Portuguese fashion in the early 19th century

Abstract

This article analyzes the elements that compose the clothing of noble ladies of the Portuguese court in the early years of the 19th century, approaching their connections with the fashion used in other European courts. In this context, the arising and circulation of the silhouette will be explored, characterized, in general, by light pieces made with delicate fabrics, straight cut, high waist, low neckline, short puffed sleeves, rich embroidery and trains. The investigative focus will be concentrated on some pieces that are part of the collection of the National Costume Museum in Lisbon. Throughout its permanent exhibition and technical reserve, the Museum brings together a collection of historical clothing, from the 18th century until the present day. There you can see collections of civil clothing, from Portugal and other countries, as well as accessories, fragments of fabrics, materials and equipment that testify to the production processes of textiles, costumes and accessories. This way, it will be possible to understand which elements set thef Portuguese women's taste, defining what was fashionable in Portugal at the beginning of the 19th century.