An example of a dress likely worn with cage crinoline, or hoop skirt, this blue, black and white stripe dress, with double pagoda sleeves and frizzé fringe braid trimming, dates from the period when the cage crinoline was first introduced. The cage crinoline, made of flexible steel, was patented in 1856. Women could walk more easily under the caged skirt, when unencumbered by layers heavy petticoats.

The dress features an unusual stepped velvet motif. The bodice has a front closure, a high slight 'V' neckline, and a royal blue flower with double tassel. The bodice is lined with cotton, and stitched to the skirt. The skirt shows signs of alteration.

Provenance states the dress was worn by Almina Guptill who was born in 1830, at her wedding to Isaac Newton Deering on May 14, 1856. The couple lived in Waterboro.