The Walking Dress

Victorian women wore different outfits depending on the time of day or activity. This yellow outfit with a shorter skirt and no train is likely for daytime walking and reflects the trend towards masculine-style tailored coats. Many women’s jackets featured ornamentation inspired by military uniforms, such as the tassels and buttons seen on the shoulders and bottom of the coat. The subject is also wearing a type of bowler hat with a feather decoration.

In the 1860s, boots and shoes acquired 2.5 inch heels. Women carried umbrellas as an accessory and walking aid. The subject also wears neutral coloured, close fitting gloves, which were a common outfit accessory.