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1880's asymetrical dress 
This auction is for an outstanding original circa 1880s lady's two piece midnite blue satin silk faille accented with darker steel blue velvet reception / recieving gown. Created with superior construction; this gown was specifically sewn for cold winter months. The simple yet quite elegant bodice has two linings with the outer one being sturdy black silk. A narrow mandarin collar with front blind hook / eye closure, typical V peplum skirt and back vented tails. The extremely detailed quite luxurious skirt is the highlight of this ensemble. Completely pleated in layers with billowing wide built in bustled back, wide velvet ruffles and a velvet hem border, a delightful long sash decorated with long fringes on one side; the other side is decorated with a superb very large bow both of which have dangling thick cording that has chenille-like pom poms. There is so much detailing, I actually find it difficult to simply describe, please look closely at the photos - the left and right side are differently styled. The luxurious trained skirt is wool lined on hem. In overall very good, very sound, very clean condition; there is some light discoloration; I actually had to examine it closely in order to determine if it was discoloration or the way the fabric was designed. Also being taken in the direct sunlight, the photos make it appear more apparent than it really is. The outer bustle waist band (there is two waistbands) will need some minimal repair. A 35" bust, 30" waist, and 39" from front top of waistband to hem while the back is 41". A truly opulent gown from the early Belle Epoch era, one of the nicest I have had the pleasure of owning in the last 30yrs. This is a very heavy gown so the shipping will be slightly higher than normal or most likely expected, feel free to send an inquiry for exact cost. Acquired from a wealthy estate in Washington DC area; the family was known to travel extensively which leads me to wonder if it is of French origin.


I need to find out where these "wealthy estate" sales are in DC to snag a few of these for myself!

Posted by Isabella at 1:04 PM