How did frontier women dress?
The American frontier period spanned from after the Revolutionary War throughout the 19th century. When the newly-formed American nation acquired the lands west of the Appalachian Mountains, a sense of adventure and hope for opportunity compelled the people to move west. The women’s clothes reflected the harsh conditions, availability of materials and the social mores of the time.Fabrics and PatternsThe fabrics appropriate for daily chores were natural cottons, while women reserved the dressier silk, satin and velvet for social gatherings. Florals, paisley and stripes were popular patterns. In addition, solids in many colors also suited the female population.General AppearanceThe dress’s bodice extended below the waistline and the sleeves fit tightly around the arm with a little bit of fullness at the shoulder. The collar stood up straight or was ruffled around the neck.Evening WearThe women sported a lower neckline for evening wear. Usually the skirts had trains. There was lots of dra
