Fashionable waists were at their highest in the second decade of the 19th century. This slim, cream-colored, silk crepe dress is associated with the Wadsworth-Longfellow family, and features simple short sleeves, an extremely high waist, and a narrow inset waist band. Its style dates to the earlier part of the decade, between 1810 and 1815.

The skirt is smooth at front, with gathers across the back. The loose sleeves are gathered or bunched into puffs at the top, hinting of sleeve styles to come. The silk crepe may be the product of the China trade.