Morning and Evening Dresses – Winter 1818

Regency Fashion Plate of Morning and Evening Dresses from 1818

This historical fashion plate from December 1818 illustrates the distinct styles of female attire during the British Regency era. Published by Dean and Munday, the hand-colored engraving depicts two women showcasing contrasting seasonal garments against a minimalist background. The sophisticated silhouettes and high-waisted designs capture the precise sartorial transition toward the late Regency period, making it a valuable visual resource for historical costume analysis.

Detailed Comparison of Early 19th Century Mourning Attire

The print highlights a clear distinction between a daytime morning habit and a formal evening gown, both rendered in somber tones indicative of contemporary mourning customs. On the left, a standing figure wears a dark, long-sleeved pelisse with a stiff high ruff and a matching bonnet. Seated on the right, the second figure models a short-sleeved dress with puffed shoulders, deep lace trimmings, long opera gloves, and an elaborate updo.