This #textiletuesday we take a close look at watered silk. #Textile manufacturers produced the unique appearance of watered silk or moire through calendaring. This process involves running ribbed rollers over a textile while also applying high heat and pressure to burn the watered appearance into the fabric! A lot of work, but a beautiful outcome. This closeup is part of an 1860s visiting gown worn by Margaretta Sophia Howard Ridgely of Hampton House. 1956.15.47 The Estate of Miss Eliza Ridgely #wateredsilk #silk #moire #calendaring #1860s #1860sfashion #1860sdress #mdhs #hamptonhouse #19thcenturyfashion #19thcenturydress