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These two antique garments were purchased together and I was told that they belonged together. I do not have additional provenance confirming their original relationship, so they are being offered together as found.
The black bodice has an incredible late Victorian silhouette, with dramatic full gigot/leg-of-mutton sleeves, a high standing collar, fitted waist, pointed front and back, heavily gathered fabric through the body, and multiple rows of ruching around the sleeves. The long fitted lower sleeves terminate in delicate black lace cuffs.
The black fabric has a subtle woven stripe/plaid pattern that becomes more apparent in the light. The bodice closes with small metal hooks and eyes.
The interior is particularly interesting and retains extensive original structural construction. It is fitted with numerous stays/bones around the waist and torso, creating the sharply tailored Victorian silhouette. Interior construction, stitching, closures and stays are shown extensively in the photographs.
The accompanying cream/ivory petticoat is very full and heavily gathered at the waistband. The lower portion is decorated with numerous horizontal tucked bands and finished with a narrow gathered ruffle at the hem.
Condition: These are genuine antique garments showing considerable age and wear and are being sold as found. The black bodice has scattered small holes, areas of fabric wear, marks/discoloration, loose or damaged stitching, previous repairs and deterioration/loss to the lace cuffs. There is additional wear and separation visible within the interior construction and around portions of the closures.
The cream petticoat has overall age toning and discoloration, scattered staining/spotting and soiling, small holes/tears, loose areas and wear/deterioration along the hem and ruffle. There is also a torn/detached area at the waistband as photographed.
Neither piece has been cleaned or restored by me. Because of their age and fragile condition, I would consider these best suited to a historic clothing/textile collection, study, display, archival reference or restoration rather than regular wear.
Measurements (flat lay):
Black bodice
Bust: 15\"
Waist across: 12\"
Shoulder to shoulder: 11.5\"
Front length: 16\"
Back length: 18\"
Sleeve length: 25\"
Cream petticoat
Waist across: 12\"
Front length: 27\"
Back length: 27\"
Hem circumference: 94\"
Please review all photographs closely. They are an important part of the description and show the garments\' construction, condition, wear and age in detail.
