I know I don’t talk much about fashion here, but I’m so intrigued by fashion, especially if that fashion is from 100 years ago or more.
Today let’s go on a virtual shopping trip to look at some antique clothing. This post is sponsored by Ruby Lane. You can click on any of the photos to find out more about each of these items.
I love the cobalt blue color of this amazing dress. The description on Ruby Lane describes the dress as ‘politely elegant’. It was ‘elaborate enough to show the status of the hostess, without being so ostentation as to embarrass her visitors. And you probably thought I wore jeans all the time because they are comfortable, when actually I was concerned about embarrassing my guests. (Okay I’m just messin’ with you.) Now I just can’t imagine wearing a dress like this, but at the same time I am so taken with it’s beauty. A corset was a requirement in 1870 when this dress was made. The dress fits perfectly over the snug corset. This dress was probably custom made for its owner. Ready to wear clothing wasn’t quite in vogue at this time.
French Victorian Blue Silk Gown
These lace up leather shoes or boots are listed as vintage, but honestly they look antique to me. Remember before cars, many streets weren’t paved, and so ladies needed boots when walking. And with the horses every where one needed to look where one was walking.
This one is a Titantic era summer dress, made in Paris. It is dated 1912. Don’t you wonder who owned it, what she looked like and what became of her? I know I do. It’s a gorgeous dress. Sadly I don’t think my waist was ever 23″ so it would just be for display at my house.
Parisian Summer Dress from 1912
These shoes were the height of fashion during the Edwardian days, and the buckles add even more elegance. Look at the pointed toe and the shapely heel. Of course these days, everyone wants a bit of toe cleavage, but back then, it might have been a bit too scandalous to show. The shoe would have been popular about the same time as the dress shown above, but maybe they would not have been worn together.
Finally we have a lovely flapper dress from the 1920’s, the time of bootleg gin, speak easies, Bonnie and Clyde, and the Charleston dance. Can you imagine how horrified the older set must have been to see ladies’ legs? And the corset is not completely gone. There’s not need to wear one with a dropped waist. The beading and lace make this dress special.
I hope you enjoyed this fun look at antique clothing. Remember Ruby Lane has not just vintage home decor, but vintage clothing, jewelry and so much more.
I have a dress that was worn by my Great Great Grandmother that dates back to the mid to late 1800’s. I have it packed away. I need to get it out and put it on a dress form if I can find one with the waist small enough. It’s not as fancy as the on you posted but I will share it if you would like.