Hoop skirts of the early bustle period were trimmed down considerably from the absurd diameters of the 1860s. A tight bodice and corset, contrasted with a bustled skirt, characterized the silhouette of this period. The fashions of this era reflected the notion that costume was an indication of personal success, and that corseting was a healthy means of controlling the shape of the body.

Women's activity levels were limited due to multiple layers of clothing: most dresses required at least two petticoats, along with drawers, a chemise and a corset cover. In addition to the corset, a woman endured up to 25 pounds of dress and accessories. The advent of new technologies - particularly the sewing machine (patented in American in 1848) and paper patterns (Butterick,
c. 1860) - and the emergence of the department store contributed to mass production and increased availability of fashionable clothing.

L: Silk Ottoman, silk satin trim, jet buttons. c. 1870. Museum of the Rockies Collection.
R: Brocade silk, silk satin trim, silk grosgrain, cut-steel beads. c. 1885. Courtesy of the Virginia City Collection of the Montana Heritage Commission.
L: Crinoline with bustle. Cotton twill tape, wire. c. 1870. Museum of the Rockies Collection.
R: Coil bustle. Cotton muslin, wire. c. 1885. Courtesy of the Virginia City Collection of the Montana Heritage Commission.
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