The fashions of the 19th century continue to capture the imagination, but surviving examples are often too fragile to be on display, let alone frequently handled and studied. This book offers an invaluable opportunity to explore such garments in detail, from their elaborate trimmings, refined embroidery and lavish drapery to their restrictive corseting and impeccable tailoring. Their range is broad, from early designer dresses to Indian-inspired printed cottons, and from petticoats and brightly coloured corsets to feathered capes and dramatic sleeves.