Ball Dress – Spring 1810

Georgian High Regency Full Dress and Circassian Overgarment Technique

This authentic March 1810 copperplate engraving from Rudolph Ackermann’s London publication “The Repository of Arts” demonstrates the neoclassical fashion parameters of the Georgian high society. The model features a classical square-bosom underdress crafted from plain white gossamer satin, enveloped by a distinctive brown silk net Circassian robe whose fine mesh layout terminates in meticulously placed gold or white beads and matching tassel decorations.

Classical Grecian Hair Ornaments and Historical Upper Arm Jewelry

The historical evening costume is styled with short French kid gloves paired with sophisticated armlet jewelry positioned high above the elbow joints. Emphasizing the prevalent antiquarian taste of the early nineteenth century, the figure displays a clean pearl coiffure arrangement designated as “à la Diana” accompanied by dark bead necklaces and white satin footwear featuring ornamental metallic clasps.

Credit: The Claremont Colleges