Girls dresses have gone through many transformations throughout history. They have often reflected the feelings and thoughts of the times. Hundreds of years ago, children were not considered innocent babes. Rather they were viewed as miniature adults, and as such, were dressed like adults. Uncomfortable miniature versions of adult clothing, or tight fitting, swaddling clothing meant to confine children so adults could work were the norm during the 1400s and even well into the 18th century.
By the 18th century, however, it was believed that children were indeed not like adults, and full of sinful thoughts and desires. Instead, it was believed that children were innocent and creatures of nature. Outdoor play was encouraged and the empire dress was born. With girls dresses in empire styles, little girls and big alike were able to run and play will still retaining some form of modesty. In fact, the empire style is still a very popular style of dress even today.
The Victorian era's elaborate style of clothing was ushered in by the 19th century. The increased affluence of the middle classes meant they could afford more options when it came to fancy dresses. Thus came the uncomfortable finery in girl's dresses. Tight bodices with corsets, leg o' mutton sleeves or gigots, and lots of crinolines were popular during this time.
Although beautiful, girls dresses in the Victorian era were difficult to live and play in. Early women's rights pioneers railed against this senselessness, and as a result, bloomers were introduced by Amelia Bloomer. Bloomer, the predecessor to pants, remains a popular addition to dresses today.
Eventually, in the mid to late 19th century, the formality of the Victorian era gave way to a more relaxed era of fashion. Bodices over slips, and with ruffles at the skirt were popular as were drop waist girls dresses. Drop waist dresses often featured wide sashes and square collars. These dresses are popular dresses today for special occasions.
Around the beginning of the 20th century, the classic in girls dresses, the yoke dress, became popular. Yoke dresses featured fitted shoulders and sleeves but flowed from the chest down to usually just above the knee in a loose skirt. This style enabled dresses to remain comfortable so girls could run and jump and play without being restricted by their clothing. Although modified, the yoke dress is the model for most dresses designed for play even today.
Special occasion dresses of the era often featured drop waist cotton dresses with skirts above the knees. Tiny pleats and embroidery on the skirts were popular as were big bows in the hair and Mary Jane shoes to complete the look.
Flapper dresses as well as shirtwaist girl's dresses became popular about this time too. These tunic dresses were comfortable for girls. Embellishments such as beads enabled these styles to be dressed up for special occasions. Rompers or bloomer dresses also came out around this period of time. These were short styles as well, with bloomers underneath for modesty.
Many of these styles of dresses are still evident today, although often modified to reflect today's tastes and trends. Many times embellishments such as beads, sparkles, bows, or ribbons are added. Bright colors, multiple colors or pastels all offer a way to modify dress styles to fit the demand.
Accessories such as purses, jewelry, hats, gloves, bows and the like can do much to add personality to dresses. Such additions can also allow girls dresses to reflect the individual style of the wearer while encouraging her creativity and playfulness.
Andy West is a writer on a variety of topics, including fashion history. For some really unique girls dresses, Room Seven is a label to look for.
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