With many old pagan and medieval customs being revived by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, Christmas during the 19th century became a time for making merry at seasonal parties, celebrating with the family, eating food and playing games around the parlour fire.

Fashions of the day encompassed the desire to look suitably attired for festivities, as well as the need to keep warm during those winter days. While ladies wore pretty dresses topped by fur capes, muffs and hats, children might be seen in fancy dress, all rosy cheeked and excited, while their parents entertained guests.