1795-1805 ca. Evening Dress, Spain. Batiste, embroidered with sequins and floral theme. Via Museum Collections in Spain. ceres.mcu.es

The Empire styles at the beginning of the 19th century were made of a soft, lightweight fabric gathered just under the breasts. It featured a low square neckline, and small, short, puffed sleeves with a low shoulder line. Although lawn and batiste were used, muslin was the fabric of choice as it was easy to clean. The thin muslin clung close to the body and emulated styles worn in ancient Greece. Shades of white predominated, with the addition of pale pastel shades worn for day wear.

Definition Batiste:  Soft, sheer, cotton or linen fabric in white and delicate colors, used for handkerchiefs, nightwear and neckwear. Probably named for its inventor, Jean Baptiste, of Cambrai.