Finding really beautiful pieces from the turn of the century through to the twenties is getting to be a harder and harder task without having to do restoration work on them, something you see (and may not be told) more and more often as each year passes and many pieces get more and more fragile. So when I do find a piece that is sound and strong and has the added bonus of being entirely original it is that much more a treasure. In addition to all of that this one also has it's original inner slip as well. The gown is one long sheath ghat flares out at the hem in a stunning sweep of metallic lace. It has an incredible curving and swirling seaming detail that wraps around the dress and creates this beautiful pattern on the black silk crepe.  It was incredibly hard to capture and I can only assure you that it is far, far better in person then what you see photoed. Above and below the middle portion of the bias cut silk crepe is a black lace with gold embroidery running through the lace. All that embroidery work is even more amazing when you realize that the metallic lace tulle is hand embroidered with real gold thread and it is all in mint condition. The lines are beautiful and the entire thing is a masterpiece of hand work. I love the huge velvet flower that perfectly finishes the bodice. Underneath the is a silk and net slip that is also so well made it could almost be worn on its own. It has a single layer of silk tulle that helps to showcase the volume of the lower skirt. Its completely wearable (with care of course - its still over a 100 years old so should be handled with much care, love and respect) and its really a work of art, not just a piece of clothing. The lucky girl who gets this will be very pleased indeed! It is truly a special piece and made to couture standards. Excellent, museum quality condition.

The separate inner dress acts as the lining and both pieces are unlined. Both slip over the head to wear. Note that there are small holes in the silk net of the inner slip dress. I have left it all as foiund since they all appear stable and in no way detract or are seen under the exterior dress. There is the slightest of darkening to the lame thread near the arm edges but I am being extremely picky. The velvet flower is perhaps a touch flattened but again I am being extremely picky. For a piece that is almost 100 years old the condition is museum quality.

Note that antique and twenties pieces are final sale. They will be packed exceedingly well and we only sell pieces that will stand up to the stress of shipping, however, having pieces potentially shipped multiple times through multiple customs and countries is too hard on garments that are historically important and deserve to be treated with love and care. Please purchase accordingly.

Inner
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 18" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 35.5" from waist to hem

Outer
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E595

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.