A striking yet damaged 1850s silk day dress. The dress is made of silk taffeta patterned with a thin stripe and dense floral borders. A very typical style for the 1850s, the dress has a gathered bodice front, flared pagoda sleeves, and a deep flounced skirt. The dress has been much altered for use as a costume in the 20th century. The bodice has been enlarged, and the sleeves lengthened. The back fastenings have been replaced with press studs. The waist seam is a raw edge, and a modern ribbon belt has been attached to cover this. The silk is very stained and torn in places, and some of the fragile areas have been patched from behind. Overall, the dress is in rather a sorry state, but despite this, it does display well. The neckline does not sit well due to the alteration, so I have added a fine white worked muslin collar, which is included with the dress; the white under sleeves are not included. See photos for examples of the damage and alteration.
Approximate Measurements:
Bust: 35 inches
Waist: 27 inches
Front length: 53 inches
Back length: 59 inches
A striking yet damaged 1850s silk day dress. The dress is made of silk taffeta patterned with a thin stripe and dense floral borders. A very typical style for the 1850s, the dress has a gathered bodice front, flared pagoda sleeves, and a deep flounced skirt. The dress has been much altered for use as a costume in the 20th century. The bodice has been enlarged, and the sleeves lengthened. The back fastenings have been replaced with press studs. The waist seam is a raw edge, and a modern ribbon belt has been attached to cover this. The silk is very stained and torn in places, and some of the fragile areas have been patched from behind. Overall, the dress is in rather a sorry state, but despite this, it does display well. The neckline does not sit well due to the alteration, so I have added a fine white worked muslin collar, which is included with the dress; the white under sleeves are not included. See photos for examples of the damage and alteration.
Approximate Measurements:
Bust: 35 inches
Waist: 27 inches
Front length: 53 inches
Back length: 59 inches
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