From 1815, the year of peace with France, Romantic influences began to dominate female dress. The narrow skirt remained but waists rose ever higher while the width across the bust was further emphasised by puffed sleeves. For evening wear, the muslins of the previous decade were being replaced by lustrous satins, veiled by overdresses of pale net to produce a shimmering effect. These were usually elaborately trimmed. The deep veil and overdress worn by the Duchess of St Albans in this painting are finished with the finest lace. This is combined with costly pearl tassels and sleeve decorations to create an air of luxury and sophistication. In her hand she carries a pair of white kid gloves. Her hair is worn in the fashionable 'Ancient Greek' style: longer, with a centre parting and curls bunched on the crown.