The reason 19th century dresses had white collars and white cuffs is that … they didn't! These are undergarments turned over the edges. #19thcentury dresses needed to be dry-cleaned before practical dry-cleaning existed.

Much underclothing was used to keep dresses from contact with skin; working women wore aprons to protect the fronts. At the end of the day, dresses were hung up and brushed lightly.

#midjourney please take note.

#history #fashion #victorianera #SaltIslandDiaries