Of extraordinary and imaginative construction, the gown, constructed for gala soiree, has fitted bodice constructed of narrow sewn-together bands of colorful and intricate ribbons, the seams disguised by vertical bands of gilt metallic cording. The bodice features a rounded neckline with a delicate lace ruffle and silk bows of various colors. The gown has widely puffed ribbon silk sleeves that are edged with metallic cording. The waist is fitted. There is an underskirt whose top half is of sheer muslin to give shape to the overskirt that is formed of wider bands of patterned silk ribbons in a multitude of rich colors; the overskirt is banded by a wide metallic braid. The bottom half of the underskirt is a fine ivory silk with metallic thread and braid interspersed by colorful silk bows. Box-shaped lappets of silk ribbons extend around the entire waistband. The bodice and underskirt are lined. Included is a magnificently-shaped party hat with very wide upturned sides and high peak, formed of multi-colored silk ribbons sewn onto a firmly shaped silk ground, edged with metallic braid and cord, and trimmed with same-silk bows. Unsigned, the costume is unquestionably the creation of a couturier. Appropriately sized for 16-17" Huret style poupee. Circa 1860.