Natural Form

In 1877 the bustle had shrunken to the point where just pads were used or in most cases absolutely nothing at all. The bodices became long and even extended over the hips. 

Princess dresses became extremely popular. This is a one piece dress that doesn't have a waist seam. This gives the illusion of being tall and slim which became a popular figure. Skirts clung to the legs with a string inside to tie the skirt close to the legs at the front but allow the back to be free falling.

Over skirts became less popular and were soon completely removed, this is due to the skirt detailing now being sewn directly onto the dress. Skirts were full of textures, colours and were occasionally seen asymmetrical while the bodices were left very simple. Flowers and bows were placed to hide the tacking of details on the skirts.

Evening dresses are now rising back up onto the shoulders and usually catered to slim sleeves, puffed sleeves or lace layers.

Necklines on day wear were either high with a collar or a small V which was usually filled in with a chimsette. 

Fan skirts were introduced in 1879. Fan skirts are seen on dresses where skirts end at or around the knee and then a fan skirt is underneath. By 1880 skirts became thinner and trains soon disappeared and would only make an occasional appearance in evening wear.