During the Regency Period in fashion, gowns tended to be quite simple and relatively informal compared to the surrounding time periods. What is now known as the "princess" or "empire" waistline was prevalent. Corsets were temporarily abandoned (replaced by the undergarment known as "stays"). Inspired by classical Greek and Roman garments, Regency gowns were designed to flatter a woman's natural body shap, in an understated, modest manner. This particular gown was a special order from a professional harpist who was taking part in a period-correct concert celebrating the music of the Regency Period and needed an appropriate dress to wear.