Why were Victorian era dresses so big?

I think many people has the quesiton : Why were Victorian era dresses so big?

Victorian era dresses were generally designed to be worn with layers of petticoats and underskirts, which gave them a fuller and more billowy appearance. Additionally, the fashion of the time emphasized a lady’s hourglass figure, with a small waist and fuller hips and bust. To achieve this silhouette, dresses were often cut to cinch the waist and flare outwards towards the bottom. The voluminous fabric and intricate details of Victorian dresses also created a sense of grandeur and elegance, which was considered fashionable during that period. Finally, historical fashion trends often cycle back into style today, so it’s possible that Victorian-inspired dresses have become more popular again in recent years.

The petticoats culture of Victorian fashion

During the Victorian era, petticoats were a crucial part of women’s fashion. The petticoat was a layered underskirt that gave dresses their full and billowy appearance. The number of petticoats varied depending on the wearer’s social status and the fashion of the time.

In the mid-19th century, when the Queen Victoria reigned, there was a trend towards fuller skirts and petticoats. Queen Victoria herself was known for wearing several petticoats, which were believed to be necessary for warmth and modesty. This trend towards fuller skirts and petticoats became popular with the masses and was considered fashionable.

Victorian petticoats were often made of cotton or silk and were often starched to create a stiff and formal appearance. Some petticoats were trimmed with lace or ribbon to add a decorative touch. Petticoats were worn under dresses and were secured to the waistband with hooks and eyes or buttons.

The petticoat culture during the Victorian era was also associated with modesty and decorum. Women were expected to maintain a demure and respectable demeanor while wearing petticoats. In addition, petticoats helped create the silhouette of the hourglass figure that was considered fashionable during that period.

Today, Victorian-inspired petticoats are worn as part of historical reenactments, cosplay, and fashion statements. They are often made of different materials and are designed to replicate the appearance and style of Victorian petticoats.