Regency style, prevalent in Great Britain during the early decades of the 19th century, was inspired by ancient Greek and Roman sculpture and emphasized the natural figure over the enhancement of shape. It favored a straight silhouette, a high waistline, and lightweight fabrics. In contrast, Victorian style, corresponding closely with Victoriaβs reign as queen of England (1837β1901), embraced structure. Women wore tightly laced corsets, layered petticoats or crinolines, and voluminous skirts, creating a tightly controlled hourglass silhouette with a cinched waist and full skirt. Whereas Regency garments were understated in decoration, Victorian clothing was richly trimmed, used heavier fabrics, and had more rigid tailoring.
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