Heavy Taffeta Visiting or Calling Gown This is the classic, basic bodice of the Civil War Era, with its round waistline, and jewel neckline. It is fully lined with white cotton and piped at the neck, shoulder and armholes as well as at the bottom of the bodice. It is boned in the front darts, sides and center back. It closes at the center front with 10 small shell buttons. Their irridescents reflects the gentle light smoke, blue-gray color of the fabric.

The pagoda sleeves are split for added interest and enables the wearer to show off her beautiful undersleeves.

The ribbon treatment is another example of how using different trim can completely change the appearance of a gown. The fuchsia color of the ribbon demonstrates one of the exciting new colors that the discovery of aniline dyes made possible.