This gorgeous gown was made in the 1890s by Liberty of London/Paris in the Aesthetic style. The beautiful smocking in the bodice allows a freedom in motion to the wearer, as opposed to the tightly laced dresses of that time. Dress is in excellent condition for its ripe old age, though it is missing one covered button in the back and has a a couple small stains in the back(see pics).
Liberty & Co. of Regent Street in London was well-known in the late nineteenth century as a purveyor of fine fabrics and eastern wares closely associated with the Aesthetic Movement. In 1884, they opened a costume department, producing garments that were strongly influenced by Rational dress theories and Aesthetic movement sensibilities. Garments like this one that bear the label of the Liberty & Co. Artistic and Historic Costume Studio are quite rare. Made of cream silk gathered into pleats with small puffed sleeves and smocking across the yoke, this dress is an excellent example of historically-inspired artistic dress of the late 1890s.
Shoulders 15" across
Chest 42"
Smocked waist 27"-32"
Hips 48"
Arm width shoulder to armpit 7"
Arm length from shoulder to cuff 21"
Width around wrist cuff 3.5"
Length from top of shoulder to hem 60"
Vintage garments have been previously worn and lovingly cared for, they may however have a blemish or two. Here at MadelonVintage, I try my very best to note all the details of each garment, although I may sometimes overlook things, which I do apologise for. Please do not expect perfection, unless stated so.
Please make sure you check all the measurements of the garment before purchasing. Vintage garment sizes are not the same as those of today. To ensure the best fit, I suggest you measure you favourite similar style garment and compare it to the measurements listed. All measurements are taken whilst the garment is lying flat, we then double these measurements to reflect the actual size.