1809 White Dress, French. Large striped shawl with pointed back and white hat tied with pink ribbon. Fashion Plate via Journal des Dames et des Modes, or Costume Parisien. I can picture Jane Austen and her female friends and family wearing a white Empire style dress and warm shawl, or cape, like this for shopping or paying visits. The essential cap is tied under the chin and trimmed with lace and ribbon.