Edwardian 1910s Whitework Embroidered Muslin Lawn Dress

This is a superb example of an American made tea or lawn dress from the 1900s Edwardian era or possibly a tiny bit later. The dress is made from a lightweight white muslin cotton and has been hand-embroidered all over with what looks like a little oak leaf motif in blue cotton. The skirt section is made up of a longer straight underskirt which reaches to the ankles followed by a long peplum overskirt which is made up of horizontal tiered panels. Each of the tiers also features a row of petite eyelet work and this is edged in a yellow cotton. The sleeves are gently fluted and are around three-quarter length with shaping around the elbow.

There are no zips as they hadn’t been invented yet. Instead, there is an elaborate set of poppers and hook and eyes which allow access to the dress from the front. These are carefully concealed along one of the overlapping bodice panels that intersects with the horizontal modesty panel. The hooks and eyes are hidden on the waistband by an integral belt.

Condition wise, this is extraordinary for something of its age. It is extremely wearable and there are no faults of any note. We see one well executed L shaped repair to the muslin only and it is fresh and ready to wear. Best fit for up to a UK size 8 or US 4.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust - 36 in. (91.4 cm)
Waist - 26 in. (66 cm)
Hip - 42 in. (106.7 cm)
Length - 49 in. (124.5 cm)
Shoulders - 14.5 in. (36.8 cm)