dress

A short spencer jacket in eau de nil silk velvet with matching satin trim, worn with a matching dress comprising a separate bodice and skirt. It has a high neck, a high collar shaped in points, and long, tight-fitting sleeves. It is designed to be worn over the loosely structured empire gowns of the 1810s, and its short length would have emphasised their extremely high waists, helping to create the fashionable silhouette. The upper sleeves have puffed ornamental trimmings (mancherons) featuring deep triangular edges known as Vandyke points. The cuffs and many of the seams have satin piped edges, while the bodice is adorned with petal-shaped fabric embellishments and chenille tassels. In addition to the separate belt, the jacket has several fastenings, including a large metal hook and eye and two thick silk eau de nil cords to tie it at the waist.