1780 Lucy Terry - Coral

1780s Coral Floral Trail for Robe à la Française

Product Description

This coral interpretation of an 18th-century floral trail design is inspired by historical block-printed textiles from around 1780. The composition features delicate floral branches in warm coral tones, combined with a flowing ribbon-like stripe that creates structure and movement across the surface.

The luminous coral palette brings warmth and softness to the design, making it particularly well suited for elegant gowns where light, movement, and refined colour balance are essential.

Well suited for

Robe à la Française, petticoats, stomachers, sleeves, and 18th-century gowns where a warm and graceful floral textile enhances the silhouette and decorative richness.

Design & Historical Context

Floral trail designs like this were widely used in the late 18th century, especially for formal gowns and court dress. The flowing vertical movement complements the structured back pleats of the Robe à la Française, creating a harmonious balance between textile and garment construction.

This version highlights a soft coral-dominant palette—offering a refined and luminous interpretation while maintaining the elegance of the original period design.

This design is named after Lucy Terry Prince (born 1733), an American poet and early literary figure. Her ballad “Bars Fight,” composed in 1746 and later published in 1855, is considered the oldest known work of literature by an African American.