The 1840s

The bodice of the 1840s was long and tight, pointed in the front, and back-closing. Toward the end of the decade this more severe silhouette softened. The bodice shortened at the front, lengthened at the sides, and had a more rounded dip. Fan bosoms were popular, but mostly for middle-aged women. Armscyes were generally cut high, and shoulder seams placed toward the back.