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History of Costume Illustrated Digital Vocabulary List CH 10
These images show a front and back view of a robe à la Française dated to around 1760-70. The robe à la Française was characterized by full box pleats in the back of the dress with a fitted front. The wide skirts were left open at the front to reveal a decorative petticoat, and were supported by hoops and paniers made of metal, whale bone, or wicker. A gown like this would have been consider more formal for full dress because of the elaborate pattern and matching gown and petticoat.
Source: http://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/159485
