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This stunning dress is a classic example of the transitional styling at the end of World War I. It retains the tunic style and lower-calf length of the teens, but its asymetrical draping and large vertical bow behind the left hip illustrate the transition toward 1920's fashions. The black embroidered silk dress has a dramatic plunging neckline front and back. The bodice is loosely draped over a black muslin underbodice with a stayed inner waistband. An overskirt of black net with gold metallic embroidery drifts loosely to an asymetrical hem on the at the borders. The same black net makes up the sheer sleeves, which have gathers from the sleeve hem to the shoulder to create an interesting draping. The underbodice bodice fastens at center front, and the draped overbodice and skirt fasten at the left with typical complex Edwardian snaps and hooks. This very elegant dress is well worth restoration or could serve as design inspiration.
The dress is sturdy and easily handled. It could be worn for a picture or fashion show, but is not suitable for wear other than a brief event. The most significant issue is damage to the net of the right sleeve -- two 1/2" holes at the back of the sleeve, plus rips under the sleeve near the seams. There is also a hole in the net on the left sleeve, unseen when displayed because it disappears into the black silk of the dress. I saw two horizontal splits in the silk about 1-1/2" long, above back hem. The gold embroidery is damaged and has been repaired at the back hem of the net overdress. None of these issues is visible when the dress is displayed. The white dots in the pictures are backdrop showing through the skirt embroidery, not issues in the dress.
Antique clothing is fragile and requires careful handling. I take great care in describing condition, but I may overlook something. Buyer should anticipate that there will be age related flaws in any antique clothing item.
Bust - 40"
Waist - 30"
Hips - 41"
Shoulder-to-Shoulder - 17"
Length, Shoulder to Hem - 52"
For reference only; measurements not guaranteed. These are measurements of the dress, not the person wearing the dress.
Price: $95.00
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