Afternoon dress 1874 - 1875

"Afternoon Dress" (1874-1875) by M. Switzer is a striking example of late 19th-century women's fashion. The dress, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features a fitted bodice with a high neckline and long sleeves, paired with a full, flowing skirt. The fabric, a rich brown silk with intricate details, creates a sense of elegance and refinement. This garment reflects the evolving styles of the era, showcasing the transition from the more elaborate and restrictive fashions of the earlier Victorian period to the more streamlined and practical styles of the late 19th century.