REVIVAL OF THE VICTORIAN CRINOLINE.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 184, 5 August 1931, Page 10

REVIVAL OF THE VICTORIAN CRINOLINE.

DISTINCTIVE MODES FOR THE COMING SEASON (Special to the “Star.”) LONDON, June 27. A modern successor to the Victorian crinoline has arrived to enliven the dress displays of 1931. So far from being a revival, dress creators predict that the new style, in which the billowing effect begins at the knee, will add a fresh page to the history of costume. It is so new that the fashion-makers have not found a name for it yet, and when introduced at a display of a leading London fashion house yesterday it was referred to as the “ stiffened flare.” The skirts made on the latest line stood out stiffly from the knees to the toes in odd contrast to the sheath-like fitting of waist and hip. Frocks which fell to the toes without the voluminous crinoline flare from the knees were instantly stamped old-fashioned. Gcwns of Silver.

There were other sensational novelties at this parade, the use of precious metals for example. Real silver is beaten into cloth, and so new is the fabric that it has not yet got a name. It has the dull glimmer of a still pool, and the dress made of it was aptly christened “ Reflection.” Cire net is another new material just arrived from France, which looks very much like glazed paper and is to be extensively used for this year’s dresses. Large hats will be worn despite the fact that small hats, made or partly made of the same material as the suit, are the vogue of the moment. Many of the large hats turn up in front, but the brims come right down over the shoulders at the back.

A sensation was caused by the appearance of a mannequin in a hat resembling a Salvation Army bonnet, worn with a demure black frock with white collar and cuffs. Efforts are being made by the dressmakers to get rid of “ the eternal belt.” The backlessness of the newest evening frocks is half concealed by scarves and bows. The backless evening dress is also responsible for the new way of wearing necklaces, which should hang as far down the back as they do in front.