Collar

Art Historical Context

Step back to 1840s America with this charming cotton collar, a subtle yet telling artifact from the Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. around 1842 by an unknown, it exemplifies everyday fashion during the early Victorian era, when detachable collars were a staple women’s attire. These accessories added elegance and modesty to high-necked dresses, allowing for quick changes to keep outfits fresh amid the era’s emphasis on propriety and practicality. Crafted from cotton—a widely accessible and versatile fiber in 19th-century America—this collar highlights the democratic nature...