Polonaise 15th century. In later centuries it gained popularity among the nobility and townspeople. Polonaise in French Courts The polonaise or "polonez", was first introduced in the 17th century in French courts, although the form originated in Poland and was very popular throughout Europe. This dance in 3/4 meter was designed to entertain the French royal court. The term polonaise was used over the term "polonez" at the start of the 18th century. Princess Anna Maria of Saxony Princess Anna Maria of Saxony collected polonaises throughout her life time, collecting over 350. Her collection was focused on the finest examples of
Polonaise (clothing) such example was the witzchoura, a fur-lined cloak with sleeves sometimes described as being "à la Polonaise". In May 1868 the "Ladies' Monthly Magazine" published a coloured fashion plate showing a green silk dress with an asymmetrically opening front described as being made "à la Polonaise", along with a pattern for making it up. During the very late 1860s references to historical dress became fashionable, including draped overskirts loosely based on the 18th century "robe à la polonaise". In 1871 "Peterson's Magazine" stated that the polonaise was an overdress based on the 18th century sacque, with the bodice cut in