num_pages: 182
description: To the Victorian eye, first appearances and the way one was dressed made a lasting impression, and proper ladies of that era wanted very much to leave a positive lasting first impression. Women paid attention to the details of their attire and their accessories, for one mistake could lead to social ostracism. As a member of the aristocratic Todd family, Mary Lincoln was able to adhere to the latest fashions made from the finest fabrics. As a young woman, Mary was one of the belles in Lexington, Kentucky and in Springfield, Illinois, then a bustling frontier town. She was a member of the social plan where ladies were concerned about the width of their ribbons, the length of their skirts, and the latest Parisian fashions. Even in widowhood, Mary kept abreast of the latest fashions. Mary Lincoln enjoyed shopping. For her it was almost an art form. But other than a few gowns which became famous because she wore them for photo sittings, little is said about Mary's choice of dress. How did they relate to the fashion of the era? Did she dress like other Washington women of society? Where her dresses outstanding because they were different and more elaborate than anyone else's? And what is discovered about Mary's personality by examining her wardrobe? Fashionable First The Victorian Wardrobe of Mary Lincoln answers these questions and more. Each of Mary's known costumes is examined. When available, detailed information such as the width of a sleeve and the color of piping is given. In addition to information about Mary's gowns is information about 19th century fashion, mourning attire, and photographs of Mary's fashion choices. Information about White House social functions and stories about the Lincoln's entertaining helps the reader gain new insights into Mary's personality and understand her fashion choices.
language: English
title: Fashionable First Lady: The Victorian Wardrobe of Mary Lincoln
publisher: Lincoln Presentations