Exploring 19th-Century Women's Fashion: From Miriñaque to Polisón (1868-1898) and Its Evolution

This section of the permanent exhibition explores the evolution of women's fashion in the late 19th century, specifically the period between 1868 and 1898. It details the transition from the voluminous 'miriñaque' silhouette to the structured 'polisón' bustle, influenced by changing social needs and fashion designers.

The period between 1868 and 1898 marked a significant shift in women's fashion, driven by evolving social, political, and commercial activities, as well as the development of public transportation. The expansive 'miriñaque' of the romantic era became incompatible with the need for greater mobility in urban settings. This era saw the rise of fashion houses, symbolized by the emergence of designer labels and the professionalization of dressmaking, with Charles F. Worth often credited for influencing the transition from the miriñaque to the polisón. Advances in chemistry also introduced new vibrant colors derived from synthetic anilines, such as intense pinks, fuchsias, violets, and purples, which enriched the palette of garments. In contrast, men's attire remained largely consistent, increasingly favoring black, which became the standard for formal wear, save for the white elements of shirts, collars, and cuffs.