What Did People Wear in the 1800s in London?

By Robert Palmer

London in the 1800s was a time of great change and innovation. The city was rapidly expanding, and with it came new styles of clothing that reflected the changing times.

One of the most prominent styles of clothing during this period was the Regency era fashion. This style was characterized by high-waisted dresses for women and coats with tails for men. The fabrics used were often light and flowing, such as muslin or silk.

Women’s clothing during this era typically included a long, flowing dress with a high waistline that was just below the bust. These dresses were often made from lightweight materials like muslin, cotton or silk. They were designed to be comfortable to wear in hot weather, while still being stylish and fashionable.

The dresses were typically decorated with intricate embroidery or lace trimmings, and they often featured puffed sleeves or ruffled cuffs. Women also wore bonnets on their heads to protect them from the sun.

For men, the Regency era saw the rise of tailcoats and top hats. These coats had long tails that reached down to the back of their knees, while their trousers were usually tight-fitting and made from wool or linen.

Men also wore waistcoats underneath their coats, which were often brightly colored and made from luxurious fabrics such as silk or velvet. Top hats became an essential accessory during this time period – they were worn by all men regardless of social class.

As we move into the Victorian era, women’s fashion continued to evolve. The crinoline skirt became popular – this was a bell-shaped skirt that was supported by a stiff frame made from horsehair or steel wires.

Victorian fashion also saw an increase in corsets, which were used to create an hourglass shape for women’s bodies. These corsets could be quite uncomfortable to wear as they would restrict breathing and movement but it became necessary for women to wear them in order to fit into the fashionable clothing of the time.

Men’s fashion also saw a shift during this era. The frock coat became popular, which was a shorter version of the tailcoat that had been worn during the Regency era. This coat was often made from wool, and it had a shorter tail that only reached down to the back of the thighs.

Trousers were still tight-fitting, but they were now made from heavier fabrics like tweed or corduroy. Men also wore cravats or neckties with their outfits, which were often brightly colored and patterned.

In conclusion, London in the 1800s saw a great deal of change in fashion. The Regency era brought high-waisted dresses for women and coats with tails for men while the Victorian era saw an increase in corsets for women and frock coats for men. No matter what era it was, fashion remained important to all classes in London during this time period.