The hourglass silhouette was formed by a tightly corseted waist secured between a full bodice and flared skirt. The bustle was reduced to a remnant of its former self, usually not more than a small pad. This reduction - along with exaggerated fashion elements like the leg-o-mutton sleeve (c. 1895) - was an example of the extreme swings of the fashion pendulum. Machine-made lace, now readily available, was typical, as were high collars and sleeves snug to the wrist.

The introduction of the knit vest - worn under the corset - and the corset cover-drawer combination simplified underwear at the waist to accommodate the smooth-hip silhouette. Organizations like the National American Woman Suffrage Association championed women's rights more than ever. Tailor-made suits, historically reserved for men, became popular as a practical costume suited to a more active life. Additionally, there was new enthusiasm for sports, particularly bicycling. The need for bloomers and a divided skirt ushered in fashion freedoms until then unknown to most women.

L: Jacquard silk, silk taffeta, lace, silk velvet. c. 1893. Museum of the Rockies Collection.
M: Basket weave worsted wool, wool felt, etched mother-of-pearl buttons; silk faille. c. 1895. Museum of the Rockies Collection.
R: Silk grosgrain, ivory lace, mother-of-pearl and metal buttons. c. 1897. Museum of the Rockies Collection.
L: Bustle pad. Cotton. c. 1903. Museum of the Rockies Collection.
M: Armorside Corset. Cotton, featherbone stays, metal busk, cotton lace, silk ribbon. c. 1890. Courtesy of the Virginia City Collection of the Montana Heritage Commission.
R: Corset Cover. Cotton batiste, Valenciennes lace. c. 1890. Museum of the Rockies Collection.
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