Because I can't sleep

[theladyrebecca]

I figured I'd share the pictures I took of the 1890s dress I was given. I'd love to figure out a more precise date - I'm thinking it seems more early-to-mid 90s? In any case, I love that it's a full suit! It is pieced like crazy, especially in the sleeves, and is a very dark chocolate brown silk. And there's only a few tears - mostly in the waistband and in the sleeves.


It almost fits my smaller form - the waist is only about 1" too small, but it's way to small in the shoulders.



I think most of the buttons are original, though there's a few that have been replaced. There's a small bow in the center back at the waist.


The buttons hide inside this bodice flap. There's also a small leather breast pocket inside the flap. Perhaps for a watch?


The hem has ruched trim on the outside, and a velvet band around both inside and outside of the hem. The skirt is fully lined with cotton, and cartridge pleated into the back of the waistband.

Comments

[mala-14.livejournal.com]

Oooh how lovely! What a nice gift! I would bet that you're right on the date. When I was researching ridiculous 1890s sleeves, they tended to be big c.1893-1896. So many cool details on this, like that hem! Thanks for sharing!

[wanda newton (from livejournal.com)]

It is quite a beautiful work of art. What a gift. Thank you for giving us a detailed view of this garment.

[chocolatepot.livejournal.com]

How lovely! And what a great condition. I agree that it's probably around 1892-93, with the shape of the sleeves, and closer to the end of the decade the straightforward CF-all-the-way-up buttoning closure is less common.