Vanity Fair - 19th Century Fashion at Chertsey Museum

Chertsey Museum's new exhibition, Vanity Fair, traces the history of fashion in the 19th century and its many different styles of dress.

The display from the Olive Matthew Collection includes exceptional examples throughout the decades ranging from the simple and classically inspired soft muslin empire-line dresses to high Victorian garments made in heavy silk satins.

Dress in the 19th century would not have been complete without a whole myriad of accessories and accoutrements. Crinolines and bustles which gave that distinct shape to women's dres; silk and leather footwear, heavily embroidered shawls, bonnets, gloves and bags can all be seen in the exhibition. Beautiful examples of men's dress are also included with luxurious waistcoats and a superb frock coat.