The dress illustrates a fashion trend from the 1860s with a wide silhouette and distinct sleeves. Skirts reached their absolute largest circumference with diameters of up to four feet. This was achieved by the cage crinoline, a lightweight hooped undergarment that eliminated the need for heavy, layered petticoats. Daytime bodices featured a variety of sleeves, often long, and waistlines moved upwards. Corsets were not tight-laced during this period, as wide skirts made waists look small by comparison.