A robe à l’anglaise is a gown with a bodice fitted at front and back, and a waistline marked by a seam. The centre back panel of the bodice is often continued below the waist to be incorporated into the skirt.

The fabric is decorated with flowers against a white background, which shows similar damask woven flowers, white on white. This style of silk is typical of English fabrics of the 1750s, and at least three garments of this identical fabric are known to exist.

Under the gown, the woman would have worn a shift, stays, panniers (side hoops), and a petticoat, as well as stockings and garters. The effect was ornamental and, although voluminous, light. The panniers show off the fabric and create contrast with the size of the waist.