Textiles and Stuff

Description

This is a most elegant ball gown in cream silk satin with a train. I believe it to date to around the beginning of the 20th Century, to the Victorian or Edwardian era. It has a low oval neckline trimmed with tamboured lace, and short puff sleeves. It is high waisted in the Directoire style and the skirt which is cut on the bias falls with soft gathers from the bodice, the seam being accentuated with piped silk. There is a generous train at the back of the bodice, which fastens at the centre with hooks and eyes.

The bodice has a blouson effect at the front, which began to be seen in dresses of the late 19th Century and through into the next. Both the neckline and the cuffs are decorated with ruching in the silk.

The dress is fully lined with a cotton fabric which strengthens it considerably and makes it suitable for wearing with care or for a striking display.

The measurements of the dress are as follows

Front shoulder to hem 56 1/2 inches (143 cms)
Bust under arm 34 inches
High waist 34 inches
Sleeve underarm 7 inches
The train is approximately 3 feet long (90 cms.)

There are a few places in the fabric where it is worn, particularly round the hem, but this could be remedied by taking up the hem slightly. There is also an area of weakness in the skirt, which can be seen in the photograph, but this is supported by the lining. There are some tiny repairs in the lace trimming.

It is possible that this dress might have been worn for Presentation at Court, but we shall never know!
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