The reign under Queen Victoria, 1837-1901, brought everlasting fashions that will always remain relevant for the present and future.
All of the fabrics and details we love were elaborated: lace, silk, velvet, ruffles, embroidery. Much of the reasoning behind as to why fashion grew so intricate in this period was not only due to the taste of the Queen, but also due to the innovation of the sewing machine, mechanical weaving, as a result from the Industrial Revolution.
Moving away from the prior Georgian Era, as we know to be high regal fashion, the Victorian era introduced bustles and a return to more restriction as this symbolized a higher status combined with purity. God forbid you see a women's ankles...
If you were a woman of status, you'd have an outfit for every event, yes even for breakfast. At least three changes in one day! The morning dress, required a looser fit and you can never leave the home in. An afternoon dress, more formal and appropriate for visitors or outings. An exception to the afternoon dress is a Tea Gown Dress, acceptable for visitors only if you are hosting a tea party at your house, you cannot wear a tea gown outside of your house or to anyone's other tea party only yours. Into the evening you have a gown, more elaborate and a tad revealing, say a short sleeve or not a turtleneck! All remaining dress changes depend on your status and demand of events.
But women didn't go through carrying all of that weight from the heavy layering of petticoats and crinolines for nothing, it brought us timeless and fabulous inspiration!!
Countless of Victorian references have taken over various forms of entertainment and art from runway to cinema. Briefly, let's discuss just a few of my favorite main points, otherwise I've written a novel.
Speaking in runway, past and present in 2025 and 2026 especially, has shown a large interest in dramatic ruffles in deep jewel tones, ruffled necklines or sleeves, romantic lace, embroidery, and puffed sleeves!
With all due respect, this is not just an upcoming trend, but it is timeless. So! You'll must know how to shop and style the Victorian way as a modern woman who is in the know. Your shopping guide is linked here!
More to read on my substack @skylarrayne