American Fashions – 1894

Analyzing the heavy tailoring and urban outerwear trends of November 1894

Showcasing a shift toward functional yet opulent winter wear, this authentic late-Victorian lithograph highlights the architectural garments favored by wealthy women for cold-weather city travel. The transatlantic collaboration between Henry Petit in Paris and the A. McDowell publication office on West 14th Street in Manhattan delivered a layout centered on heavy, wind-resistant wools, high structured collars, and sharp outerwear geometry that balanced feminine lines with masculine tailoring influences.

Detailed breakdown of the velvet paneling and dramatic gigot sleeve volume

The visual composition relies on deep, saturated seasonal jewel tones to command attention. The left model wears a rich royal blue promenade suit featuring a sweeping asymmetrical overskirt and an unlined coat with massive scalloped brocade lapels. Standing on the right, the second figure exhibits a dual-toned plum and lavender walking dress accented by a bright mustard-yellow vest insert, wide continuous rows of dark floral gimp trimming along the skirt panels, and an elegant velvet bonnet adorned with upright bird plumes.

Credit: The Claremont Colleges