Unknown Maker, Philippine

Blouses like this one were worn by upper-class Filipina women in the mid-1800s. Sleeve shapes reflected changing fashions: in the early 1800s, sleeves were straight and narrow. By mid-century they became draped and fuller, as you see here. Note the gathers at the shoulders, which created volume and required extra piña fabric, further indicating the wealth of the wearer. By 1900, sleeves were stiffer and even larger, and worn higher up on the shoulder.