The weight of the crinoline and the…
1852 CE to 1863 CE
The weight of the crinoline and the petticoats has become intolerable by 1856, when the cage crinoline is invented.
This is a flexible steel framework joined by tapes and having no covering fabric.
The wide, bell-shaped skirt contrasts with tiny corseted waists.
Very similar to the earlier farthingale in form and function, the cage crinoline takes the Romantics' isolation of the saintly maiden to its extreme, by making her unapproachable.
Sold at two shillings and sixpence, it is immensely popular and worn by most classes of society, at least for Sunday dress.
In the late 1850s and early 1860s, the cage crinoline becomes so popular that it is worn by ladies' maids and factory girls as well as by the rich.
It becomes the target for cartoonists, who take full advantage of all possible ludicrous situations; but this in no way lessens its popularity.
