Classic Style Inspiration - Victorian Fashion

When I read the classics, one of the things that I love to read about in detail is what the characters are wearing. It helps to create an image in my mind of the characters; not only of their physical appearances but also their attitude towards clothing and style. For example, I notice if they change their outfits regularly (as society often dictated, because, heaven forbid, one should wear the same outfit twice!) or if they were comfortable with their 'uniform' of daily wear. Usually, the classics will focus more on the clothing of women, but sometimes men get a look in too. 

For this Classic Style Inspiration post, I thought we could look to some Victorian classics to inspire us. What does, or to be exact 'when' does the Victorian period actually refer to? Well, the term refers to the time that Queen Victoria ruled England, that is from 1837 to 1901. This extensive period of reign marked a number of social and cultural changes in England, Continental Europe and the US which in turn reflected the availability and evolution of fashion. During times of hardship or war (Europe was raked with revolutions during the 1840s and the US suffered during the Civil War of the 1860s) clothing became perfunctory and finances often dictated the limit to what one could wear. This in turn lent itself to creative ways for women to look stylish and au courant. I am always reminded of Meg March in Little Women when I think of this.

   ' "It isn't low-necked, and it don't sweep enough, but it will have to do. My blue house-dress looks so well, turned and freshly trimmed, that I feel as if I'd got a new one. My silk sacque isn't a bit the fashion, and my bonnet don't look like Sallie's; I didn't like to say anything, but I was dreadfully disappointed in my umbrella. I told mother black, with a white handle, but she forgot, and bought a green one, with an ugly yellowish handle. It's strong and neat, so I ought not to complain, but I know I shall feel ashamed of it beside Annie's silk one, with a gold top," sighed Meg, surveying the little umbrella with great disfavor.'

Other than Little Women (published in 1868), the nineteenth century saw many of our favourite classic novels being written and published. Here's a list to get you started:

Pride and Prejudice (1813) Jane Austen

Emma (1816) Jane Austen

Frankenstein (1818) Mary Shelley

Jane Eyre (1847) Charlotte Bronte

Wuthering Heights (1847) Emily Bronte

Madame Bovary (1857) Gustave Flaubert

Great Expectations (1861) Charles Dickens

I have chosen books that I have read which will make at least a comment on dress or appearance, but more often than not, will devote some time going over outfits and fashion. If you can add to this list, please do so in the comments below. 

In this Style Inspiration post we will be looking predominantly at fashion contemporary and popular to this period. Even so, fashion underwent a range of changes in England and abroad during this time.

In his book, "The English," Christopher Hibbert writes: 

    The high-waisted and straight-hanging style of the early years of the nineteenth century had first given way to the the much more elaborate style of the 1830s with the waists lowered and the skirts belled, then to the fashions of the 1840s with skirts, supported by masses of petticoats bunched at the waist which made the crinoline a 'physical and mechanical necessity.' The crinoline had been in full swing in the 1850s and remained in fashion, disliked though it was, until the late 1860s. But this, in turn, had given place to the flounces, polonaises and bustles of the 1870s, and, eventually, a more manageable style developed with the greater freedom and activity of late Victorian life. Leg-of-mutton sleeves, however outlasted the century, as did those long, trailing skirts which had to be held up before their wearers could move about in them. So also did corsets which even young girls wore to compress their waists.

(Note: the crinoline was a stiff, structured petticoat used to hold out a woman's skirt).

The romanticism of Victorian times is certainly a growing trend, so let's look at some photos and links to places that might inspire to take this look into your own wardrobe. The easiest way to do this, is with a long, flowing skirt and a frilly blouse. Take a look at these gorgeous pieces from Blanche's Place. 

You could easily replicate these looks with the one black or navy skirt and a small selection of blouses. 

Little Women Atelier also create gorgeous Victorian style clothing for the modern women. These are made from natural linens and cotton and are much more functional than traditional styles would have been. 

Vintage Dancer has some great tips on how to pull together a Victorian inspired outfit on a budget and works with the same formula of skirt + blouse (or fitted jacket). And with a range of skirt styles to choose from, there is something from everyone. 

As for footwear, lace-up ankle boots are definitely making a comeback and there are a number of styles for you to choose. How about some black patent ones, via Modcloth?

Or block-heeled cognac ones?

Film and screen adaptations of the classics are another great way to gain inspiration for incorporating Victorian dress into the everyday wardrobe. Have a look at these stills from the 2020 adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma. Appreciate the delicate necklaces, block colours, and lots of frills! The empire waist dress is more late eighteenth century than true Victorian era, but it is a different style that may be more to your taste. 

Spring and autumn are perfect times to incorporate some Victorian style into your wardrobe, as generally, the weather is mild. However, you may want to re-consider long, sweeping skirts if the spring rains are upon you! It may, however, be the right time to try a pretty, delicate umbrella or lace-up ankle boots. 

Be sure to leave your Classic Style Inspo ideas in the comments below!