Rare 1890s Queen Victoria Era Silk Two Piece
£1 800.00
Price incl. VAT (20%) £300.00
In stock: 1 available
Product Details
An Exceptional Late Victorian Piece — A True Museum-Quality Survivor
A truly extraordinary and incredibly rare late 1890s Victorian silk dress, dating to the era of Queen Victoria.
This remarkable piece is approximately 130+ years old and is a wonderful example of the craftsmanship, construction and elegance of late Victorian dressmaking.
In my opinion, it is far more than simply a beautiful antique dress — it is a piece of fashion history.
The dress is made from the most luxurious pure silk, with an elegant high neckline and long sleeves. The sleeves feature beautiful hand-worked detailing, showcasing the incredible skill and attention to detail of the period.
The over-skirt is particularly striking, falling beautifully over the dress and finished with an exquisite scalloped edge. Even the interior construction is fascinating, revealing the workmanship and traditional trade techniques used by Victorian dressmakers. Horsehair has been incorporated into the construction to provide weight and structure, carefully concealed within the garment.
One of my favourite details to this two-piece wedding dress is the construction at the back, finished with the prettiest bow. It is an exquisite detail that adds to the elegance and femininity of the dress.
Looking back through historical dress of the period, this gown strongly reflects the styles and silhouettes associated with Queen Victoria's later years. In its black silk, high neckline, fitted shape and elaborate construction, it captures the unmistakable elegance of the late 1890s.
What makes this dress even more special is the story it carries. It has been worn and treasured across three generations of the same family. The lady I acquired it from was particularly keen that it should find a new home with someone who would appreciate and love it as much as her family has.
There is even more history within the remaining fabric. Leftover fabric from this dress was later used in garments made in approximately 1910 and again in the 1940s, giving this textile an extraordinary connection across generations of fashion.
Please note that the dress does require conservation and repair, and there are stains beneath the arms. These points have been reflected honestly in the description and should be considered by any prospective purchaser. Given its age, rarity, craftsmanship and provenance, I believe this is a piece to be carefully preserved and cherished.
- Era: Late 1890s
- Period: Queen Victoria era
- Size: Approximately UK 4
- Fabric: Pure silk
- Colour: Champagne cream
- Material: Pure Slik
Rare 1890s Queen Victoria Era Silk Two Piece
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