Dolley Madison Purchases a Music Collection
Dolley Madison, wife of James Madison, was one of early America’s most gracious hostesses. Through Benjamin Latrobe, she purchased a...
Getting It Right; White House History (Number 35) - Photo 9
- Medium
- Illustration
- Credit
- The White House Historical Association
Getting It Right; White House History (Number 35) - Photo 9
This modern artist’s rendering of Dolley Madison’s crimson red velvet dress brings the now fragile and faded gown back to life. The design featured a drawstring in the neckline facing to allow for adjustments and a skirt fashioned to be flat in the front with fullness placed at the center back, accentuated by a train. Although the use of White House draperies cannot be confirmed, scientific testing showed that the fabric is upholstery-weight material.
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