#4020 $1,600
Tunic-style two piece lace dress, c.1910
The loose fitting tunic style dress, a favorite of the great couturier Paul Poiret, was a radical departure from the tightly fitting, corseted S-curve shape of the preceding generation. This tunic, fashioned from gossamer silk lace, has the romantic nostalgia of early 20th century lingerie.
The lace in the tunic is more elaborately patterned than that of the skirt. The weightless tunic is as comfortable as it is beautiful. The wide roomy sleeves, cut-in-one with the bodice, allow freedom of movement, while showcasing the lace pattern. The tunic closes in front with a single hook hidden behind a bouquet of silk ribbon roses.
The skirt is fashioned from matching ivory China silk and is covered from the hipline down with lace. The elastic in the waistband has loosened with time. This versatile ensemble can be worn as a dress or as an evening jacket without the skirt.
The bottom picture presents the exquisite silk lace work, executed with great skill and artistry, creating a delicate floral design of the utmost feminine allure.
The condition is almost excellent. The color has darkened slightly with age.
The tunic measures: 40" bust, 36" waist, 48" hip, and 30" center-back length.
The skirt measures: 30" waist, 50" hip, and 35" length.
