This red silk waist is part of the Nevada Historical Society Collection (HM-12169-Q-142). Given the examples on the following page as reference, this waist was probably built between 1864-1869. It has a high round collarless neckline with center front closure. The closure is with hooks and eyes. The buttons decorate the exterior.

The puffed or rusched silk is separated by a white braid which has been sewn on by hand. Perhaps for economic reasons, shortage of material or decisions relating to the wear of the garment, the underarm areas of the bodice are plain. The fabric is fitted into the solid red waistband. The blouse is built upon a muslin base.

Only the upper sleeve of the two piece sleeve continue the design. The underarm panels are plain red silk. You will see the curve of the sleeve which imitates the curve of a gentleman's two piece sleeve. Braid is also used to strengthen the armscyes just as piping is used in the period.