#1185 $450
Three-piece silk bustle gown, c.1880
This eye-catching bustle dress makes a commanding display. Here is a value purchase for the collector who wants the look without the high price of a museum quality dress in top condition.
Altered to make it larger and more wearable, the dress is still true to the period in style, maintaining design integrity. The changes, e.g., removal of the bodice boning, affect only the construction.
Each piece in the fashionable ensemble is separate. The bodice is lined with brown cotton and closes in front with buttons. The underskirt is mostly black silk with a wide border of blue striped silk around the hem. The underskirt is lined with brown cotton. The unlined upper skirt is pulled up and artfully draped over the bustle in back.
The blue and gray striped silk is a refreshing alternative to the usual plain brown or black found in many Victorian dresses. The dress is nicely detailed with self-bound edges and shirred ruffles.
The condition is very good and wearable. There are a few small problems, none of which detract from the overall appearance: slight fraying along the center-front opening; a few discrete mends in the silk; replacement neckline lace; replacement buttons (one is missing); and slight underarm discoloration. The price reflects the minor imperfections.
It measures: 38" bust, 29" bodice waist, 17 1/2" from sleeve cap to sleeve cap, 21 1/2" sleeve length, 29" skirt waist and 43 1/2" skirt front length.
