In the 1850's the shape of the skirt begins to change to a "bell" shape.
The skirts becomes larger in circumference. In the first half of the decade the skirts
were plumped up by the addition of multiple petticoats...sometimes 10 to 12 petticoats.
In 1856 the hoop cage was patented and became instantly popular.
Imagine how light and airy your garment would feel wearing a hoop
with only one or two petticoats instead of 10!
The waistline rises dramatically from the 1840's and is at or above the waist.
The sleeves become large and roomy and still retain the drop shoulder.
Undersleeves grow to an enormous size.
Large collars and fichus are popular and the overall look is very feminine.
Hair is rolled or softly pulled back and bonnets are round in shape, decorated in
a circular pattern to frame the face.
