The Romantic Style | 1825-1840

Following the simplicity of the ‘empire’ style of dress we enter the ‘romantic’ style (from about 1825). The main principals of the silhouette for women were:

➡️The ‘empire line’ under the bust lowered to a more ‘natural’ position

➡️The skirt became fuller in a bell-shape

➡️Corsets were re-introduced to provide a smaller waist

➡️The length of the skirt was shortened to the ankle

➡️The balloon like gigot sleeve (or leg of mutton) grew larger and larger during the romantic period

The whole look was complimented with elaborate hairstyles, humongous hats, embroidered stockings and elegant shawls. Cotton fabric was popular for day dresses, and in the evening satins and silks were worn.

The overall ‘romantic’ look demanded that the ideal woman look delicate and melancholic. Much influence was borrowed from 15th and 16th century fashion.