The convergence of fashion and interiors is one of my research interests. In the 19th century, there was a moment when women's fashion and upholstered furniture were aligned in form, material, volume. Fashion historian Kate Strasdin recently posted this dress from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to her twitter (@katesrasdin), pointing out:
"The 1870s are distinctive for an upholstered aesthetic. There’s a sense that you could never have enough embellishment. In addition to the extra patterned fabric & silk fringe, this dress is trimmed with buttons of abalone, an iridescent shell."
