Stitches in Time

Hemlines rise and hemlines fall,

Ruches flattened like a wall,

Knife-edged pleats and tatted lace,

Feathers softly brushing face,

Plaited straw of golden hue,

Heavy veils to obscure view.

Buskins, bustles, garters, socks,

Buttonholes for pendant clocks,

Bum rolls of the silken sort,

Bralettes offer good support,

Camisoles and pantaloons,

Banyans for the afternoons.

Boning for some corseting,

Eyelet holes in everything,

Aiglets, buckles, batik, weave,

Embroideries I can't believe,

Smocking, gathering, French fold seam,

Spangles shimmer in candle gleam.

Coins tucked in a fob pocket,

Finger rings, enamel locket,

Gossamer of finest cotton,

Evening styles almost forgotten,

Dinners, balls, and masquerade,

Paisleys, stripes, and lively plaid.

Snow-white linen, indigo blue,

Royal purpure, tribute due,

Cloth of gold, silver trim,

Rosettes on a tricorne brim,

Short sleeves, long sleeves, tippets, spats,

Caps and fascinating hats.

These things and more, I think you'll find

Reside within attire's mind.