CRINOLINES Meaning and
Definition
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Crinolines refer to a type of women's undergarment worn in the 19th century. Specifically, a crinoline is a large, stiffened hoop skirt made from a framework of metal or horsehair covered with fabric. The purpose of a crinoline was to create a bell-shaped silhouette, with the skirt flaring outwards from the waist, emphasizing a woman's waistline and exaggerating her hips. It was a defining fashion trend during the Victorian era.
Originally, crinolines were made using horsehair, hence the name derived from the French word "crin," meaning horsehair. However, as the style became more popular, the method of production evolved, and the framework began to be constructed using lightweight metal, allowing for a lighter and more easily maneuverable garment. Crinolines were typically worn beneath voluminous skirts and dresses and were often decorated with lace, ribbons, or other embellishments.
While crinolines were fashionable and considered a symbol of femininity and status during the 19th century, they also had practical functions. The wide hoop structure helped to keep heavy layers of skirts away from the legs, preventing them from becoming soiled while walking or sitting. However, their size and rigidity could also pose challenges in tight spaces or when navigating through doorways.
By the late 19th century, the popularity of crinolines began to decline, eventually being replaced by the bustle as the preferred fashion of enhancing the rear of women's dresses. Nowadays, crinolines are primarily seen as historical artifacts or occasionally replicated in vintage or period films.
Common Misspellings for CRINOLINES
Etymology of CRINOLINES
The word "crinolines" originates from the French word "crinoline", which is a combination of "crin" meaning "horsehair" and "linge" meaning "linen" or "cloth". The term was first used in the mid-19th century to describe a women's petticoat or skirt made of stiff material, often supported by a framework of hoops or horsehair, in order to achieve a desired bell-shaped silhouette. The name "crinoline" reflects the use of horsehair in the garment's construction.
Similar spelling words for CRINOLINES
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