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  Era: Rococo, 1780-1790
Style: #F-10, French-Robe a'la Francaise
* Retail Price: $2,800

   
 

Character:
Charlotte Grenville (1754-1832) was the eldest daughter of George Grenville. She married Sir Watkin Williams Wynn 4th Baronet in 1771. She was no stranger to aristocratic society as she was born into it, as well as married into it, to one of the wealthiest men in Wales of this time.

She was never seen wearing anything but spectacular and fashionable gowns. Besides her children, her only pastime was engaging with her social circles, attending parties and events with her husband.

Description:
This gown was inspired by her husband's suit for this particular event. The iridescent sage taffeta has embroidered chenille flowers which have been cut out and applied as custom treatment for the Rococo cuffs. Gold beaded lace, which came from India, borders the petticoat skirt, contours the over skirt, formulates the lace cuffs, covers the stomacher, and even fashions the muff (shown under accessories). This lace is quite special and a bit rare for this time, but her husband, just completing the "Grand Tour" for the third time, was obviously thinking of his wife.

Bronze colored silk taffeta is used to create the ruffles outlining the lace and the beautiful pleated fan collar around the neckline. For the final touches, matching grosgrain bows are added to the usual points of interest. The headpiece harbors an amethyst feather to match the color of her husband's suit and the muff, with its secret pocket and amethyst lining, was created as a secondary purse for warmth while traveling to and from the event.

* The retail price for replication includes the base price of the dress and all extras shown in photo.  This costume is available for "Rental" at Behind the Scenes Costume shop, info under links.

 

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