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. Orange peel mixed in with floral motifs, and crosshatching.](https://i0.wp.com/mandalei.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/QuiltyDress-225x300.jpg?resize=225%2C300)
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 🙂