Rules of Victorian Dressing

The Victorian Era people were VERY strict about dressing. These people did not play games. 

One mistake and you were out. 

Depending on the time of the day, the season, and so much more, the rules varied! It might sound complicated, but it’s the same thing we do now. We dress differently with friends, at work, and on special occasions. 

So today, I’ll show you some wonderful types of dress and where, how and when they were worn!

The Sacque

Although a Victorian Lady has to be modest and decent at all times, she still was allowed to have her privacy. The Sacque was a robe that fell loose on the body, but it didn’t offer the ideal covering for the time. 

It was meant to be worn in the bed chambers, while breakfasting in bed and when doing the morning toilette. A Lady couldn’t greet visitors with this, it would be scandalous!

The Wrapper

A better, more modest, but still comfortable option was the Wrapper. 

The Wrapper was exactly that; a loose beautiful gown meant for the early hours. The good thing about this gown was that it was decent enough to cover a Lady up, so if any unexpected visitors popped up, she could welcome them without any issues!

Of course, a corset should be worn underneath. Remember, a corset was like a bra for people back then! Most of us, wouldn’t greet visitors without a bra!

Although it wasn’t the most perfect appearance, it did the job well enough!

Visiting Toilette

During the late morning and afternoon, visitors were expected. When going to see friends or extended family, this type of gown is expected to be worn. A bonnet needs to be worn at all times during the visit! 

Hats, of course, were still mandatory during the era, but a bonnet for these occasions would suffice. 

Beach Outfits

Although expected, I was still surprised by it! Nowadays, a walk by the beach can show us the exact opposite of this picture. 

Despite its restrictive appearance, the fabric was ideal for withstanding the damp wind and the seawater. Hats, once again, were a must! 

Popular colors included blue, red, and white, but you could find them in a variety of colors! Needless to say, there was no swimming happening there

Wedding Gowns

And finally, the most anticipated one!

Before the 1840’s, women would wear whatever color dress they’d like, there were no limits. But after Queen Victorian’s wedding, white was suddenly everywhere!

One bad (or good, depending on how you see it) about that era is that royalty ruled fashion. They said what’s in and people followed it. A lot of the time, their word was law in that sense. 

After the 1840s, every woman of status would wear a white gown, with a high neck and long sleeves. Commoners would use any formal, presentable dress they had, regardless of the color. But that doesn’t mean it’d be appropriate for higher society!

What do you think, my sweeties?

I find myself to be loving the look of the dresses, but I hate how restrictive and forced everything was! Some freedom would be perfect 😀

-Written by Olivia Bennet