Offered for your consideration is a late-18th century gown ensemble styled after the outfit worn by Martha Washington portrayed in a family portrait from the year 1796. This lovely outfit is a classic late-period American style, ideal for portraying our first First Lady. It is a stylish, late 18th century two-piece ensemble consisting of overgown and petticoat. The gown has a pointed front and back waistline and full skirt. The dress bodice has a low, round neckline edged with self-fabric ruching. Sleeves are elbow-length and have a small self-fabric ruffle at the wrist edge. The gown fastens with a laced placket in the center front. The gown skirt opens in front and is trimmed with self-fabric ruching along the front edges. The matching petticoat has ruffles of self-fabric trim along the hemline. Please note, the printed fabric shown in the picture is not available, and is shown to indicate that the petticoat as a separate item of clothing - the 2-piece ensemble outfit is only made of solid-color fabric: medium-weight cotton for an informal day wear (washable), or like the original in the portrait, a solid-color satin (dry clean only). Please state 1st, 2nd & 3 rd color choices (the original gown in the portrait is silvery white satin). The Godwin’s gown does not necessitate wearing a corset and uses subtle modern seamlines for the wearer’s comfort. To Pannier or not to Panier? Although there is no actual evidence that Martha would have worn side-hoops, and by the 1790’s, they would in fact have been quite out of fashion, Godwin’s Mrs. Washington’s Gown may be ordered in two style variations: 1. Round Gown - without allowance for any ‘understructure’- that is, a plain, full skirt; 2. Pannier length - for wear over side hoops/panniers (order seperately- not included with outfit) Prices start at $556.00.
