Late 18th Century: 1775-1795This fashion era is known for the angular mantua made famous by the court of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette of France. The American Revolution, the rise of Republicanism, and the French Revolution prompted changes in Western society and fashion as the elaborate court dresses were abandoned for a more simple style.
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Regency: 1795-1820
The Regency Era was known for its stark contrast to the 18th Century. With a Greek revival, statuesque dress of lightweight fabric in white or cream were the popular fashions of the time. By the 1820, the neoclassical fashions had fallen out of favor and colors returned to the fashions as well as a new interest in military ornamentation.
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Romantic: 1821-1836
Skirt shapes remained in the "a-line" style, with the most change noticeable in the colors and fabric worn as well as the voluminous sleeves that are indicative of Romantic Era fashion. The gigot sleeve grew larger and larger throughout the late 1820s and early 1830s. At the height of the fashionably large sleeves, padding and extra fabric was required for the sleeves to maintain their shape.
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Victorian: 1837-1901
The Victorian Era was a time of great changes in fashion trends. In the 1830s and 1840s dresses varied little but in 1856 with the creation of the cage crinoline, skirts grew to massive proportions. After skirts diminished, the bustle took over, as the early and late bustles eras. At the end of the 19th Century, dressed began to be available in separates with the growth of ready-made clothing.
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Early 20th Century: 1901-1914Fashion silhouettes and trends become more recognizable in the early years of the 20th Century. Cylindrical shapes were the most popular especially with haute couture designer, who were the masters of fashion in this era. An emphasis on beading and lace makes this era a favorite with fashion enthusiasts, especially with its relation to "Titanic" fashion.
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British Monarchs and Fashion Eras
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