poke bonnet
A nineteenth-century women’s hat that featured a large brim which extended beyond the wearer’s face.
Category: B
cuirass bodice
A form-fitting, long-waisted, boned bodice worn in the 1870s and 1880s–almost gives the appearance of armor as the name suggests.
bum roll
A roll of padding tied around the hip line to hold a woman’s skirt out from the body in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
busk
A flat length stay piece that was inserted into the front of a corset to keep it stiff from the 16th century to the early 20th century.
pillow/bobbin lace
Textile lace made by braiding and twisting thread on a pillow.
bustle
A pad or frame worn under a skirt puffing it out behind.
bloomers
Bloomers are a bifurcated garment that were worn under dresses in the 19th century. They soon became a symbol of women’s rights because early activist Amelia Bloomer wore drawers long enough to stick out from under her dress.
Wellington boot
A popular and practical knee- or calf-length boot worn in the 19th century.
beadnet dress
A decorative sheath dress made of beads worn in ancient Egypt.
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