Spinning the Web > Clothing & products

Throughout the 18th century the demand for cotton had been growing thanks to the popularity of the Indian printed cotton and chintz fabrics imported by the East India Company; despite a ban in 1721 because of the damaging competition to the English woollen and silk industries. Popular demand ensured that this ban did not last and the inventions of the water frame, spinning jenny and Crompton's mule ensured the rapid growth and production of the cotton industry. Fabrics and fashions were now within the reach of ordinary folk.

Then, as now in the 21st century, female fashion was at the top of the agenda. Between the beginning of the Industrial Revolution during the 1770s and the decline of the cotton industry in the 1940s there were three main innovative fashion eras:
" 1780s - 1820s characterised by the simple high waisted 'Empire' line dress
" 1820s - 1850s characterised by tight bodices, small waists and large skirts
" 1920s - 1940s characterised by rising hemlines, freedom to move and elegance

Fashions don't change overnight. There is always overlap so the dates given for certain styles are approximate; although of course there are certain definite times for the introduction of new items of clothing. Also included in this section is underwear for girls and women; a subject often overshadowed by outer wear. As one Victorian writer put it 'underwear may be defined as garments not destined for a public career'.

GG

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Associated Images

Related Narratives	Womens wear 1780s-1940s