I saw this at the New York State Museum today, and it reminded me of Lisa, who likes to quilt on satin. I always wondered if quilting was for bedding only, and it seems that, at least for this dress, it was used as decorative embellishment. Wish I could have gotten a better photo, but I didn’t want to use flash, given that it was delicate dyed fabric. There have got to be more out there… Off to the Google!
This dress is from the 18th century. Floral motifs in the center, mixed in with echoing and orange peel. Crosshatching on either side.
Edited to add: Um. It’s embarrassing I never googled “quilted dresses 18th century” before now. Go look! Amazing eye candy, and quilting inspiration galore.
Mandy, I would love to take that class from the giveaway. But Sorry Go GREEN 🙂