These gowns reflect women’s fashionable dress of the late 18th century, representing two closely related silhouettes that became increasingly popular during the later Rococo period. Both the robe à l’anglaise and the robe à la polonaiseoffered a more fitted and informal alternative to the earlier robe à la française, while still retaining decorative richness and courtly elegance.
The robe à l’anglaise is characterised by a close-fitting bodice with a defined waist and a skirt worn over structured undergarments, creating a smoother back line and a more natural silhouette. The robe à la polonaise featured a distinctive draped overskirt gathered into poufs at the back, revealing a decorative petticoat beneath. Both styles were commonly worn for formal daytime occasions, social visits, and semi-court settings, and were often paired with high-dressed hairstyles, engageantes, and elaborate accessories.
This set is consistent with fashion imagery from approximately 1770–1785, a period during which Rococo dress began to transition toward lighter construction and more natural forms prior to the emergence of late 18th-century neoclassical styles.
Credits & Details
- Creator: Acanthus Sims
- Original creator site: https://www.tumblr.com/acanthus-sims
- Era: Rococo
- Decade: 1770s-1780s
A Woman's Measure 
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