Crinolines were the epitome of mid nineteenth century fashion, giving women the coveted bell shaped silhouette. Made of horsehair and steel, these cage like petticoats could span several feet in diameter, making them quite cumbersome. When The Jane Dress in Saddle Brown and Natural Off White Cotton exterior patch pockets reversible straps Alli Marye The crinoline fashion trend that killed thousands of women (1860s). A crinoline is a stiff or structured petticoat designed to hold out a woman's skirt, popular at various times since the mid 19th The crinoline fashion trend that killed thousands of women (1860s). A crinoline is a stiff or structured petticoat designed to hold out a woman's skirt, popular at various times since the mid 19th