An example of early Victorian fashion, this dress would have been worn over a tight fitting corset and multiple layers of petticoats. The touch of white broderie anglaise round its collar, suggests it was worn in the later stages of the mourning period.

The fabric of this one piece dress was woven using blue and red thread, creating a 'shot' purple effect. The neckline of the dress is trimmed with a cream broderie anglaise collar. A braided black sash hangs around the waist of the dress.

In Victorian times, grieving the death of a family member or friend was reflected in the colour of attire worn. Traditional black gave way to deep purple in the later stages of the mourning process.