Changeable silk, also known as shot silk, involves weaving two or more colors of silk together to create iridescent look, in this instance, red and green. Embroidered green and reddish-brown ivy, roses, and leaf designs compliment the dress. Green velvet trim and buttons add embellishment.

The dress is associated with Mrs. Mary Reed (Culter) Goodenow (1806-1873). She was the wife of Hon. Robert Goodenow, an attorney and politician from Farmington. The dress dates from around the time when Robert Goodenow served as one of Maine's United States Representative to Congress (1851-1853). The brocade fabric is typical for the period, however, the dress shows signs of alteration, including sleeve style.