General Trends:
* Simpler Styles: Children's clothes tended to be simpler in cut than adult garments, often with looser, more comfortable fits.
* Natural Fabrics: Cotton, linen, and wool were the most common materials, especially for the lower classes. Wealthier families might also use silk and velvet.
* Practicality Over Fashion: Children's clothing was primarily designed for practicality and durability, rather than current fashion trends.
* Limited Color Palette: Clothing often featured muted colors like browns, grays, and blues. Brighter colors were reserved for special occasions.
Specific Examples:
* Babies: Infants wore long, loose gowns called "nightgowns" both day and night. These were often made of linen or cotton for breathability.
* Boys: Young boys wore knee-length trousers called "breeches" paired with shirts and sometimes jackets. As they got older, they might switch to longer trousers.
* Girls: Girls wore dresses that reached their ankles, often with simple pinafores or aprons.
* Shoes: Both boys and girls usually wore sturdy leather shoes or boots.
Class Differences:
* Lower Class: Clothing was often made from hand-me-downs, repurposed fabrics, and simpler styles.
* Middle Class: Clothes tended to be more tailored and made of finer fabrics.
* Upper Class: Children from wealthy families wore elaborate, finely crafted garments that reflected the latest fashion trends.
Evolution:
* Early 1800s: Clothing was generally more restrictive and formal, inspired by the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and order.
* Mid to Late 1800s: Children's clothing became more relaxed and comfortable with the rise of Romanticism and Industrialization. This coincided with the introduction of new fabrics and sewing techniques.
Remember:
* This is just a broad overview. Regional variations, family customs, and individual preferences all played a role in shaping children's clothing in the 1800s.
* Photographs and paintings from the period can provide a more visual understanding of children's fashion.