11. Restrictive Mourning Dress Codes
In the Victorian era, widows were expected to wear black mourning attire for up to two years, adhering to strict guidelines that dictated fabric choices, accessories, and social interactions. The first year, known as “full mourning,” required black crepe dresses and veils, with minimal social engagement. The subsequent period, “half mourning,” allowed for the introduction of muted colors like grey and mauve. These customs are detailed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s exhibition.
