Pockets were often made from old clothes and leftover pieces of fabric. This example incorporates several fabrics of different dates. A late 18th century motif embroidered in metal thread on silk velvet forms the pocket front. It is worked in the shape of a heart encircling a double-headed eagle, even though it is a bit too big for the pocket. A vibrant cotton print of the 1840s makes up the back and lines the horizontal opening. Coloured silk ribbon edges the pocket with a chequered cotton tie.
During the 19th century, most fashionable gowns had pockets sewn into the seams of the skirt. Separate pockets were worn mainly by young girls, older women and working class women. They were also a feature of ethnic or regional costume.