1859 Elisabeth in Bayern, Kaiserin von Österreich by Franz Hanfstaengl

The outer layer of Empress Elisabeth's dress in this photograph is made of gauzy, "see through," material. Her skirt does not appear to be supported by hoops.

This looks like a pre-cage crinoline dress using flounces and petticoats to obtain fullness. The fan bodice was popular throughout the crinoline era. Her sleeves are wonderfully complex.

Keywords:  1859, Hanfstaengl, Elisabeth of Bavaria, Sissi, Sisi, Wittelsbach family, Habsburg family, Empress, Austrian, straight coiffure, round neckline, long close sleeves, ruffles, vee waistline, bows, full skirt, flounces


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