mimic-of-modes:costumehistory:fripperiesandfobs:Robe à la française retrouss&eac
mimic-of-modes: costumehistory: fripperiesandfobs: Robe à la française retroussée ca. 1770’s From Whitaker Auctions via Live Auctioneers Robe à la française retroussée translates as “tucked robe à la française.” Robe à la française meaning “French style dress.” At first glance, this could be taken as a robe à la polonaise, however, the sacque/sack back of the gown differentiates it. I would love to see the stomacher part of this gown… the front of the outer gown looks loose and whatever is in between is covered by the fichu (neckerchief). Hmm. That is a very, very interesting garment. I’m not sure I’ve ever come across a française with no waist seam in front - outside of the early 18th century, when they were very informal, and the narrowness of the pleats (among other clues, like the fabric and the sleeves) makes this point to much later in the century. So it seems like it might be some kind of française/polonaise hybrid, with that plus the tie over the chest. Although the skirt is only tucked through the pocket slits, rather than having built-in equipment. It looks like the kerchief is being used to disguise the fact that there’s no stomacher, though. :( I would have liked to see what shape it was, too! -- source link