Pocket, 1790-1820

Summary

Until the early 19th century, pockets weren't sewn into women's gowns. Pockets were separate, tied around a lady's waist where they would hang between her skirt and her petticoat. The wearer put her hand through a slit in her skirt's side seam to reach into her pocket. Pockets weren't meant to be seen -- yet they were often embellished with textiles or embroidery.

Until the early 19th century, pockets weren't sewn into women's gowns. Pockets were separate, tied around a lady's waist where they would hang between her skirt and her petticoat. The wearer put her hand through a slit in her skirt's side seam to reach into her pocket. Pockets weren't meant to be seen -- yet they were often embellished with textiles or embroidery.

Artifact

Pocket (Costume accessory)

Date Made

1790-1820

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2001.0.58.79

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Satin

Technique

Hand sewing
Quilting

Color

Aqua (Color)

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