Fashion in the Late 19th Century
Fashion in the late 19th Century focused on modesty and durability. Items such as corsets, dress forms, and undergarments were important parts of the daily wardrobe for everyone, especially the wealthy and elite. Corsets were even advertised for children. Outer garments featured complex embroidery, ruffles, and decoration, while undergarments were plain and functional. Fashion was often advertised in magazines and through mail-order catalogs.
Ball's Health Preserving Corset
This ad featured in the June 1881 issue of Demorest's Family Magazine showcases a corset. Corsets were common undergarments in the late 19th Century, and this one includes physician approval. Sometimes corsets could be too restrictive or tight leading to health problems, but Ball's corset claims to be safe and healthy. Sold out of Chicago, IL, every corset also came with a warranty for satisfaction guaranteed.
Dress Reform
This innovative undergarment was advertised by Mrs. C.D. Newell of Chicago, IL in the March 1889 issue of Demorest's Family Magazine. Boasting support of the breasts, shoulders, and skirt, women could wear it with or without a corset. Bras were still uncommon for daily wear, the modern version having been reinvented in 1869. This item was also size-inclusive, stating that "fleshy ladies" find them comfortable.
Night Robe
This ad for a night robe was featured in the April 1897 issue of Demorest's Family Magazine. Made from muslin by the H.C.F. Koch & Co., it would have been breathable, durable, and soft -- perfect for daily use. With fanciful embroidery, beading, and ruffles it was a fashionable item even for nighttime and around-the-house wear.
Dr. Warner's Health Underwear
This ad for Dr. Warner's Camels Hair Health Underwear, featured in the December 1888 issue of Demorest's Family Magazine, was sold by the Warner Bros. on Broadway in NYC. Undergarments were considered a sign of status, wealth, and modesty, keeping the body warm and protecting outer garments from becoming soiled in a time when people did not change or wash their clothes every day. Laundry machines were still manually operated in the late 1800s.
