Historical information
In the early 19th century, infant baptismal gowns were modelled on dresses worn by adult women. Gowns were typically made of fine white linen or cotton, and often trimmed with tucks, lace, whitework embroidery, and other handwork. The Kew Historical Society's collection includes over fifteen christening gowns dating from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Physical description
A sturdy white cotton christening gown that confirms to a number of conventional design rules. These include pleating on the bodice and at the front of the skirt. The width of the pleats below the waist would indicate a later rather than earlier manufacture. Lace is used in a vertical band at centre front, on the neck and at the waist.
