Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Early 1820's Dress












From the seller:

We are offering for sale in this auction a truly wonderful original silk dress dating from 1810 to the early 1820’s period. This lovely dress is constructed from a crepe style olive green silk which is in very solid and flexible condition. It is of course entirely hand sewn. The bodice is lined with a combination of linen and cotton muslin, also in very good, solid condition. The sleeves were lined in brown polished cotton, most of which is now missing. Skirt portion is unlined. There is no evidence of hooks and eyes and we believe it was probably pinned for closure. This dress has a great style with its round collar, waistband of light gold taffeta and 4 tiny pleats above the hem. I would rate the overall condition of this dress as excellent for its age. There are only a few tiny holes as would come from insects, no rips, tears or repairs. The underarm areas do show perspiration stains, probably caused by the brown polished cotton lining. The inside back of the collar has a piece mismatched piece of silk brocade and there are small wedges of the dress fabric which look to be added to the shoulder seams. This all looks to be period to the garment; perhaps to enlarge for another wearer. This lovely piece has been in my personal collection for several years and I am rather sad to part with it, but, it deserves to be seen and appreciated by others, not just stored in a museum box. The following are its measurements: Bust 28 inches, Empire Waist 24 inches, Sleeve Length 25 inches, Front Length 51 inches, Back Length 54 inches and Hem Circumference of 68 inches. PLEASE NOTE: No attempt should be made to wear any garment of this great age and therefore measurements are provided for reference purposes only.

From Me:

I love this seller if for no other reason than their note. THANK YOU!

Anyway, the still empire bust waist and the starting to puff out (not up like the 1890's) sleeves mean this is probably from the 1819-1823 time frame.

2 comments:

  1. Yes, thank you, seller!

    And I love this dress. The color and the drape reminds me of a Star Wars set though. :-)

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    Replies
    1. Now you make me want to make this dress and put my hair up in Princess Leia buns. :-D

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