In 1853 Napoleon III married the Empress Eugenie, who subsequently became a fashion trend setter for the period. Charles Frederick Worth was her fashion designer. I found a pattern for this garment, named after her. I cannot find any documentation to show whether she ever wore anything like this. Regardless, it is a nice piece that adds flexibility to one’s wardrobe. It is made from cream colored satin with an organza overlay, and is trimmed with black and blonde lace.  Pattern from Heidi Marsh.