Spanish Fashions – 1870

1870s Bustle Era Gowns from La Moda Elegante Ilustrada

This authentic 1870s hand-colored fashion plate originates from Madrid’s renowned style periodical, La Moda Elegante Ilustrada, published at Carretas 12. The antique engraving captures two elegant women showcasing high-society indoor attire within a refined Victorian parlor setting. Illustrating the iconic early bustle era (tournure) silhouette, this rare print beautifully documents the transition toward heavily draped skirts, complex trimmings, and structured corsetry that dominated European dressmaking during this historical decade.

Victorian Interior Fashion, Silk Taffeta, and Parlor Leisure

The historical illustration depicts a seated lady reading while wearing an ornate, dark brocade day dress featuring intricate lace cuffs, paired with a small floral bonnet and a delicate interior parasol. Standing beside her, the second figure models a striking turquoise silk taffeta gown designed with a fitted buttoned bodice, contrasting dark blue velvet piping, and a voluminous ruffled overskirt. Surrounded by period-specific decor like hanging floral planters and an elegant vase arrangement, this collectible print offers rich visual data for historic textile researchers.