1850s - 1920s
Page 1 of 4
Click on image for larger and additional views !

Museum Wedding 1750-1840's 1930's-Today Special Under $150 Hats, Shoes, etc. Lingerie Memorabilia Furs, Etc.
To order, or ask questions: Click ORDER Must Include Item #		COMPLETE ORDERING INFORMATION		INTERNATIONAL CURRENCY CONVERTER $ £ DM FF ¥ , etc.
[ORDER ITEM #6165] Click on image for additional photos!		#6165 - c. early 1900's White Linen/Cotton Boy's Sailor Suit with Embroidered Anchor on Sleeve!  I usually don't sell children's clothes, but... isn't there ALWAYS a but on my website!....  when I find great pieces, no matter what they are... I just have to go for it!  I bought this with not a second of hesitation!  Probably from the WWI era, but I don't know for sure the exact dating... it's certainly no newer than the 1920s.  Gotta love the embroidered red anchor on the one sleeve.  The shorts have buttonholes inside the waistband.  The matching belt comes off, so nice to know it survived with the rest of the suit!   Near Mint condition!!!  Fantastic!!!!  Measures 33" chest,  25" waist, 16" long pants from waist to hem. It's a bit large for this boy mannequin, so hard for me to judge the age or size of little boys clothing, so please just go with the measurements.  Museum Worthy!!!  NEW LISTING!   $ 565. Approx. - SIZE:  young boys (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5879A] Click on image for additional photos!		#5879A- c. 1920's Brown Velvet Embroidered Afternoon Dress with tiny beads!  I'm usually all about the fancy dresses... but I DO find some pretty day dresses or afternoon dresses that especially evoke an era... and those DO excite me nearly as much!  However, although this dress is quite good on the outside (other than a few velvet nicks and one spot (seen on lower skirt above embroidery (see photo), the interior is another story.  Need to be redone, or completely stablized.  So... the price reflects the issues.  Meanwhile, it's a wearable size of measures:  36" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 42" hips, 51" long from shoulder to hem.  The embroidery has tiny beads for just a little extra excitement! :)   The skirt is actually two layers.  So, for those of you who want a bit of a project.... this would be fantastic for those of you who have a 1920s motorcar!!!  NEW LISTING!   $ 285. Approx. - SIZE 8/10 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5917] Click on image for additional photos!		#5917- c. 1912 House of WORTH, Paris Black Chiffon Over Lame Lace Gown!!!  OK.. RIGHT off the bat, I have to explain...  This gown is in POOR condition (though some others might actually call it FAIR condition).  I nearly just sent this gown back to the owner rather than sell on my website, as I'm VERY VERY picky and HATE selling items in less than fabulous condition.  But sometimes I get asked for things that are fantastic, but with condition issues making them quite affordable for all... and what is better than a WORTH gown???  Especially one that could have been on the Titanic!   Hey, maybe that's why the condition isn't good, eh?  Perhaps some woman was sitting on a lifeboat in this gown! :)  Sadly, her more modern relative decided at some point to cut the back and ADD A ZIPPER!  YIKES!!! Yes, a ZIPPER at the back!!!  In addition, you will see that the ivory silk satin is all torn up on the sleeves, and even though the black chiffon and the gold lame lace is in decent condition, it's all starting to go.  Love the small rhinestones at the neckline.  The lame lace showing through the chiffon.  And the fantastic NUMBERED WORTH LABEL... along with an additional number in the skirt seams!! For those of you who want a great study piece, or just never thought you could afford a Worth gown, this is for you.  If you are a textile person, the lace alone is spectacular for study!  And please.... to all of you... if you EVER put a ZIPPER in an Edwardian dress, you are officially banned from this website for your lifetime!  Just sayin'.  NEW LISTING!   FINAL SALE ITEM! $ 485. Approx. - SIZE 0 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5981] Click on image for additional photos!		#5981 - June, 18, 1902  WEDDING ENSEMBLE!  2-piece Trained "Going Away Gown" of Floral Silk with Black Lace Trim, Black Velvet Bow, Black Beading and Ecru Chiffon!  With Provenance!  PLUS .... EXTRA BONUS... The Original 1902 Wedding Gown!!!  This beautiful wedding ensemble came to me from the descendant of the original owner, so we know it was worn by Claire Gail Campbell Southard (1880-1945) so she married when she was 22.  I have this, her "going away outfit" and her wedding gown as well, along with a homemade silk floral purse, with small (possibly bakelite, otherwise early plastic) mirror and handwritten small note inside that reads:  "The Christmas tree is strait and tall, The lamps are lighted in the hall, The lights are bright, My head is light, and all I know is nothing at all." So, I figure she was on drugs (probably not), or just met the man of her dreams and was lovesick when she wrote this poem... and then carried it with her for her going away!! :)   Any little piece of history is a joy to have!!!   So, now for the bad news.  The condition issues:   The pink floral skirt is in remarkably great condition, however the bodice is not.   The chiffon at sleeves and yoke are totally ripped up and mostly off (or will be soon), one underarm is damaged, and one sleeve is ripped as is the interior (see photos).  If you can replace the chiffon and stabilize the silk, you will have a fantastically gorgeous piece!  The wedding gown skirt has some minor stains, but still in quite good condition, but the bodice of the wedding gown is in poor condition.  Both items Measures:  31" bust, 23" waist, 41" long in front from waist to hem, 53" long in back.  SO.... you are getting TWO gowns, the homemade purse with mirror and poem!  The price reflects the condition, and is basically priced for the beautiful skirt with the wedding skirt, and two bodices thrown in.  NEW LISTING!   FINAL SALE ITEM! $ 465. Approx. - SIZE 0 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5935] Click on image for additional photos!		#5935 - c. 1920s Black Sheer Georgette Chiffon Covered Overdress with Black Beads with 3-Diamensional Bugle Bead "Flowers"!   Art Deco at its best!  Very popular during the 1920s were these open sided tunic dresses meant to be worn over a simple tubular slip.  Changing up the color of the slip with dramatically change the look of the dress.  Wear black slip under, and the dress will just show off its shape and sparkle under lights.  Wear a nude slip under, and you'll see all the details as you see here.  Wear red slip under, and you have that "Titanic Rose's Gown" look, etc., etc.  The special aspects of this piece are the handkerchief open sleeves, the open "keyhole" cut outs at the shoulders, and the incredible 3-dimensional black bugle beaded flowers scattered about.  Hard to show in the photos, and more impressive in person!  The sides close at the hip with one tiny rhinestone "flower" snap. Measures: up to 50" bust/waist/hips (!), 49" long from shoulder to hem. Excellent condition.  I only found one teeny tiny little pull at the upper front (or back as you can wear this frontward or backward - as it's the same either way)... see last photo to see.  A perfect 20s dress for those of just about any size.  Looks great on the size 6 mannequin, and yet will fit up to a size 14/16 or so! Great piece for you yo-yo dieters... it will ALWAYS fit! :)   A lovely piece. NEW LISTING!   $ 1,385. Approx. - SIZE 4 - 16 (nearly one size fits all) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5934] Click on image for additional photos!		#5934 - c. 1900 Brussels Lace Trained Skirt!  NEAR MINT CONDITION! I'm hoping you have a blouse to wear with this skirt, because it's glorious!  If you are really modern, just wear a catsuit under.  Start a new trend on the runway. Guaranteed to get you photographed! :)  If you are slightly more traditional, wear over a simple petticoat of white, black, pink, light blue, or whatever color (each color will give a totally different look!).  The final two photographs I show are over an ecru slip (doesn't come with it).  Would make a lovely wedding gown skirt with a simple bustier bodice (oh, and slip of course!). Near Mint condition (I'd say Mint, but I NEVER say Mint.  Nothing is Mint) !!  Measures:  25/26" waist, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 56" long in back. Gorgeous textile!!   NEW LISTING!   $ 1,745. Approx. - SIZE 6 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5955 - c. 1920's Electric Blue Sequin and Black Beaded Net Overdress!  Another lovely piece, not in perfect condition.  And slightly strange shape... long in front with the bright electric blue sequins on the front sides... and then short to waist in back!  So it's confusing me.  I could even have it backward... I really don't know.  But for those of you who love to create their own pieces with elements of vintage, this is a great place to start!  Comes with a black underdress, but it's quite basic, so nothing to write home about.  Look at all the photos to see what you think you might be able to do with this piece.   It's in good condition, not perfect, but you'll be happy with it.. especially for this price!  47" long from shoulder to hem in front, and 23" long in back.  Open at the sides.  Shown on a mannequin with 35" bust, 25" waist, 36" hips, so you can see how it fits her.  NEW LISTING!   FINAL SALE ITEM! $ 285. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE small (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5419] Click on image for additional photos!		#5419 - c. 1882/1883 Chocolate Brown Bustle Gown Ensemble with Straw Bonnet!  Wearable Size!  How fabulous to have an ensemble outfit!  The photos have been lightened a bit so you can see the details of this wonderful bustle gown, but it's a deep chocolate brown silk taffeta. The bodice is a long polonaise with side poufs and back bustle with gigantic bow and silk fringe. Also has square pleated design at bust, and lovely abalone buttons down front. As usual, there is no upper button as it's meant to be worn with a cameo or other pin at neck. The skirt as wonderful detailing of a quadruple gathered  (like smocking) look at lower skirt, and two mid gathered horizontal designs at mid skirt.  The upper back of the skirt is plain lining.  The gown comes with a matching brown straw bonnet  with satin ribbons, ecru lace and silk ties.   This bonnet is small and meant to be worn at the back of the head.  This outfit actually fits across the upper back (yea!), usually that is a problem with these Victorian pieces, but this fits my back (I'm a slightly narrow-backed, very modern size 4 bust, 33" bust, c/d cup).  Measures: 32/33" bust, 25" underbust/waist (as it's short-waisted), 43" long from waist to hem, 60" long from shoulder to hem.  Quite excellent condition for all pieces, though there is underarm discoloration you will see if you raise your arms, otherwise it will look quite nice if arms are down, and there is the most minor pull of the front waist seams (see photos). Shown with a bustle and cameo (doesn't come with either).  $ 1,485. Gown AND Bonnet Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (small waist), possible size 6 with corseting (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #6992] Click on image for additional photos!		#6992 - c. 1920's Black Silk OverDress with Chinese 3-D Beaded Design! LARGER SIZE!  There are lots of lovely 1920s beaded dresses still around, but every once in a while I trip across one that sets my heart a flutter. Sadly my photos don't do this justice as I can't seem to capture the exciting actual 3-dimensional design.  Yup, the beading is built up in certain areas to create an extra dimension... even without your 3-D glasses!  As you can see, this is an overdress, or I guess more accurately, this is s dress that just needs an underdress / slip as you can see the front skirt is open, and the "v" neckline is quite low!  The beauty of that is you can choose whatever color appeals to you and with just a simple tube shaped underdress with ribbon straps (simple enough for even the worse seamstress to make) you can have a few different underdresses for variety.  I photoshopped the dress to show how it might look with black under, but would look great with red or blue, nude or gold... whatever! Please check out the design elements in the close-up photos which includes Chinese temples, flowers, and weeping branches. Excellent condition with just a few lavender hued blue beads missing from around the armholes. Measures:  up to 40" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 42" hips, 40" long from shoulder to hem.  $ 1,685.  Approx. - SIZE 10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5952 - c. 1900 Long Black Silk Velvet Victorian Jacket with Wide Braid Trim and Heavy Soutache Trim!  WEARABLE SIZE!!  STEAMPUNK!  Here's one of those Victorian jackets that you can wear today and will look smashing even with jeans!! OR your Steampunk look (took me a long time to even know what that was... damn I'm SO out of the modern fashion trends!) What looks like satin in the small photos is actually interesting wide braid trim, and the decorations are deep soutache designs.  Measures:  up to 36" bust, up to 32" waist, up to 37" hips (or wear open as you see on the mannequin for larger hips).   I tried this on with a heavy cotton sweater under and it STILL was wearable for me.  So.... it's not too tight across the back for those of you with normal backs.  None of these Victorian jackets are for you swimmers with wide backs/shoulders.  It wouldn't look good wet anyway!  :) Excellent condition inside and out!  Closes with tiny hooks at front.    $ 495. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6, perhaps a small 8 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5919] Click on image for additional photos!		#5919 - c. 1920's Sheer Floral Chiffon Dress with Black Lace Trim!  LARGER SIZE!  OK girls... please don't try to wear this as the mannequin did without a slip under.  You will be arrested. But all you will need is a simple tube shaped slip (in just about any color - easy enough for even ME to sew a tube with ribbon straps), or a few different colored slips for a variety of looks (black will make the lace disappear, pink will draw out the floral design, nude will, well, look nude, etc.).  The dress has unique seaming (see photos) which you will either love and want to show off, or hide with the right colored slip.  Your choice.  The condition is very good as there are minor pulls at the seams (but I'm very picky as you know), a few stitches needed on the black lace, and the sleeves have raw edges that don't seem quite right to me, so just note that.... and so priced correctly.  Measures: up to 44" bust, up to 44" waist, up to 50" hips!, 46" long from shoulder to hem.     $ 225. Approx. - SIZE 14 or so (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5951] Click on image for additional photos!		#5951 - c. early 1904 Black Silk Taffeta Bolero (or Eton Jacket) with Lovely Ecru Brocade Trim! WEARABLE SIZE!!   Here's your fashion history lesson for the day... An "Eton Jacket" is:  a short black jacket with long sleeves, wide lapels, and an open front.  So... I don't know what the wide lapels have to do with it... seems pretty irrelevant to me, but hey.  So this is a modified Eton Jacket.. OK?   Or just call it a bolero jacket if you prefer.  Black silk taffeta with puffed sleeves.  Simple and basic wardrobe piece, however this one happens to be a bit more exciting due to the Oriental themed figural ecru brocade trim down the open front.  You'll have to look at all the photos to see the details. Wearable size of up to 35" bust (shown on a 35" bust mannequin) and 14" long from shoulder to hem.  3/4 length sleeves. Lined in off-white silk.  At first glance and feel, it's in Excellent condition inside and out.  However, if you look closely, you will see that the hemline of the bolero is worn, and one slit tearing at the seam on one shoulder.  There are no closures (duh) making this an Eton.     $ 235. Approx. - SIZE 2-small 6 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5970] Click on image for additional photos!		#5970 - c. 1880's Lovely Silk Soft Black Cut Velvet 2-piece Trained Gown with Handmade Ivory Lace Trim! WEARABLE SIZE!! Check out the photos of Lovely Linda wearing this gown!!!  It seems to be getting harder to find really nice, wearable, fancy, Victorian bustle gowns... especially a gown with handmade Brussels lace at the cuffs and around low square neckline.  And oh, the cut velvet!!  I have a passions for it, so forgive me if I swoon.  Even the hemline is quite different at the front with two additional rows of pleating of black and ivory.  Nice touch.  I don't know if you can see the simple, but quite pretty ribbons at the cuffs as well.  Measures: up to 35" bust, up to 25" waist (you can always fudge a few inches as it's covered at the back!  Cheating is acceptable!!), 42" long skirt from waist to hem.  Look inside the hemline to still see the original lace dust ruffle.  The interior of the skirt still has the bustle ties at back.   What look like steel cut buttons are reproductions that are SO damn good that they fooled me at first glance!  The original buttons were very similar, but some were missing, so now, at least,  they are all there (yea!).  The hooks/eyes are there to attach the bodice to the skirt.  Excellent condition with exceptions:  There is some fraying at the front near the buttons and a smidge near the waistband (see last two photos). The fraying luckily disappears pretty well in the cut velvet.  And there are a few minor spots on the lace (see photo).  And the very bottom of the skirt is split at the hemline.  So...  if you want a beautiful Victorian gown you can wear to your next event... this is it!  I even have a cut velvet parasol (below) to pair with it, if you want! :)   If perfect condition, this would list for nearly $2,000.  NEW LISTING!   $ 1,285. Approx. - SIZE 2/4, perhaps 6 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5971 - c. 1900's RARE Large Blue and Black Cut Velvet and Black Lace Parasol!  I have a photo of this parasol opened next to my mannequin so you can see just how large it is.  I don't open my parasols all the way, so it's even larger than this fully opened, but you get the idea!!!  So it trying to research this parasol, I type in "cut velvet parasol" in Google and the ONLY listing that comes up is my OWN....as this parasol comes from the same collector as the cut velvet bustle gown I currently have up on the website.  This isn't an exact match but certainly it would look lovely together.  Very good condition with just a few minor defects... there is one tear in the ecru silk lining (see photo), one very small threadbare spot at the top of the parasol (see photo), and the silver handle has some bangs (see photo).  The shaft is black and "nobby", likely wood??  36.5" long.  NEW LISTING!   Also Listed in the Hats, etc. Section.  $ 865.  SOLD on LAYAWAY
[ORDER ITEM #5813] Click on image for additional photos!		#5813 - c. 1870's / 1880's Tan Linen "Motoring" or "Carriage" Bustle Coat or Traveling Cloak or Duster Coat!  STEAMPUNK!  Usually these linen coats are associated with early motorcars... designed long to cover the entire outfit to keep the mud and dirt from soiling the fine clothing underneath. However, this is one of the early ones... so prior to the advent of motorcars, it would have been for an open carriage.  Shaped to allow for a bustle at back, and with the classic 1870's/1880's mantle sleeves.  Now normally I'm a stickler for condition and hate all spots and stains on anything.  However... when it comes to these traveling cloaks, the spots and stains add character!!!  I wouldn't want to see one of these without it!  So I show most of the important spots for you to see. Otherwise it's in great condition!  All the original linen buttons are there, love the unexpected brown ruffle trim, and check out that cape back as well as buttons at back skirt. Please look at all the photos to see all the beauty. Measures: up to 38" bust (but shoulders are smallish), 56" long from shoulder to hem.  Oh, and for all you STEAMPUNK seekers... can't get much better look than this!   NEW LISTING!    Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 585. Approx. - SIZE 2-8 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5946] Click on image for additional photos!		#5946 - c. 1909/1910 Edwardian Dress of Pink Silk and White Lace with Embroidered and Silk Taffeta Waistband!  Such a pretty little thing! :)  This is a photo of the BACK of the dress, but it was so pretty that I just had to show that first.  The front is all white lace with the pink silk almost like a robe over!  Nicely different.  And if you are like me, you are thrilled when you find items that aren't the typical... because after 45 years of collecting, you want to find unique!  That was makes vintage so exciting.... it's finding those needles in the haystack... the items that make your heart go pitter-patter!  So what do ya think of this one??  It's small though Measures: up to 32" bust, up to 24" waist, 48" long from shoulder to hem.  Now it's time for you to look at all the other photos... see the white lace at the sleeves, at the back, down the front... check out the fabulous embroidered design at back belt, and the watered silk taffeta designed waistband at front.  The only issue with this dress is that there is some minor shattering to the taffeta waistband. :(    So, all you small gals... this dress is waiting for you!!!! :)  Due to the length, it was likely a dress for a younger woman or teenager.  But if you like it, just wear with high button shoes or boots and make the short length work for you!  NEW LISTING!   $ 685. Approx. - SIZE 0/2 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5454] Click on image for additional photos!		#5454 - c. 1912 "Titanic" Edwardian Gown of Ivory Silk, Gold Lame and Floral Chiffon! This gown came to me from the estate of a woman named Margarite who was the owner's Grandmother's cousin. The woman was tall and lovely, but never married!  She had a wardrobe of lovely clothing and obviously took wonderful care of them.  I have little other information about her, but from this dress you can see she had some wealth and certainly had great style!!  This gown has it all.  Extraordinary light blue floral printed silk chiffon trimmed in gold bullion lace and embroidery on sleeves and back "peplum".  This is all over an ivory silk skirt gathered up at back with tiny little rhinestones with long double sashes ending in gold bullion  tassels.  There are matching tassels are at front, hanging off the long sheer "scarves" (one tassel has become unraveled - see photos).  To top it all off is the wide gold lame sash at waist with matching huge bow at front. I'd love to know the event she wore this to!  Perhaps to Ascot Races... you know.... with Eliza Doolittle from "My Fair Lady" (Audrey Hepburn's famous gown)! :)   Incredibly, this gown is even in a wearable size (shown on my size 6 mannequin). Measures: 34" bust, up to 28" waist, 59" long from shoulder to hem.  Condition is Very Good, not perfect (but you have to understand that for this to have survived 100 years in this condition is a near miracle!!!).   There are some minor holes in the chiffon/netting (see photos) mostly around the neckline, and there are a few tiny light spots here and there.  Most people would call this Excellent.  But I'm the pickiest person you will find.. I want my customers to say "much better than I expected"! :)  This is wearable only with great care for quick photo shoot or portrait.  But what an exceptional display piece!!!   FINAL SALE ITEM! $ 875. Approx. - SIZE 4, small 6 (so not to stress it) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #6991] Click on image for additional photos!		#6991 - c. early 1920's Black Beaded 2-piece Flapper Dress!  You can wear SHORT or LONG! LARGER SIZE!  Fantastic!!  TWO DRESSES IN ONE!  I found this for those of you who always wonder why I don't have items for those of you who aren't a size 0... of course then I get a few girls saying, "damn, everything I love is too large".   I just can't win!!!!! :(   So I just have to go about my business and hope that the right person finds the perfect dress at the correct time.  If you loo at the additional photos you will see that there is a long underdress with 2-tiered beading at the bottom.  And then a short fully beaded overdress which (if you find another short slip) you can wear as a short dress!!!!   Whoopie!!!   Excellent condition.  The underslip has a side inset that is a different color (I don't know why), but it's unseen under the dress.  Measures: up to 44" bust up to 39" waist (1" below natural waist), up to 44" hips, 36-40" long dress from shoulder to hem, and 60" long with underdress from shoulder to hem.   NEW LISTING!   $ 1,685. Approx. - SIZE 10 - 14 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5945] Click on image for additional photos!		#5945 - c. 1930's BLACKSHIRE Paris, New York Wine Colored Cut Velvet on Chiffon Dress with Brown Mink Cuffs and Rhinestone Ornaments!   I call this my "Bette Davis" dress.  Not sure why it reminds me of her, but it does, so I'm just stickin' to it! :)  Also, I'm adding this dress to the 1920s category even though it's 1930s because I don't think anyone should miss seeing this dress.  I'm sure there's a name for this fabric other than "cut velvet on chiffon", but that's what it looks like.  It's sheer with a deco design all over the dress.  The shape is incredibly unique!  This is one of those pieces for a current designer to purchase to figure out just how it was cut and seamed!  Even the sleeves are unique shape!  As you can see, there is an underslip attached so you show off a little skin even under the dress.  The rhinestone circle ornaments are attached and original in both the front and the back belt.  Excellent condition.  Now, perhaps we should discuss the color.... I can't decide what to call it... wine, maroon, cranberry, ruby.... WHAT-EVER!  Please don't ask me more!!  It looks different in every light, and every computer screen... so if you are trying to match some shoes, I can't help you.  If you just want to great dress, this is it! :)   Measures: up to 40" bust, up to 31" waist, up to 40" hips, 58" long from shoulder to hem.  NEW LISTING!   Also Listed in the 1930-Today Section.  $ 945. Approx. - SIZE 8/10 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5915] Click on image for additional photos!		#5915 - c. 1920's Bonwit Teller & Co, Fifth Avenue, New York Black Satin, Soutache, Figured Velvet and Fox Collar Wrap Cocoon Coat!  This coat was found hiding in the back room of a local theater.... just sitting there waiting for me to pluck "her" out of obscurity.  I then brought "her" to the furrier who replaced the black fox fur collar with a new one, and now she is practically good as new... and damn gorgeous!   Even the furrier kept saying, "Well, you should get a pretty penny for this... it's beautiful!"  I'd say the only thing wrong with her now is the original button is a bit boring, but otherwise... smashing!  Black silk satin covered with a zigzag soutache in a deco design all over, with figured velvet at the cuffs, inner front and hem to look like fur, and then the new black fox fur collar. Bonwit Teller was a top department store, and I've had other lovely 1920s pieces from there, so I know they were fashion forward and probably imported from Paris.  Measures: up to 48" bust, up to 46" waist, up to 46" hips, 45" long from shoulder to hem. As a wrap coat, it can fit just about anyone... meant to be worn large as always with 1920s pieces.  FYI, the new fur collar cost $485 to replace and the fox was selected to have just the right look.  You'll be more than pleased! :)     Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 1,485. Approx. - SIZE 6 - 14, depending how you want to wear it
[ORDER ITEM #5933] Click on image for additional photos!		#5933 - c. 1900 White Irish Crochet Blouse or Irish Crochet Bodice! Wearable Size!  SO Desirable!  I have to call it both blouse and bodice as it depends on what you decide to pair with it.   You can modernize the look with modern separates, or wear it with a long skirt for the correct Turn of the Century look.  If you are REALLY lucky, you already have an Irish Crochet skirt and you've just been waiting for the perfect Irish Crochet blouse to pair with it!  This blouse is in Near Mint condition and in a wearable size!  Whoo whoo!  Hooks up the back.  Measures:  40" bust, up to 31" waist, 17" long shoulder to waistline, 21" long in all. The measurements are large, but you probably don't want to be that size, as it's best not to stress antique pieces.... and it looks quite nice on me at 34" bust, 27" waist (though the shoulders on this blouse are wider than most)!  You will obviously need to wear a slip under - do I REALLY need to tell you that????    $ 875.  Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5926] Click on image for additional photos!		#5926 - c. 1900 Near Mint Condition White Battenberg Lace Over Coat or Long Battenberg Lace Jacket! Wearable Size!  Yowsa.... LOVE this one!  In near mint condition, bright white, and fantastic look and wearable size!  This piece is the perfect length as well to look good over just about anything... from a dress to a gown, to pants or even jeans if you want to go that route.   It can look as modern as anything today to wear over a simple white or black dress!!!  Or look totally antique worn over a long black skirt.  This piece closes at the mid-bust with one hook/eye and if you look at the additional photos you will see that the back skirt is open!  Total slit skirt!  The design, well, the design is as good as it gets. Will fit just about any size from 0 - 10 ... depending how tight you like to wear it, what you wear under, and if you wear open or even move the hook/eye to wrap a bit. Measures: up to 38" bust, up to 32" waist, 15" across back, 43" - 45" long from shoulder to hem (slightly longer at back).  Looks great on the mannequin who is a size 6 (35/25/36).    $ 1,745. Approx. - SIZE 0-10  (Small - Medium) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #7436] Click on image for additional photos!		#7436 - c. 1912 White Cotton Batiste Gauze Fishtail Trained Gown!  LARGER SIZE! Edwardian gown. Titanic Gown.  This gown has lots of possible names, including Gorgeous Gown! :)  This gown can also double for a Regency Era Gown.  The uniqueness of this gown is in the back more than the front, so PLEASE look at the additional photos to see the draped sides which gather at the lower back in an oval shape creating a fishtail train!  There are tiny silk flowers at that oval, as well as on the front bodice.  The edges and yoke are tatted lace.  Hooks at back. Condition is close to Excellent as there is one small yellow spot at the yoke (see photo), and there are wax flowers which will hide a previous extra gather (I think to hide a spot) on the side drapes... but I gotta say... looks even better because of this!! :)  The wax flowers are removed and will be shipped with the dress, so there will be no chance they will melt in the mail onto the dress.  EXTREMELY wearable... very strong material!!  And in a GOOD SIZE!   Measures:  up to 38-40" bust, up to 31" waist (empire), 17" across the back between armseams, 52" long from shoulder to hem, 62" long in back.  SO... this is for a SHORT gal if you want it to reach the ground at front.   OR you can add lace or another longer layer under if you are taller.  Note:  the pink sash doesn't come with the gown, just get yourself a ribbon in any color you like!  Also Listed in the Wedding Section.   $ 745. Approx. - SIZE 12ish SHORT (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6638] Click on image for additional photos!		#6638 - c. 1980's EAVIS & BROWN, London 2-piece Black Silk Crepe Chiffon Beaded Flapper Dress! I hesitate adding this dress to this category as I don't want anyone to think that I believe this to be from the 1920s.... but for those of you who want the look of a 20s beaded dress for a party, but don't want to spend the price for the real thing....  well... as long as you don't wear the jacket with this dress, it will certainly pass for 1920s flapper for those who aren't fashion history grads!   Eavis & Brown is best know as the designers of Heather Mills' wedding gown when she married Paul McCartney creating a huge fiasco (as well as marriage obviously!). If you missed this.. in short, Heather asked Eavis & Brown to create her wedding gown (of course snubbing her daughter-in-law - Stella McCartney, fashion designer). The gown took months to create, and was presented to Heather at no charge (the gown said to be worth 19,000 Euros (that's $25,000!) in exchange for the publicity. However, when asked about her gown, Heather essentially described it as "this old thing" and claimed she had designed it herself! Eek! Anyway... for you, I have a lovely faux 1920's flapper beaded dress of black silk crepe chiffon covered with copper and black beading in deco-ish pattern. No closures will really fool your friends into thinking it's really antique.  However, if you then wear the shoulder-padded matching jacket... it will confirm that, indeed, it's from the 1980's or will look like something Judy Garland might have worn on stage! :) Excellent condition.  Measures:  34" bust, up to 31 waist, up to 37" hips, 42" long from shoulder to hem, 14" slit in dress. Jacket is 26" long from shoulder to bottom. Great price for this top quality beaded dress and jacket!  Also Listed in the 1930s-Today Section. $ 465. Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #5914] Click on image for additional photos!		#5914 - c. 1970's GEORGE R. TAYLOR Co., Wheeling, West Virginia Electric Blue Velvet Flapper Coat!  New to the vintage market from storage in Wilton, CT.  Wilton, CT... where the median income hovers around $175,000.  So these people never skimped! :)  This simple 1920s wrap coat is all about the fantastic color of a bright electric blue velvet.  I think it might be a cotton or cotton/silk blend velvet.  The details are in the ruched sleeves and the large collar to wear up or down.  There are NO closures on this coat.. never were... just meant to be grabbed and held in a fashionable way.   Fully lined in an off-white silk.  Excellent condition with just a slight wear at the very edges of the velvet.  If you get really picky, there may be some thinning, but I don't know if I'm even seeing that or not, and I'm VERY picky!!   There is lots of crushing of the velvet which may or may not be original, but it's attractive as it is.   And I wouldn't say that if it wasn't so!   Only my repeat customers know that.... and there are so many of them, I must be doing something right! :) :) :)  This coat can really fit anyone... but you should be taller than me (5'2") as the sleeves are really too long for me.  Measures: 52" around (again this is a wrap coat!!!), 24" long sleeves from shoulder to cuff, 41" long from shoulder to hem.  This would be a great coat to dress up with huge ornamental closure!    Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 785. Approx. - SIZE 8-16 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #2882] Click on image for additional photos!		#2882 - c. 1905 Edwardian or Gibson Girl White Cotton Lace Half Petticoat!  This is the half-slip I show under some of the recent white dresses uploaded, so if you are looking for one.... you'll see how it looks! :)   This one is pretty basic as these slips go.  Drawstring waist (great as it can be tied to fit just about anyone Small to Medium.  It's 36" long so it won't hit the ground as you see unless you are quite petite, but certainly perfect for  your 1915 era shorter dresses, or just a summer skirt!   Add ribbons or any other decorations! There are lace inserts creating the decoration you see at the lower ruffle.  Excellent condition except for a few tiny spots (see photos) and one teeny hole (see photo) and a 12" long area of the lace is torn at the hemline front (see photos).  Under $150, so Final Sale. $ 145. Approx. - SIZE 2-12 (very petite to reach the ground) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #5666] Click on image for additional photos!		#5666 - c. 1920's Large Heavily Floral Embroidered Shawl!  You can find these shawls for twice this price in Near Mint condition... but if you are willing to give up just a smidge in condition, you can have the same look to either wear, drape on your piano, or on your bed, or, as my mom did... hanging from an antique furniture coat rack for much less. Measures:  58" x 60" nearly square, and that's without the macrame and fringe! So it's 98" x 100" total... so unless you are over 8' tall, you will need to wear this folded over - but you probably knew that already! :) As you can see, it's a lovely grayish bone colored silk base with vibrant embroidery of many red and pink roses, and smaller flowers and vines of various hued blues, corals, greens, purples, and lavender vines. You will notice here and there that silk threads are pulled, and there are a few minor spots (see photos).  These spots are near the center, but if folded over for wear, you won't see them. There are NO holes or anything horrible, and you will be thrilled with it.. but it's not absolutely perfect.  Oh, and you'll have to spend some time combing the fringe, but it's all there! :)   You can find the newer embroidered shawls that look similar, but when you feel the weight of an original 1920's shawl, you KNOW the difference!!!       Also Listed in the Hats, etc. Section.  $ 495.
[ORDER ITEM - #5886] Click on image for additional photos!		#5886 - c. 1920's Black Silk Chiffon and Black Velvet Cape Coat!  I wish you could have been standing next to me when I was trying to figure out exactly how to wear this piece!! :) Pretty funny.  It's designed like a 1870's mantle which was a "retro" design in the 1920's! :)  And then to make it harder, the interior is so beautiful, that it was hard to believe it wouldn't be seen when worn, so I kept trying to figure out how to wear it with the gold braid and smocking at neckline showing.  But finally... I got it.  Unique to say the least!!  Black silk chiffon is draped from the "nehru" collar and there is a slit for your arms to go through (as you see).  The hipline follows a typical 1920s piece and you just gotta love the black velvet trim which just "pops" under the sheer chiffon. There is no closure currently at the neckline, so I just added a rhinestone pin (that doesn't come with it).  You can use anything you have, or just add a hook/eye if you prefer.  Excellent condition.  The only issue to mention (as I'm very picky as you probably already know), it that the velvet neck seems a bit unfinished or something.   Just seems like perhaps a replacement as it's more like black velvet ribbon that was formed into a collar... and yet, it matches the other black velvet so well, that I it could all be original and correct and I'm just looking for things to say! :)   Whatever... it's still a remarkable 1920's cape/coat/mantle! :) Will fit just about anyone small-medium. 48" long from shoulder to hem.      Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section.  $ 585.
[ORDER ITEM - #7193] Click on image for additional photos!		#7193 - RARE c. early 1920's Mohair Flapper "Hair" Cloche with Rhinestone "Barrette"!  I've been selling on this website for 14 years now, and I've only found 3 other 1920s "hair" cloches.  Two metallics (one gold, one silver) and one PINK!  These are quite rare as that means I only find one every 3.5 years! :)  This is the first one I found in a hair color and sort of hair texture... actually a mohair!!   Designed as the others with tight curls at back and a "hair part" at the top.  This one has the addition of a large  rhinestone "barrette" which is attached to the cloche!!!  Wow!  These are usually quite large sized... why? you ask??  Because I believe they were for those gals with long Edwardian hair who weren't ready, or brave enough, to cut off their long locks to have the "new" short flapper bob cut.  So, they used these instead.... and all that hair had to be tucked into the piece, so.. they are large for the normal sized head.   This one looks like it was relined at some point in time, as the white gauzy material inside isn't original... but hey.... not really a huge deal, is it??   The rhinestone ornament has a few rhinestones missing that can easily be replaced if you care.  I'll look to see if I have any replacement stones that fit. I can't be sure I will, so ...   For all your gals (and I know there are many) who collect fantastic flapper headpieces.... don't hesitate!  Excellent condition (other than the rhinestones missing and interior replacement).   FYI, the last two sold for $2,850 and $3,450., so this is a no-brainer!!  Also Listed in the Hats, etc. and Museum Sections. $ 1,865.
[ORDER ITEM - #5876] Click on image for additional photos!		#5876 - c. 1870 Tan Taffeta Button Boots! Likely Parisian!  So sweet for display!  Exactly what you dreamed you could find! The classic-looking fine Victorian evening boot with all the bells and whistles... scalloped tops, scalloped button edging, bows on toes, elegant color and fabric.  The last pair I sold (almost exactly the same, had a Parisian label! Here's the link to those: http://www.antiquedress.com/item6140.htm) These are in Excellent condition, though a few issues... slight early signs of future silk splitting at the back, and one upper bow is missing (the last pair had both upper bows missing, so I didn't even know they were originally there!!).  Incredible condition for 140+ years old!).  Unique inner corset-like closure at foot top which ties (see photos) and then the boot buttons over that! Never seen that before (except in the other similar pair)! Also Listed in the Hats, etc. Section.  NOTE:  last pair are now in a Museum and sold for $100 more! $ 585.
[ORDER ITEM - #5875] Click on image for additional photos!		#5875 - RARE c. 1910-1920 Tatar Boot  (aka Chitek Boots or Ichigi Boots) from Eastern Europe Embroidered Leather Boots! Museum Quality!  OK.... I confess, I had NO CLUE what year to date these boots or how to describe them. Though finding tall embroidered leather boots with this type of heel is RARE to say the least!  I've seen a lot in my 47 years of collecting (yes, I started when I was 10), but I don't recall ever seeing anything like these.  But thanks to an antique shoe expert, these were identified as Tatar Boots, made in the Tatar Region of Russia (Kazan - is the capital of Tatarstan). The boots were traditional Tatar footwear back at least to the 16th Century (though I've also read back a thousand years), but became very popular in Europe, mostly France, somewhere in the early teens and 20s when "a la Russe" was in vogue.  The boots look like they are beaded with tiny seed beads at first glance, but that is stitched multicolored embroidery (see close-up photos) on multicolored leather designs.  Excellent condition with just extreme minor wear on toes and back heels.... but the only real issue is the fact they need a shoe repairman to stitch or glue the top of one of the boots (see photos)... as the plain upper 1/4 of one boot came apart as if it were perforated from the embroidery.  Still... these are SO RARE that I have to call them Excellent (I give a little in condition when items are this unique).  Even the nails look old - square in shape!  Marked "40" at sole, so probably European.  I'm told the previous owner actually wore them, so they are a wearable size (probably size 6ish), but I wouldn't wear such remarkable museum quality boots if I were you (though I'm not).  Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Section.    $ 885.
[ORDER ITEM - #5877] Click on image for additional photos!		#5877 - c. 1880 M.A. CONNELLY, 7 East 16th Street, New York Ivory Silk Satin Bustle Wedding Gown Ensemble!  With Wax Headpiece, Bustle Cage, 2 Petticoats, New Bustle Pad and Veil!  Museum Quality Piece! WEARABLE SIZE! Oh yeah....SO nice for me when these magnificent pieces just come to me from long-time collectors!!  So they are "new to the market" from years of storage. I must confess, I knew just by looking at this gown that it was special, but it wasn't until I researched "M.A. Connelly" that I found just how special!  Sure, there is one M.A. Connelly gown in the Boston Museum of Fine Art, but it's the discovery that our 19th President, Rutherford B. Hayes' wife, Lucy Hayes wore a gold damask and cream satin gown to the White House New Year’s reception in 1880!!!!  Yup!  And not only that, but this was her dressmaker of choice (per Feb. 2009 issue of "Past Times", a publication produced by the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center).  The article reads:  "In January 1880, 'Mrs. R.B. Hayes' went shopping at M.A. Connelly in New York.  There she ordered three new gowns for White House functions.  The receipt shows Lucy paid $300 for a 'green striped velvet' dress, $225 for a 'black brocade velvet' dress, $350 for a 'white brocade satin' dress, $12 for a pair of corsets and $49.50 for lace.  Totaling $936.50 which would be $21,000 today. More information from M.A. Connelly is that she moved her business to 331 5th Ave. sometime between 1880-1892, and according to the NYC Real Estate Records of Dec 4th, 1897, she moved her dressmaking and importer business to 9 West 34th Street. SO.... This gown is exactly at what it would have cost new in 1880 at $350 (1880 price)! And then you are getting the additional ensemble pieces for free!! And the condition is just about that good... nearly like new.  There are a few slight issues (likely replaced waistband, but that's just about the only issue!  Even a WEARABLE size! Measures: 34" bust, 25" waist, 12.5" across back, 40" long skirt from waist to hem, 76" long in back. I can get the bodice on me at size 4/6, so the back isn't too small as are most of these Victorian gowns. I could detail all the details, but I've written too much already, so the photos will tell you all you need to know.  Note: there is a lace trimmed veil that will come with this that isn't original but matches beautifully. If you want a Victorian Wedding Gown, look no further!  Good enough for the US President's wife on New Years Eve!!!   Also Listed in the Museum and Wedding Categories. $ 7,850. Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #5154] Click on image for additional photos!		#5154 - c. 1920's Pannier Dress of Platinum Gray Silk Satin and Lace!  Yes, I've seen quite a few of these 1920's pannier dresses in my years of collecting and selling.  But this one is particularly pretty with the original silk and wax flowers and streamers and matching silk lace "scarves" front and back!  Frankly it's quite rare to find these pannier dresses in great condition!  Usually you find them with all sorts of condition issues... but this is in Excellent condition!  Even the underarms are perfect (so rare for these!!).  The only issue I've found is one of the ribbons was replaced on one of the panniers (the inner wired hoops at side hips). Hardly worth mentioning.  And a smidge of a spot (likely a spot from the wax flowers) on the front waist above the flower which can easily be hidden with a bit of additional flowers.  Easy!! Otherwise it's wearable for your wedding!! (Note: you will see photos with a veil, but it doesn't come with it).  Measures: up to 35/36" bust, up to 30" waist, 34" at 3" below waist (at the seamline), 40-47" long from shoulder to hem. Shown on a size 2 mannequin with 33" bust, 24" waist, 33" hips and looks great on her as well.  NOTE:  no closures, just goes on over the head, so it takes a bit of wiggling to get on/off.  Don't try it unless you have a friend to help you!  You can get stuck! :) Also Listed in the Wedding Section. $ 945.  Approx. - SIZE 2-6 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #4222] Click on image for additional photos!		#4222 - c. early 1900 - 1910 White Fairly Heavyweight Linen Embroidered and Cutwork Jacket! For those of you who love to create your own look using wearable antique and vintage pieces.  Nice, huh?  White (fairly heavyweight) linen cutwork jacket with all the "bells and whistles" including the very wide lapels, the cutwork cuff, and hemline... all with a scalloped edging! The white embroidery on the white jacket is exactly what you look for, and then the "starburst"  and small squared cutwork designs just "pop".   It's a bit of a wrap on this size gal (about size 35" bust), or if you are larger, it would be worn more as an open front jacket.  Wear with or without a belt (to shake it up), and then pair with just about anything from your modern wardrobe to have that antique/vintage flair.  The back has small double vents.  Excellent condition... very wearable.  The only flaw I see is at one back hip where for some reason one of the cutwork holes is enlarged.  How this happened we'll never know, but take a look at the photos.   You can repair (grab a smidge of linen from inside the cuff), or just leave it be. There is one crocheted button to close at front.  Sleeves are longer than most antique pieces.  Measures: 39" bust, 39" waist, 49" hips, 28" long from shoulder to hem in front, and 30" long in back, 21" sleeve (underarm to cuff), 13.5" across back (between armholes).  Can be worn on a smaller gal (me!) just by moving the one button and wrapping tighter.  Or still looks fine worn oversized.   The only question on how large you can wear is your back... but I'd still say size 6 up to size 10. Looks great on! $ 595.   Approx. - SIZE 6 through SIZE 10 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #1715] Click on image for additional photos!		#1715 - EXTREMELY RARE c. 1912-1919 KAPO Life-Saving Ocean Waistcoat! Made by the Kapo Manufacturing Co, 114 Bedford Street, Boston, Massachusetts! Also called "Kapo Kantsink (or Neversink) Garments"!  I have been holding on to this for 12 years now... as it's just so incredibly rare and special. Original came to me from a Maritime Collection estate sale.  In researching, I found this original advertisement showing the exact time I have from a 1915 publication.  This gray pinstripe (cotton canvas?) was meant to be worn by a well-dressed gentleman under his jacket while on-board... just in case! You have to understand... this was designed soon after the sinking of the Titanic... where only 338 of the 1690 adult male passengers and crew survived as it was "Women and Children first" into the lifeboats.  The material is used all the way around (no satin back) with back adjustable belt buckle and buttons down the front.. even comes with two pockets at front.  It's filled with vertical channels of "kapok", a specially treated vegetable fibre that can't puncture (!)... this according to the articles I've researched about this waistcoat and manufacturing company.  Excellent condition with just the tiniest issues.  I found yet another ad that gave the original price as $12 back in 1918... quite affordable for the time!  An original Titanic lifevest sold for $60,000+ a few years ago. Just FYI!  This is a wearable men's size... probably about a 42.   Also Listed in the Museum Section. $ 2,500.   Approx. - SIZE 42 Men's (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #7363] Click on image for additional photos!		#7363 - RARE c. early 1900's White Linen The Simpson Suit, Philadelphia "Sailor" Boating Dress! I have a love of unique pieces.  Some of my favorite pieces are antique sporting outfits... specifically designed for the sport.  Let's see if you can guess what this was used for! :)  Bird-watching?  Nope. Golfing?  Nope.  Tango Dancing?  Ummm... I don't think so.  Boating?  I'd say "Yup"!   Fairly heavyweight white linen dress with all the "sailor" details you'd expect from any Navy uniform.  Double rows of mother-of-pearl buttons at top of skirt portion, "sailor" blue collar with flap back with white embroidered star and edged in white stripes as are the cuffs.  The thin red stripe on one upper arm and an eagle "v" striped patch on other arm.  Unique tailoring (hard to see) on upper bodice... almost Western-ish, and great little red pocket at upper bust.  Excellent condition.  Measures:  up to 42" bust (most upfront as it's slightly pigeon front), up to 28" waist, up to 41" hips, 50" long from shoulder to hem.  There is one button missing (hidden), and one hook missing at waist (I'll try to find one to replace).  There is one tiny hole hiding under the back pleat that I didn't find until the 3rd look!  I LOVE THIS ON ME!!!!! And RARE... yes, did I say RARE???  $ 1,195.   Approx. - SIZE 6 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #6763] Click on image for additional photos!		#6763 - c. 1890 VICTORIAN Jet Black and Gold Glass Beading Bodice on Net with Open Beaded Sleeves! Just when Regal is back (thanks to William and Kate!), this jet bead  and glass gold beaded bodice on black cotton netting looks like something a Princess would have worn!  A tiny Princess.... as it's too small for my size 2 mannequin (should close all the way down the front) but looks just as beautiful like this.  I adore the gold and black bead sleeves which are totally open created from a lattice work of draped beading. And the hemline fringe of black and gold beading.  Very fitted shape, to hip length at front and shorter in back with a small "bustle". Measures:  32" bust, 22" waist, 12" across back between sleeves, 26" long at longest.  Really best for 3-D display but would look equally FANTASTIC in shadow box!!  It's really in wonderful condition, though there are some issues.  Pulling of netting away from collar due to weight (easily repaired) and someone at some point added an extra netting layer for stability at front (hardly seen!), and just a few beads missing in one area (see photo)... again easily fixed with similar beads.   For age and elaborateness, it's spectacular!!!  You'd expect to see a Pingat label, but no label exists.  Put this on layaway for $411/month... and then it's YOURS!! $ 1,645.
SOLD		#5755 - c. 1912 EDWARDIAN Net Colored Embroidered Overdress! This colored net Edwardian overdress is something I haven't seen before.  Sure, I've had many black net overdresses, some Edwardian, and many more 1920s... some with beading, but never colored embroidery!  And certainly never one with a unique "flaming candle" arts and crafts design!  The netting isn't just black, but with metallic bronze as well, and it's edged in tiny bronze metallic balls. NICE!  There are some balls missing, and a few tiny holes in the netting, but my god it's fabulous!!!   Obviously I'm showing the front with nothing under, and the back worn over a black underdress (that doesn't come with it).. but you can wear just about any color under. This will make your plain Edwardian gown look spectacular.  Totally open at sides, it just hangs from the shoulders.   $ 985.  SOLD
[ORDER ITEM #5488] Click on image for additional photos!		#5488 - c. 1920 Steinberg's, Saint Louis Bottle Green Silk Velvet Opera Cape!  OK, I was so surprised when I discovered that this simple shaped cape actually had internal snaps to convert it into more of a "mantle" shape!  The photo at left shows it snapped up, and then the arms just slip through the openings... otherwise, it's worn straight down and just wrapped around the body like a cocoon.  It's like getting TWO capes in one!  The cocoon shape was popular in 1920.  The silk velvet that looks black unless under bright lights is actually a deep bottle green hue.  The bottom half of the cape is a gold metallic thread floral motif design.  Lovely ruffled collar trim of the same embroidery.   And then down the front is a unique "chain" of velvet... one dangle end is missing.  The interior black silk lining is in excellent condition with the exception of the reddish streaks at inner back near label (see photo).  The exterior of this cape is in Excellent condition with the exception of one small area of pulled metal threads (see photo) and some tarnishing of the gold metal to a slight copper hue... you wonder if it was original as it still looks great!   Lovely piece.   Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 895.
[ORDER ITEM #5481] Click on image for additional photos!		#5481 - c. 1860's Pink Silk Satin Corselette with Tassels!  Hard to believe this isn't a reproduction piece.  But I assure you it's not!  Gorgeous pink silk satin corselette trimmed with a darker pink silk satin trim. This came from the same estate of some of the other Victorian pieces you will see on this website.  Excellent condition!!  Incredible!  This was also hand-stitched by a great seamstress from the mid-1800s. Four bones.  Closes in the front with tiny hooks/eyes and then there are two original tassels finishing off the piece.  Lovely!  You have to imagine this piece worn over a very blousy blouse with huge balloon sleeves and wide circular skirt.  I probably should have tried to photograph with those pieces under, but I'm hoping you are smart enough to know what you are seeing here!!!  Pretty sure this would have been an evening piece.... who wears pink satin during the day??? (OK, I confess, I might!!).  Check out the photos of the back now... trust me!  Just as beautiful in back as in the front.  So hard to find these pretty colors!!!  Measures:  32" bust, 25" waist, but it has a 12" back (quite small), so fits smaller than these measurements. $ 445. Approx. - SIZE 0
[ORDER ITEM #5451] Click on image for additional photos!		#5451 - c. 1898 Wedding Gown!  Worn by Matilda Tildenholt. Wearable Size! Yes, this gown came to me from the great-granddaughter of Matilda, so we know for sure about the provenance. The 2-piece wedding gown is fairly plain everywhere but in the yoke... and you just gotta love those cuffs!  The best news is that his is a wearable size!  And I don't mean for just you ultra skinny girls... because this fits me! :)  I'm 5'2" (perfect length for my height without heels) and I'm 33" bust (c/d cup - so smaller back and larger front), 26" waist (though seems to measure up to 28"), 40" long from waist (slightly higher than normal waist) to hem in front, 42" long in back.  Even the arms aren't incredibly tight as you'd normally find with these gowns...  I can actually move my arms in this! :)  So that means... you can reach up and hold the face of your new husband as you hear "you may kiss the bride", AND throw the bouquet!  The gown though isn't in perfect condition... so this is only for you brides that understand how special it is to wear a TRUE Victorian gown.  I've photographed any of the spots and holes that are worth mentioning. And I'm sure you can deal with all of those.  However, it's the fact that the underarms are discolored (only seen in certain lighting) and because of that, they have frayed/holes at underarms.  Because the lining is the same color, they don't show much, but they are certainly there. So... that keeps the price lower for you!  There's always a silver lining, eh? Also Listed in the Wedding Section. $ 425. Approx. - SIZE 4/small 6 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5444 - c. early 1870's Copper Brown colored Silk Taffeta 3-piece Trained Gown! Yup... that's 3-pieces. The button front, long peaked bodice with bellsleeves over tighter sleeves.  The simple, basic trained full skirt, and the separate overskirt "apron" front and back.  All are trimmed in a thin flat matching satin.  A fairly basic, nice piece you can embellish if you wish!   Someone tried to embellish with the black lace attached at the collar (which is old, but I doubt original to the piece).  In Excellent condition. Measures:  31" bust (12.5" across back), 26" waist, 37" long from waist to hem in front, 50" long in back. Surprisingly strong, Excellent condition with just minor blemishes... some tiny pinmarks at front bust (see photo), and extremely minor discolored spots, and underarm stains (see photos).  There are no hooks at waistlines, so I just pinned on.  Nice crochet covered buttons down bodice.  This gown doesn't look like much off a mannequin/dressform, but comes to life when on. I should have used more of a slip at front to fill out, and I used a bustle at back in these photos.    $ 545. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0 (small back) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #7167] Click on image for additional photos!		#7167 - c. 1910-1912 Edwarian PERDOUX Bourdereau Veron & Cie, Place de la Bourse, 132 rue Reaumur, Paris Black Silk Chiffon and Satin Evening Coat! Purchased from B. Altman & Co, Paris/New York! OK Girls... Class is in session!  I've done the research and it's QUITE impressive for this Perdoux label!  First off, from 1896-1900, Perdoux was the 8th President of the prestigious Parisian Chambre Syndicale.  Perdoux SHOULD be better known today as he was mentioned in the same breath as the other top designers of the era.  I found ads to confirm this: A Woodward & Lothrop Store ad from Oct. 12, 1910 from the Washington Herald reads:  "Superb Street and Evening Wraps from Callot Soeurs, Poiret, Gersen, Perdoux, and others".  And during the St. Louis Worlds Fair Expo, the St. Louis Republic Newspaper of Sept 11, 1904 reads: "B. Nugent & Bro. Dry Goods Co. (Nugents Store) Paris Gowns and Wraps - Our grand opening display of imported garments...making St. Louis attractive during the Fair.  We are prepared to supply, all ready for wearing, the most beautiful creations of the world's most noted fashion artists - such as Beer, Callot-Soeurs, Redfern, Perdoux, Drecoll, Paquin and others.  To own a gown or wrap made by one of these masters is a distinction of which even the most prominent leaders of society may feel justly proud. Remember too, these gowns are NOT copies or reproductions, but the original garments, bought from their famous makers by our agent, shipped direct to us, and displayed for the first time in our costume rooms.  Prices on these imported gowns and wraps range from $200. to $750 each." (that's $4,700 to $17,600 today with inflation!!)  And then they went on to price US gowns at $25 and coats at fur trim at $25.  Reproductions evening gowns of Paris gowns were priced $65 - $100.  I also found the Perdoux ad from the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1900.  From the ad, we see he was the fashion GOLD MEDAL winner at the Paris Exposition of 1878, Vice President of the Jury in Brussells in 1897, and Member of the Jury at the Exposition Universelle of 1900.  And older Parisian address was listed in this ad.  The newer address is on the coat label of 132 Rue Reaumur, Paris.  I researched this building and it was completed in 1910 so.... that helps to date this coat as well! Excellent condition, near mint with just one button with some silk loss. Black silk chiffon with Black silk satin trim with loads of black passementerie and lace medallions.  Interior lining is also perfect with a sweet little pocket. Again, near mint condition! Just closes at the lower bust and open from there.  Obviously an evening coat. Measures: up to 39" bust, 50" long from shoulder to hem.   Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 2,845.  Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#3221A - c. 1867 Gray Taffeta 2-piece "Civil War" Gown with Black Braid Trim and Clear Round Buttons!  You might expect to see Melanie Wilkes from Gone with the Wind (GWTW) in this gown! :) Not nearly elaborate enough for Scarlett.  Gray printed silk taffeta bodice with skirt shown over a large hoop crinoline (that doesn't come with it).  In Excellent condition with just minor issues... the black braiding has a bit of wear (see photos), and the skirt needs sewing back onto the waistband in one area.  I have to wonder if the waistband was sewed back on by someone else in the past, as the mark that shows where the front of the skirt usually is, just doesn't seem to be in the right place, so you may want to start all over with the waistband.  Not a huge issue... only daunting for people like me who can't sew!  :)  Love the fact that it has a little watch pocket in skirt (see photos).  There are a few tiny little marks on the outfit, and some light underarm fading, but all in all it's still a good 9 out of 10.    Add a large jet oval pin at the neckline (that's what Melanie would have worn!  :)   Measures:  up to 33/34" bust, up to 27" high waist (higher than your normal waist), 44" long from waist to hem in front, 53" long in back, 14" across the back.  $ 495.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 2 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #7042] Click on image for additional photos!		#7042 - Dated October 5, 1880 Complete Beaded Victorian Wedding Gown Outfit with Original Wedding License and Invitations and Complete Accessories with Provenance!  Includes Shoes, Stockings, Gloves, Photos, Books, Papers, Silver Spoon, Wax Headpiece, Wax Ornaments, and Large Framed Portrait of the Bride, Corrie Emma Lacy who wedded Dr. Lee Herbert Smith in Buffalo, New York. I've never seen a more complete wedding outfit!  And it's not like this is just a run-of-the-mill bride or gown.  Nope, this bride's genealogy can be quickly traced back to the Huguenots in France and specifically to the family of Pierre Fauconnier (his family dating back to the 11th Century at least, and which is said to be "the most ancient and honorable in France). Corrie Emma Lacy (the child of Clark B. Lacy and Emma Sleeper) was born in Buffalo on Dec. 5, 1858 and had one child, Herbert Lacy, born on May 10, 1886.  Her husband, Dr. Lee H. Smith graduated from the medical dept. of the University of Buffalo in 1877, and from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, NYC in 1881 and was the vice-president of the World's Dispensary Medical Association. Obviously the families were wealthy, as this gorgeous white beaded, golden brocaded 2-piece gown will attest.  The gown is in Excellent condition with just the most minor bead loss.  The wax ornaments you see on the front bodice are separate, but were worn on the gown as per the bride's portrait.  All the other accessories are included... the ivory wedding slippers, the white gloves, the silk stockings and the wax headpiece, along with photographs, papers, books, a silver spoon, the original wedding invitations and wedding license as well as the large framed portrait of the bride!  Fabulous for a wedding museum!!!  The only thing missing is the lacings for the back of the bodice (obviously new lacings can be found).  The size of the gown is tiny and short... too tiny for my mannequin (although I photoshopped the back in one photo so you can see how it will look when correctly mounted) Also Listed in the Wedding and 1850-1920s Categories.  Shipping costs will be extra due to the large Framed Portrait. $ 5,850.  Approx. - SIZE 000 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #6954] Click on image for additional photos!		#6954 - c. 1920's FAMOUS FAIN Knitting Mills, New York - Brooklyn Printed Silk Knit Day Dress!  I have to apologize for my mannequin. She was a bit tipsy when I photographed her in this dress.  Too much drink, I'm afraid!  I've tried to warn her that she can't handle her liquor, but she just ignores me. She's a bitch sometimes. :) Anyway.... if she knew I was talking about her, it would go to her head... if she had one! :). Love this label! In researching Famous Fain, seems this company was selected by none other than the Mae West to create the swimsuits for her 1927 play, "The Wicked Age" about a fixed beauty pageant.   There are few day dresses that excite me, but this is one just makes me want to re-watch the 1991-1994 BBC series "The House of Eliott".  If you haven't seen it, get it!  I guarantee you will love it!  If for nothing more than the clothing!!  On to this dress, it's a unique printed silk knit of pale olive with deco flowers in muted colors. The sleeves are silk chiffon as is the edging of the neckline, strip down front and skirt gores.  Measures: 42" around bust, waist hips... yet that's fully stretched. bust, so you can wear it if you are smaller.  It's just a bit large for me at 33" bust, 26" waist, 38" hips... but still I could wear it if it wasn't so long!  At 54" long from shoulder to hem, it's nearly sweeping the ground on me at 5'2"!  So it's better for a taller gal.  You can also blouson it to shorten.  I show some photos with that to give you an idea of how it might look.  Please don't pay any attention to the bad green ribbon I used!!  It's totally incorrect! Excellent condition with just a few minor spots here and there (see photos). Quite a rare piece.   $ 585. Approx. - SIZE Medium/Large - Better Tall! (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6764] Click on image for additional photos!		#6764 - c. 1920's LIBERTY & COMPANY, London & Paris Velvet Coat with Floral Printed Sleeves!  Museum Deaccession!  I just love the look of this coat.... all I can think of is that it was the first "tattoo sleeve" garment! :)  You know those t-shirts they have today.   I figure, back in the 20s, one of the Liberty & Co. designers went to the circus sideshow with their kids and saw "The Incredible Tattooed Woman" and thought... hmmmm, that might make a great coat! Now, of course, tattooed women are everywhere, but back then it was a rarity.  No matter if my made-up story is correct or not, it's a great coat eh?  A soft sage green silk velvet in a cocoon shape with collar that can be worn closed or open, with just one button closure.  The dolman sleeves are actually a unique floral printed heavy woven cotton/linen (like a soft wonderful burlap)!  Oh, and obviously in a lovely muted floral design!  The coat is lined in the palest green satin. There are a few issues to discuss.  There are a few dirt spots on the lining (see photos), but the real issue is a tear on the mid-back collar (which is quite easily seamed to totally disappear), and one small hole in the collar at the side (see photo - this is really the only issue that will bother you), but for such a great coat, just deal with it! :)   Measures:  45" long from shoulder to them.    $ 1,285. Approx. - SIZE Small/Medium (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6768] Click on image for additional photos!		#6768 - c. 1912 Black Sequin, Beading and Lace Trained Evening Gown! Wearable Size! Yup, a 1912 gown!!  Thank God this wasn't owned by a woman who decided to buy a ticket on the maiden voyage of the Titanic... as it would have been on the ocean floor instead of here on my website in all her glory!!  I also have to thank Deborah L. Scott for not finding this gown when costuming for the Titanic movie, because she purchased many, many original gowns from 1912 and then sadly they were trashed in the filming of the movie!!   I remember at that time that so many 1912 evening gowns were bought for the film that there was a dirth of them for quite a number of years on the open market!  REALLY True!  So again... I'm glad this little beauty was neatly tucked away... waiting just for me... and you! :)  Black lace gown teeming with black sequins in a design of swirling fern frond bands diagonally placed to create a feeling of motion even when still! Jet beaded font and back bodice inserts, jet beaded fringe on the short sleeves, neckline and wraps diagonally across the torso. Boned bodice.  Black taffeta lining with ruffled hemline shorter than the gown so one can see the beaded/sequin pattern around the hemline.  Just gorgeous!  Excellent condition however there are a few condition issues to discuss... the black taffeta lining is tearing on the skirt portion only...the bodice lining and hem ruffle are fine... so frankly a fairly easy seamstress job of replacing the mid portion of the lining, or backing for what is there, or leave be and just add another black lining under.  Other than that, there are small net tears to upper (hanger, argh) sleeves, again easy to fix, and browning of the black lace in some areas (again, easy to fix if you must - see photos).  Nothing terribly difficult to deal with... and certainly the look of this gown is worth any of these minor efforts! Measures a wearable: 36/37" bust (perhaps a bit more with care), up to 25" waist best (perhaps a smidge more), up to 40" hip, 61" long from shoulder to hem in front and 75" long in back. $ 2,450.  Approx. - SIZE 4, perhaps 6 (with small waist) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6777] Click on image for additional photos!		#6777 - c. 1926 Mme. Mazzau (?), Paris, New York Rose Silk Velvet Flapper Dress with Coordinating Blue Velvet Cape!!  Even comes with Provenance of Elizabether Goggi of Goggi Brothers Winery, Staten Island!  OH MY!  Even though I seek out items in near pristine condition, there are those pieces that are just SO incredible that I make a few exceptions. Still considered Very Good condition, and since I've never seen another, it's a MUST have! 2-piece set of dress with long cape.  Both items of silk velvet.  The dress is a rose color with bib over bodice and phenomenal 3-Dimentional gathered two-tone look velvet of rose velvet over blue velvet. A large floppy silk flower on shoulder. The cape is that same blue silk velvet with exactly the opposite hemline colorations of blue over rose in graduated 3-D gatherings! Even the lining of the cape is velvet of wide horizontal striping! Just awesome! White fox collar with one button closure. Condition issues entail just overall dusty/dinginess, a few small wear spots in dress velvet, a very floppy shoulder flower, and the cape has matted fur.  Measures:  up to 40" bust, up to 38" waist, up to 39" hips, 42-43" long from shoulder to hem. If pristine it would be near twice this price.  You won't find another one like this soon!!!  Very wearable as is!   $ 1,485.  Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6731] Click on image for additional photos!		#6731 - c. 1910 Bright White Cotton Batiste Lawn Dress with Sky Blue Embroidered Butterflies and Trim!  SO SWEET!!!  Looking for a white Edwardian gown that any girly-girl should love?  Looks like these blue butterflies just happened to lite on this gown while strolling around the manor gardens.  I guess the first thing I should say is that this is in NEAR MINT condition!  With the exception of one small brown spot on back hem that I can find (see photos)... otherwise nearly pristine. Very wearable size and strong. There are open weave lace accents on the tiny collar, the front of the bodice and the bottom half of the sleeves. Wear with or without a matching blue sash at waist (doesn't come with one, but probably was worn with one originally.  The blue butterflies and trim are embroidered on to the dress, not appliqued on. Measures:  up to 38/39" bust, up to 30" waist, up to 37" hips, 36" long from waist to hem, 53" from shoulder to hem.  If you need it longer, just wear a longer white slip under to create another tier... it will still look perfect. Also Listed in the Wedding Category.  $ 785.  Approx. - SIZE 8/10 (smallish hips) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #4714] Click on image for additional photos!		#4714 - c. 1878 EMILE PINGAT, Paris 2-piece Heavy Black Silk Satin Bustle Gown in Near Mint Condition!  EXTREMELY RARE EXTRA LARGE SIZE!  I can't believe the condition of this gown! It's LIKE NEW!! I doubt it was ever worn, and then it was stored in some amazing place that didn't allow for anything to harm it.  You'd swear you went back in time to 1878, except for one missing carved abalone button (damn that one button!).  The gown is 2-pieces. The bodice is trimmed in ivory lace at the neckline and cuffs.  The skirt is shown over a bustle (doesn't come with it) and has nice bustle draping and silk floss fringe.  The hemline is fully pleated and has a "kilting" of magenta pleated satin peeking out from under the black satin - which, according to the expert - proclaims that this gown could not, under any circumstances, be worn for mourning. Actually this expert called this an "at home" gown or as we might know it today, a "hostess gown".  Though I'm not sure why it has that designation, nor why she would have such an expensive gown for "at home"!   Unless she was SO damn wealthy that she bought her wardrobe from Pingat and Worth and Doucet and just had so many gowns that she didn't have a chance to wear them all!!  And even her "simplest" gowns were Parisian masterpieces! Now for the other incredible information about this gown. It's an Extremely Large Size by Victorian or any other standards!  Measures an astonishing 45" bust, 37" waist, 42" long from waist to hem, 66" long from waist to back of train.   Also Listed in the Museum Category.  $ 5,250.  Approx. - SIZE 18-22 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #9971] Click on image for additional photos!		#9971 - c. 1850's Gown of Muted Rose Plaid Taffeta Trimmed in Black Velvet! I have to confess, at first I put this on the mannequin with the hooks in front.. but something was definitely wrong, so I turned it around and voila!  You'd think I'd know better by now... but.... I can always blame it on menopausal brain freeze. Now as for the gown, it's a lovely muted rose colored silk plaid taffeta with great detailing (see close-up photos).  The wonderful bell sleeves are trimmed in strips of black velvet.   Off the shoulder bodice, flat front skirt with gathering at sides and more at back.   Hooks and eye closures at back.  Excellent condition! The underarms are actually quite good!.  There are a few (only a few) true pinholes (seen when holding up to the light.. and one seen without... and then a small area on the skirt of what seems like a faded out area (see photos).  It's nothing of great importance, and frankly I just tried to find it for you in normal light and can't find it!!  Even looking for it!  Measures: 32/33" bust, 26" waist, (high waist - between waist and underbust), 39" long from fairly high waist to hem.  It would fit me but there is NO WAY to get this on, because the armholes are only 10" around!!!  I can't get these sleeves up my arm far enough to get the dress on.  And I have fairly thin arms for my size.  So you will have to be quite thinner than this to get the dress on.  Or... renovate to open the armholes.  For display, it's gorgeous.  And it's very wearable (thin but still strong taffeta) if it will fit you!   $ 885.  Approx. - SIZE 2 (see above for size issue) (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6157] Click on image for additional photos!		#6157 - c. 1895 A. WALLES, 15 Rue Auber 15, Paris Deep Ruby Velvet, Lace and Jet Beaded Caplet! Ah... you should know this label! First off, this came from a collection that included an exquisite Emile Pingat outfit that was also labeled "A. Walles".  Seems that in 1896 Pingat grew tired and relinquished his business to the well-established dressmaking firm, A. Walles  - who  apparently by 1892 specialized in court dresses, including clothing for the Austrian court. This fabulous capelet certainly could have been worn by royalty!  Deep ruby velvet adorned with elaborate design of sequins and jet beads surrounded in a heavy ecru lace and topped off with large black silk bows.  Lined in an iridescent burgundy silk with scalloped edges.  A few minor marks in the velvet, but basically Near Mint condition.  This is one for the museum collection! Check out the photo of the signed Pingat cape from the Costume Institute of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (under all the rest of the photos of this capelet)... I think you'll agree.... this A. Walles is even nicer! :)  Also Listed in the Museum Section.  $ 2,485.
[ORDER ITEM - #6303] Click on image for additional photos!		#6567 - c. 1908 All Lace Princess Trained Gown with Wool Inserts!  OK kiddies.... Like I say all the time, "I try to sell the 'best of the best'"! One look at this frothy confection will likely make your blood pressure go through the roof.  If it doesn't, then you have no business being on this website!  :)  Princess shape, all spider lace gown with high frilly lace neck and train.  The photo at left shows the gown with a white petticoat under the skirt which is why it's whiter than the bodice.  I should have found a full slip for the photo, but hey... I figure you can use your imagination just a bit to see what the gown might look like with various colored slips under.... nude, white, pink, light blue, ecru.... whatever your little heart desires!  Even black if you want to get crazy!  Check out  the close-up photos to see the design detail.  The inserts are a woven ecru wool that no moth has ever found! Hooks up the back. Near Mint condition!  This is short, so a slip with lace at hem that peeks out the bottom will work for a taller gal.  The neck and sleeves are also especially tight, so you might need to add a bit of lace to fit you. For those of you who collect, or display.... you will never find a better lace gown!  Measures:  33" bust, 27" waist, 53" long from shoulder to hem in front, 67" long in back, 11.5" neck, tight arms.   Also Listed in the Wedding Section. $ 2,485.  Approx. - SIZE 0/2 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #9939] Click on image for additional photos!		#9939 - c. 1906/07 RARE Parisian Fabulous Ermine and Lace Coat!  With the Photo of the Original Owner (Willie Mae Thompson Norfleet) Wearing the Coat! Wearable Size!  This coat comes directly from the descendants of the woman in the photo.... the coat was stored for all these years in the homestead and remains in surprisingly Excellent condition!!  There are only a few issues to speak of... other than the missing crocheted button on the front (big deal)... there is one spot on the lace on the lower back of the coat, and the inner barely seen silk is shattering behind the lace at the hemline (see photos).  The silk lining is in great condition (see photos), but the extremely delicate pleating chiffon trim (which hardly ever survives!) was taped together.  This kept it from getting worse, but it's not something I'd recommend! :)  Anyway, I'm leaving as I found it.  You can remove the chiffon and no one would know anything was wrong, but I'd rather leave as much fashion history as possible.  NOTE: The coat was not meant to be worn full-length, but rather to about 7/8 length over a gown, so imagine a gown peeking out the bottom.  Wearable 2-6 size!  Measures: Up to 35" bust, but the back is a bit small at 13" between armseams, so best for a size 2/4 gal with smallish back. Though as you can see, she wore it open!  52" long from shoulder to hem. Until the 20th Century, ermine was reserved for royalty in Western Europe seen on the coronation robes of royal and noble persons.  It symbolized purity, valor, justice and dignity. After that, only the most wealthy could afford something this luxurious!!  This coat comes with the original photo of Willie Mae wearing the coat, and a typed 7-page family diary from 1894-1904 which describes the constant trips to Europe and Paris... and even times when they stayed with Royalty, and Willie Mae's sister Ada's address in NYC which was the prestigious Central Park West... one block from the famed John Lennon's Dakota building!!  I'm attributing the coat as a Parisian Designer Coat as it's nearly an absolute match to the Parisian jacket I have listed below! And I know this family bought most of their clothing from Paris.  Also Listed in the Museum and Furs, etc. Section. $ 5,875.  Approx. - SIZE 2/4, perhaps small 6 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #4321] Click on image for additional photos!		#4321 - c. 1909-1914 JEANNE LANVIN, Paris Black Cotton Velvet Walking Suit with Separate Original Tasseled Sash! Very Old Label!  Labeled in hard-to-read woven gold: Jeanne Lanvin, 22, Rue du Faubourg, Paris. Jeanne Lanvin started her own line in 1909, so this could be one of the earliest known pieces!  Due to the surprising short bolero shaped jacket, I'm having a bit of trouble dating it specifically to year. Purchased at an estate sale from a wealthy New Jersey estate.  An obviously fashion forward, very tailored Parisian Couture skirt suit in black cotton velvet.  The bodice jacket has a lovely rope frog closure and black silk, nicely shaped collar.  The sleeves are long and each ornamented with 7 working velvet buttons. The back waistline of the jacket has embedded elastic and ornamental tabs with buttons on either side. The skirt is ornamented with 37 or 38 working velvet covered buttons down each side of the lower skirt.  The hemline is surrounded with a box pleated "ruffle".  The skirt is a hidden built-in inner wide waistband with hook/eye closures.  There is a separate (I can't believe this remained with the suit all these years!!) black silk sash belt with an amazingly wonderful long green passementarie and huge, long black silk tassel!!!    Measures:  34/35" bust, 28.5" waist skirt, 40" long from waist to hem in front skirt (may have been shortened), and 44" long from waist to hem in back.  The condition is Quite Good with a few fairly minor issues.  The black silk collar is delicate and tearing at back fold, there are 2 covered buttons missing from each skirt side, and 2 missing from back. Extreme minor wear at hemline and some re-tacking needed. All these issues are nit-picky for such an historic piece!  The only real issue is the silk sash which has fairly large holes and pinholes and is delicate.  But the fact that it exists at all is incredible!!   $ 4,250.  Approx. - SIZE 6 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #4732] Click on image for additional photos!		#4732 - c. 1891/92 2-piece Silk Crepe and China Silk Wedding Gown! Direct to you from a museum deaccession - still has the typed collection tag attached.   So if you want items good enough for a museum...... but don't think you are capable of a museum heist, best to shop on my website!  :)  Lovely thin silk crepe 2-piece gown with draping at bodice and skirt.   Hooks and eyes under the bodice draping.  The slightly puffy sleeves are actually different material of just a china silk.  NICE LOOK! Cotton lined so it's still in great condition with just a few minor issues.  Needs some hooks/eyes at collar and waist.  There is one small spot on back that can be tacked to be hidden in the folds. The crepe needs tacking down at the collar (it's pulled away from the lining).  There are a few spots on the silk ribbons (replace or cover), and one small rip at the skirt side (caught on something... not due to deterioration). I'm being picky.  The gown is really strong and in amazing condition for this age!  This gown will actually fit a human today if you are small enough (in other words, the 12" back measurement is acceptable - not that ultra narrow antique back width - it fits my back.  Measures: 31" bust, 25" underbust, 24/25" waist, 40" long from waist to hem in front, 46" long in back (perhaps).  I say "perhaps" because someone let out the hem at back to make a bit of a train.  You could hem back up for no train - and you might want to because there is a dirt line at that hemline (see photos).  Oh, I added the silk purple flowers at the waist... they don't come with it.  I just thought it looked nice.  Museum tag reads:  Mary Gardner. Also Listed in the Wedding Section.  $ 465.  Approx. - SIZE 0 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6229] Click on image for additional photos!		#6229 - c. 1926 YVONNE, Paris Gold Beaded Cotton Net Flapper Dress! Handmade in France! NEAR MINT Condition!  Love the label inside this dress! It's a bit light to see, but it's large and reads, "Yvonne, Paris, Handmade in France".  Now Parisian labeled garments are always great, but especially the 1920s dresses because they were usually beaded onto cotton netting (which is so strong it survives in like new condition over 80 years!) as opposed to chiffon which tended to shatter over the years leaving many a beaded flapper dress in shreds. This Parisian dress is in Near Mint condition!  Great deco all over design of gold bugle beads on gold cotton net and an inner cotton netting to help keep the stress off the exterior.   The gold lame satin bow at the side is original (I just love that old lame!).  No closures, just goes on over the head. NOTE:  to get these heavy beaded dresses off easily, bend way forward at the waist, pull the skirt up and then raise your arms over your dropped head and let gravity help you wiggle out of the dress.  Measures:  32/33" bust, up to 27" waist, up to 36" hips best (smaller hips will allow less draping at the hipline), length will depends on your hip size... approximately 37-40" long from shoulder to hem.  $ 2,285.  Approx. - SIZE 0/2 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #2624] Click on image for additional photos!		#2624 - c. 1910 FOLLER Gowns, Baltimore Ecru Silk Satin Trained Wedding Gown With Silk Fringe - With or Without Beaded Fringe Applique! OK... here's what I've gone and done.  I found this elegant ecru silk satin Edwardian wedding gown with terrific handmade lace yoke and neck, dramatic fringed lace panels at bustline, and silk fringe all over the edges of the gown front and back! So for those of you who love Armani, you will love the gown alone.  However, for those of you (like me) who can't resist a little "Bob Mackie flash"... I pinned on a silver beaded ornamental piece with beaded fringe (!) that echoes the fringe on the dress.  This piece just looks so great on this gown, I just had to offer it with the gown.  So... your choice.. with or without (priced separately). So let's start with just the gown. Please look at the close-up photos to see the detailing!  It's subtle, but great! The gown is in Excellent condition on the exterior! The only thing I could find wrong was a small water stain on the hemline.  However, just like most Edwardian gowns, the lining is shredding and will need to be replaced if you want to wear.  Though it would take a pretty small gal to wear!  The gown measures: 31" bust, 23" empire waist, 13" across back, 13" neck, 57" long in front from shoulder to hem, 67" long in back. Note: the mannequin is 32.5" bust and it fits her just... but she has a tendency not to breathe or move, so you probably want to be a bit smaller.  Also Listed in the Wedding Section. $ 1,175. Gown Alone $ 1,275. Gown with Beaded Piece Approx. - SIZE 0  (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #6175] Click on image for additional photos!		#6175 - c. 1880's Victorian Black Beaded Dolman Mantle Lined in Red Satin! Yeah, OK... so I called this a Mantle as well as a Dolman only because mantle is most commonly known. However, according to the dictionary... a mantle is a "loose sleeveless coat; a cloak"... so... this ain't no mantle... and yet, the fashion magazines of the time called it a mantle! so what's a girl to do???? :)  Just call it gorgeous! :)  Black cut velvet base  covered with jet black beads creating an exquisite pattern.  Large jet black bead medallions adorn the cuffs, and drip down the front of this piece.  Beaded fringe hang off the cuffs and collar.  This is NOT a piece to wear if you want to wave hello, hail a cab or hold onto your hat.  You get extreme limited movement of the arms in this dolmans as they are cut with batwing sleeves. Fully lined in ruby red silk satin!!  Excellent condition with just some beads missing which you'll never find... and one small wear in one shoulder, one small tear at stress point on back "sleeves" - hardly noticeable, but otherwise terrific!!  Even the lining!  Wearable size for today's size Small woman - the backs of these are usually too narrow for humans today.. but this is an exception.  WEARABLE.  Measures: 33-35" bust, 39" long. ! $ 1,485.  Approx. - SIZE Small (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #3984] Click on image for additional photos!		#3984 - c. 1888 Connell, Chicago Black and Taupe/Mauve Faconne Velvet Dolmanette with Ostrich Feather Trim! Every well-dressed Victorian woman owned at least one fancy velvet dolman or mantle.... it was the pashmina or poncho of the times! :) Many were lavish and highly decorated and this is no exception. Some of the photos you will see were lightened to see detail of black velvet, but it's the beauty of the flocked faconne velvet in a highly stylized leaf motif that is so special.. in a pinky taupe and moss green edged in black velvet... has the look of stained glass! Trimmed in black ostrich feathers, lined in black satin. Excellent condition with perhaps some feather loss. Tiny seam tears of lining at collar (see photos). $ 1,150.  Approx. - SIZE (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM - #4455] Click on image for additional photos!		#4455 - c. 1910 Ivory Wool Ratine Ladies Suit! One of the best things about this suit is the label! Classic! Even the typeface is great! Obviously, according to the label, it is true couture! :) "Tailored to measure by The American Ladies Tailoring Co., Chicago." And for all you antique car enthusiasts... the perfect item to wear if you happen to have a 1910 Model T Ford.. aka "Tin Lizzie"! Just add a hat and a pair of goggles! OR... if you happen to be an early Suffragette (the women's social and political group which became known as the Suffragettes in 1909). I'm assuming in the year 2010 there will be a 100-year re-enactment of the Suffragette Demonstration of 1910. in the UK (when, during a clash with police, hundreds of suffragettes were imprisoned!). So.. buy this suit now so you are ready to join in!!! :) Classic S-curve shape ivory 2-piece suit made of ivory wool rating (has a nice diagonally lined texture). Excellent condition!! The jacket is like new! Perfect lining, etc. The skirt has always been unlined. Measures: up to 36" bust, 23/24" waist, up to 35" hips, 35" long jacket from shoulder to hem, 39" long skirt. You can wear with the jacket closed and not worry about the skirt waist so much, or grab your corset and pull tight!! This jacket is looks perfectly modern and wearable!! Or is it just me??? Have I been living too long in the past???? $ 875.  Approx. - SIZE 4 (check measurements above)
From FINEST EUROPEAN COLLECTION [ORDER ITEM - #4492] Click on image for additional photos!		#4492 - c. 1926 Black Silk Charmeuse Wrap Flapper Dress with Bead Trim! This dress stumps me a bit...the bead trim is unquestionably vintage 1920's.. but I wonder if the silk charmeuse is old fabric re-designed into a new dress. There is nothing but a hint that it isn't all original. And certainly it's the beading that is so special... not to mention how SEXY this dress is on! The silk drapes beautifully on the body! And you can size a bit to fit by just changing the snap closure at waist. Get the best of both worlds... the look of a 1920's dress with the shape of a modern designer piece! Measures: 34" bust, up to 32" waist, up to 36" hips, 40" long from shoulder to hem. $ 585.  Approx. - SIZE 2-6 (check measurements above)
		NEXT PAGE - More Items for Sale
SOLD		#5880 - c. 1920's Black Sheer Chiffon Open Coat with Lace Sleeves and Scalloped Edging!  Please note, this is BLACK.  The light blue background makes it look a bit more like navy, but it isn't. Got that?  Oh, and that band you see around the waist is on the mannequin, not the coat.  OK? Geesh, so many disclaimers, I feel like an attorney!! :)  Now, let's get to the piece.  Sheer, BLACK, chiffon and fabulous! There are no closures, it's just the attached long neck pieces that you can tie in loads of different ways that keeps the coat on.   Just throw them around your neck and over your shoulders, or tie at front, or tie at back, or... well, you get the picture.  I've shown it a few different ways.  Love the lace at the lower arm, and then the cuffs and the lower 7/8 of the coat has layers of scallops!! Nice touch!!  Excellent condition with only two of the teeniest of minor prick holes (if you can even call it that) at the upper back, and one at the mid back (see photo), and perhaps slight lace breaks at the sleeves. Measures:   43" long from shoulder to hem.  Shown on a 35" bust / 36" hip mannequin so you can see how it fits her.... plenty of room if you are larger, and fine if you are smaller. Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 345. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4 - 8, perhaps even 10
SOLD		#5811 - c. 1920's Fabulous Gold Lame Brocade 2-Tone Jacket!  I wish this jacket could talk, because wherever it was stored for 90 years was the perfect place for it to remain most all of it's original shine!  SO rare to find these lame pieces without either darkening, or oxidizing.  This one looks nearly new!  Whoo Whoo!!  It's a simple tube shape jacket without any closure at the front... but it's the ruched large sleeves that make this so special.  Also there is an attached short "bow" scarf at one shoulder.  Love the fact that this piece is two-toned gold.  The main body is nearly a platinum light gold, and then the lower 7/8ths is a golden gold... along with the shoulder scarf.  Nice touch! :)  Fully lined in a sheer fabric also in great condition.  Wish it had a label, but none exists.  If you want to find something wrong (and can't you always find something if you are picky enough)..... it's possible that the lining has shrunken slightly so the hemline tends to curl a bit.. could be original, or not... but really hardly worth even mentioning. And, if you have a VERY sensitive nose, there is a slight musty, but a few days airing outside will take care of that.  I'm in the process of building a screened porch so in the future I will have airing capabilities, but for now, it's up to you.  You can fabreeze, but some are sensitive to that, so I avoid it.  Measures: 35" long from shoulder to hem.  Looks fantastic on!!! This is one that is going to bother me to sell!!! :(  I look terrific in it... can it's just the right length to be easy to wear without looking too vintage costumy. Depending on your size, you can wrap at bit at front, or leave open when worn.  $ 1,285.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7457 - c. 1900 Breathtaking Lavender Silk Charmeuse and Chiffon Trained Dressing Gown with Angelic Sleeves! OK... every once in a while, I take photos and this very strange light comes into the room (you can see it just to the right of the right sleeve).  I don't know what it is!  I can't figure out where it's coming from!  So I just have to assume that it's the spirit of the woman who wore these garments.  What else COULD it be??  (OK, I don't really, absolutely believe in this stuff, but who am I do deny their existence?? :)  I'm not surprised this woman would want to stay with this gown.  It's breathtaking!!!  No other word comes to mind. You can call it Victorian Dressing Gown, or Edwardian Coming Gown, or 1900 Peignoir Robe. The color is still a vibrant lavender silk satin or charmeuse with double rows of light pink/lavender chiffon ruffles edging the hemline, collar, down the front, and sleeves.  Satin ribbons tie the gown at the front with no other closures (other than one set of snaps at front just to hold it closed a bit at the belly if you want).  Bows at each sleeve. Condition is Excellent!  I found only two small watermarks on the chiffon hemline (see photo), and any other issues are so tiny as to be nearly invisible. Measures: 54" long from shoulder to hem in front, 84" long in back.  Best for a petite woman if you want it to sweep the ground.  But as you can wear it open, it will fit quite a few bodies.  This is one of those antique pieces that you will hate yourself if you miss it.... and LAYAWAY is available, so you have no excuse for not making yourself happy!  :)  A Gown for a Fairy Princess... like you!     Also Listed in the Wedding and Lingerie Sections.  $ 1,845. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2-8 Petite (to sweep the ground) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#2643 - c. 1909/1910 Ivory Brocade Re-Designed Trained Evening Gown with Rosette Detail at Back!  This gown is a bit hard to date, because it's a re-make of an earlier gown.  You can see the detailing inside the bodice of the original bodice which had a corset tied lacing originally as well as bodice hooks. These still remain inside this dress!  So it's great fun for a fashion historian to figure out what original era this might have been.  Whatever it was, it was remade back in 1909/1910 (this is not a new remake!)... and still has some additional original material.   The gown as it is now was re-designed for a very fashion forward woman who didn't mind being a bit more risque than others at the time... as high necks and longer sleeves were more often seen.   I love the folding of the mid-weight silk brocade fabric across the bodice and around to the back, and then the "tail" over the "v" train (definitely 1909/1910 shape).  Matching satin rosette with trailing ribbons and "blossoms" complete the lovely back of the gown.  Excellent condition... very wearable. Break out the long gloves to go formal!  Wear with smashing necklace or with jewels on the straps at the bows (that's the way I'd probably go!).  Measurements about 31/32" bust (small back!), 26" waist, up to 39" hips, long enough for 5'6" approximate. Wearable as a wedding gown as well!   Also Listed in the Wedding Category.  $ 1,485.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9981 - c. 1922/23 Flapper Dress of Raspberry and Coral Silk Cut Velvet Chiffon! LARGER SIZE!  What a great, and certainly rarely seen, combination of two colors!  Looks like the designer of this dress was dying for raspberry and orange sherbet, or had that for dessert the night before and thought... hmmmm, that would make for an interesting dress!  The dress is a gorgeous silk cut velvet chiffon in something between an art deco and art nouveau design.  Simple straight shape tabard with the side panel of gathered silk chiffon held at the low waist with a rhinestone and metal ornament.  Meant to be worn slightly large.  No closures, just goes on over the head. Excellent condition with just a few issues to mention.... the rhinestone ornament metal has oxidized so it's green in areas (just needs a cleaning) but the rhinestones are still brilliant... and there are underarm stains to the silk chiffon, and a bit of stain and wear on the velvet underarm on the other side. These aren't terrible, but there. Price could easily be $200 higher if perfect. Very wearable as is.  The sheer chiffon slip is attached under.  Measures: up to 41" bust, up to 38" waist, up to 42" hips, 47" long from shoulder to hem with 6" hem.    $ 645.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 10-12 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6952 - c. 1930's Black Silk Charmeuse Bias Cut Gown with Beaded Net Bodice! Museum Deaccession!  From a very well-known fashion museum (who has asked to remain nameless) comes this black silk charmeuse bias-cut gown with the an awesome silver beaded silk net overlay with low "v" necklines and fabulous long draped "v" back ending in long beaded tassel!  So gorgeous you keep wondering who the designer might have been on this gown!  Near Excellent condition with extreme minor details of minor bead loss, small stress hole in net at mid back (see photo) and one light bead transfer on silk below waist back (see photo).  Hard to measure bias cut gowns, but these 1930s gowns are always hard to get on and look great on thin bodies, so I would suggest only you 0-2 gals would be best.  If you email me your measurements, I will let you know if it will fit.  I have to mention that this gown was given a "make over" at one time with the addition of a zipper in place of what likely was snaps.  It's totally hidden by the overlay at back, and frankly you will be glad it's done if you plan to wear this gown, but for you purists... you need to know! $ 1,585. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0/2, perhaps 4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#0252 - c. 1925 Pink Chiffon and Beaded Flapper Dress with Rhinestones! I wish I could tell you that this dress is in perfect condition, but there are a few issues to mention.  Nothing of huge importance, but still, I like to sell items as perfect as possible. I've owned this dress for over 15 years (that will give you some idea of how much I love it!), but it's time to give her a new home.  She's been asking me for years... :)  So...  She's a light pink silk chiffon edged in small rhinestones at the "v" cut bottom edge of the overbodice, and the wide inset waist/him band.  In addition, there is a gorgeous multi-hued pink beaded flower with green beaded leaves on that same band on the hip bone.  Just gorgeous!!!   Measures:  up to 33" bust, up to 25" waist, up to 34" hips, 38" long from shoulder to hem.  So what's wrong with it?  Well, there is slight underarm darkening, some tiny spots (like light greasy sheer spots) here and there, and two pinholes found (see photos for all issues).  Nothing is glaring, and at first look, it's nearly perfect.  It's only when you start inspecting...   Is it wearable?  Yes, with care... as it's small so you don't want to stress it.. so please only you skinny little gals should try this on!  I've loved her for so long, I just want to keep her in one piece for another 85+ years (I feel like her Mother!). $ 565.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0/2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#1664 - c. late 1920's Black Net Lace Beaded Flapper Dress!  Not sure if I can actually call this a "flapper" dress, as that usually evokes the short flippy dresses from the mid-1920s.  But the dresses got longer and longer in the late 20s, and had handkerchief hemlines.  I hope you can see this hemline... look at the other photos to see better.  Great simple all black bugle beaded with a few sequins overdress.  You won't see the black beading unless you look closely... it's just enough to give a bit of sparkle in the right light.  But this is totally understated! Think Georgio Armani for the 20s. Low scoop neck front and back with the hipline you'd expect from this era.  Wear frontwards or backwards... its basically the same, however there is one line of beading that's a bit off, so I've shown it either way... just under the bust or upper back.  If you wear a black slip under this, you won't see anything but a bit of sparkle.  If you wear a colored slip, you get a whole different experience.   Excellent condition with that one double beaded line I mentioned before.  Very wearable. Measures:  up to 42" bust, up to 36" waist, up to 44" hips, 46" - 54" long from shoulder to hem.  This will look great on a smaller body as well.  Shown on a size 6.  And for me, I would just take up the straps a bit to fit me great also size 6. $ 625. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6-10/12 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5919a - c. 1920's Orange with Gray Cut Velvet Flapper Dress! Just in time for Halloween! This is just SO cool looking!  It's an orange chiffon with dark gray cut velvet all over in a swirling "vertigo" design.  The shoulders are asymmetrical with one shoulder being a wide strap of dark gray rhinestones.  These are NOT glittery... they are dull gray and match the gray rhinestone ornament at one side of the dress.  The dress is a "tubular" shape with the addition of the long drape or scarf of the same material at the side.   The underdress is an orange chiffon that you can see at the bodice sides.  Smashing! :)  Excellent condition.  Measures: 34" bust (35" bust tops... but that may be a bit too tight), up to 36" waist, 53" long from shoulder to hem.    There is a snap at the bottom of the "scarf" so you can avoid stepping on it... but I didn't find the other side of the snap... it's somewhere on the dress! :)   The last person to wear the dress tacked the dress slightly at one side to lay nicer.  I left it, but it certainly could be snipped away.  It's hardly even worth mentioning.   $ 845. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0-4, to small 6  (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7213 - c. 1900 Edwardian or Gibson Girl Trained White Cotton Lace OverSkirt!  TI have been holding on to this hoping to find that I had the perfect top to go with it, but alas.... so then I figure YOU might have a blouse and have been searching high and low for a skirt to match it.... so.... let's try to find this "girl" a match.  Perhaps on Match.com??? :)   Perhaps we should start a new website for orphaned separates. :)  Anyway, this all lace trained overskirt is near perfect condition.  I found only one teeny repair (see photo)... and I mean TEENY.   The waist measures 26/27" (with about 2" to increase the waist size if you need it) and it's 40" long from waist to hem in front, and 53" long in back.  Just wear a slip in any color to change the look!  From nude under, to black, to pink... whatever you want. I show it with nothing under, and with white in some photos.  $ 375. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6, perhaps 8  (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#4737 - c. 1920's Wool Herringbone Golfing or Sporting Suit with Belted Jacket and Knickers!  LARGER SIZE!  I don't know why I love to find antique sporting outfits... because I'm a total "indoor" girl who barely moves off her ass.  So what's the fascination for me??  Anyone??  No answer? Well, whatever it is, it allowed me to find this fantastic 1920's sage green/gray wool herringbone (with hint of light blue) suit complete with knickers (!), and that classic "sporting" matching belt over the front pocketed jacket.   Check out the back of the jacket as well... with that belt.  The knickers button at the side.  This is a larger size, but I really can't tell you if this was for a woman or a man, but the buttons assume female....and check out the photos of the similar suits from a B. Altman catalog for women from the 1920s. Sorry I can't sell you this for $39.75, but with the inflation calculator, this would cost just over $500 new!  This suit Measures: up to 42" bust and waist jacket, 32" waist knickers, 29" long knickers, 14" across back between armseams of jacket (which makes it fairly narrow at the back for a man).   Excellent condition!  The only issue being that the belt of the jacket is darkened a bit.  Amazingly, the moths didn't get to this suit!!!  Add the argyle socks and tam hat and you're ready to go golfing.  Go try to find another in this size and condition.... I dare you! :) $ 1,165. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 12, perhaps 14 with smallish back (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#7386 - c. 1928 MADE IN FRANCE Flapper Dress of Black Bugle Beads, Black Sequins and Tiny Rhinestones!  This dress was "mine" the moment I saw it. You girls know what I mean.  It spoke to me. Not a little whisper.  Not a timid, "hey you". But it was screaming, "YOU LOVE ME. YOU MUST HAVE ME!"  And that was that.  I'm assuming I'm not the only one who is hearing this dress calling.  I only wish I could have photographed it better. It's BLACK not blue (as it may appear in some of the photos).  There is a deco designed tiny rhinestone and and beads on black chiffon low "v" neckline.  And what you can't see well is the small peplum at one side of the dress with matching design (see close-up photos). The design  in the placement of the diagonally arranged black bugle beads is killer, which echoes the diagonal, asymmetrical design of the skirt portion of the dress. Fantastic!!!  What you'd expect to find with the best designer label, but sadly the only label is the Made in France.  There is also an "18" which was the size (don't pay any attention... as it means nothing to you!).  Measures: up to 39" bust, up to 36" waist, up to 41" hips, 39"- 50" long from shoulder to hem. But remember, these flapper dresses were meant to be worn large to hide the body and give that "boy" body.  You are seeing the dress on a size 6 mannequin and she looks great, but this will also look great on someone a bit larger. Because this is French, it's beaded on cotton netting, so it's stronger than most.  Wearable (with care ... as are all antique dresses), and in Excellent condition with just a few sequins/beads missing (you can easily move a few around if necessary) and the tiniest pull on the chiffon at the neckline.   These issues are extremely minor for such an intricately beaded dress!!  NEW LISTING!   $ 2,145. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5772 - c. 1915 EDWARDIAN White Cotton Batiste and Lace Overdress... Maternity?! I don't know for sure, but from the measurements and the cut of this dress, I have a feeling it's a maternity dress!  I added the light blue satin ribbon to make it look a bit more fitted, and certainly can be worn by non-pregnant gals.  You will see the large measurements, but these are mostly the front of the dress, the back and the shoulders are still fairly small.  And the dress opens up at the front side with buttons so can be opened to breastfeed. So...   Measures: 40" bust, up to 40" empire waist, up to 60" hips, 49" long from shoulder to hem.  The dress itself is a thin white batiste (thin and sheer, but still strong), all edged in a white embroidery.  Tiny crochet buttons at the yoke.  This dress is only 49" long so it can be worn at this 1915 length, or if you prefer, you can wear a longer underdress of any color.   Lots of options.   Condition is excellent except for a few very minor light rust spots (see photo)... hardly worth mentioning.  Pretty piece!  $ 525.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (with larger measurements at front) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6017 - c. 1920's Coral Beaded Flapper Dress!  LARGER SIZE!   For all of you who always ask me, "wasn't anyone larger than a size 6 in our nations history?" :)  Well, the answer is, "sure, but those dresses seem to be harder to find".   Perhaps they were just worn more often as they fit more people through the years, and therefore they wore out?  Just speculation.  Anyway... look what I found for you!  A lovely beaded coral chiffon flapper dress designed to look like the beads are real turquoise, coral and pearls (but they aren't).  They are painted to look real. Excellent condition with 2 pinholes found, a very few missing beads and wear to paint on beads,  and minor tiny spots in front bib and back skirt.   Measures:  43" bust, up to 43" waist, up to 46" hips, 48" long from shoulder to hem.  Goes on over the head, no closures.  You will want to wear a slip under as it's semi-sheer, but other than that.... it's ready to wear... and surprisingly strong for a chiffon dress from the 1920s.  Often 1920's chiffon deteriorated over the years from bad storage.  Whoever stored this did a great job!  Now it's your turn to enjoy it! $ 1,145. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 12/14, perhaps a small 16 (check measurements above)
[ORDER ITEM #4103] Click on image for additional photos! SOLD		#4103 - c. 1880 Museum Quality 3-Piece Dark Plum Taffeta and Embossed Deep Garnet Velvet Bustle Gown! Extremely Rare Find! Hard to believe this outfit found its way back to me after 6 years, but I think it understands how much I love it, so just like a lost puppy...! :)  You won't believe this! So hard to find! A three-piece bustle gown of bodice, bustle skirt and jacket/coat with long tasseled back! Wow! All in near mint condition! And... with 18 "killer" buttons of hand-painted design on mother-of-pearl. The materials are a plum silk taffeta with contrasting garnet silk embossed velvet on all the pieces. The skirt is a masterpiece in itself with pleated hemline, ruffles just above and fabulous asymmetric draping. Shown with a bustle cage under which doesn't come with the outfit. The jacket/coat is so rare... just take a look at the back of this piece! Long "v" cut velvet tasseled decoration hanging down the back from a ruching at the top. Large bell sleeves. Large pockets at sides. Double-breasted buttoned front with those amazing buttons! Take a look at the close-up photos. And what is most amazing is that I can't find anything wrong with this outfit! Near Mint condition! Measures: 29/30" bust, 23" waist, 40" long from waist to hem. NEW LISTING!   Also Listed in the Museum Section. $ 2,450. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5881 - c. 1929 "LBD" Black Silk Chiffon Gown with Flyaway Panels!  With Attached Slip! Yup, thanks to Coco Chanel there were LBD's (that's "Little Black Dresses for those of you who are too young to know) back into the 1920s.  This one is from the late 1920s as the dresses were getting longer through handkerchief hemlines and/or longer skirt "scarves"... looks great when you walk!  I'm showing the dress as it would look on a short gal, but if you are taller, it will still look great with your ankles showing.  Measures: up to 35" bust, up to 34" waist, up to 38" hips, 55" long from shoulder to hem.  The slip is attached so all you need is a great necklace, perhaps some great bracelets, and shoes.  Oh, well, perhaps some undies as well would be nice.  Check out the photos to see the details of the seaming, gathering at the waistline, peplum and that great back panel "tail".    Meant to be worn loose at the waist as you see.  Excellent condition.  Ready to wear to your next event!   Always wear vintage with caution, but this is quite sturdy as silk chiffon goes. $ 545. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 2-6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7212 - c. 1906 Slightly Trained Edwardian or Gibson Girl White Batiste Embroidered and Cutwork Lawn Dress! LARGER SIZE!  Also called "whites" or "lingerie dress" for all you Googlers.  This dress has the pigeon front (blousy) to give you a touch of the "S" curve that was so popular in the mid 1900-1910s.  First thing to mention is that I show this dress with a white Edwardian lacy drawstring half slip which doesn't come with the dress, but is available if you want to purchase.  OK?  Got that??  Now check out the measurements: up to 40" bust, up to 34" waist, up to 44" hips, 17.5" across the upper back between armseams, 54" long from shoulder to hem in front, 63" long in back.  The 1/2 length sleeves are lovely as well....slightly puffy with "v" lacey cuffs.  So look at the photos to see all the embroidery and cutwork....even on the skirt.  I personally like the lacy waistline on this dress, as some of these dresses are a bit sloppy at the waist so you have to wear a sash... not this one!!!  Nice!! :)   Closes with tiny buttons at the back (I need to find a few more as some are missing).  The condition is Excellent, nice white (with just a few light areas of spots - see photos), and strong enough to wear... though always remember these are 100 years old, so please don't wear to play tennis or ride a horse. OK?  THANKS.  Think croquet.... or summer wedding. If it's too short for you, you can wear a longer slip under to peek out at the hemline, or wear smashing lace-up booties for the Victorian/Edwardian look!   Also Listed in the Wedding Section.  $ 495. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 10/12, perhaps 14 (Petite if you want it to hit the ground) (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5874 - c. 1926 MAGDELEINE des HAYES, 6 Rue de la Paix, Paris Black Net and Lace Flapper Dress!  Parisian Flapper Dress! According to mapquest, Magdeleine des Hayes was an 18 second walk down the street from the world renowned House of Paquin at 3 Rue de la Paix.  This will just give you some idea of how prestigious this label was back in the 1920s!  Obviously an import dress to a store with the name of AGASTA, 1213 Connecticut Avenue, Washington DC (haven't been able to find any research on that store... so if anyone knows anything...).  BUT I DID find one old advertising for Magdeleine des Hayes dresses from 1926, and modeling photos of her dresses (see photos)!   Even before I found the label inside the dress, I knew it was special.  Just had the look of a high-fashion dress from the era.  LOVE the coral beaded and rhinestone half-moon ornament a the front.  Black lace in a highly scalloped or spear shaped hemline and the sheerness of the dress with the decorative slip attached under.  Would have been quite sexy. The skirt has 5 layers of sheer material!!   Sadly, the dress isn't perfect, but I'm very picky, so unless things are near mint, I get cranky.  Look at the last photos of the dress to see the minor issues... there are two spots that are hidden under one of the black silk ribbons down the front (see the photo with the spots covered and with the spots shown), a couple of small additional spots not covered, and then there are the small netting tears under the arms and the worse one is a vertical tear at the side of the dress.  An experienced tailor/seamstress can make these things practically disappear, but since I can barely sew on a button, I sell as it is (otherwise I usually sew my pants to the dress by accident....  it's not a pretty sight! :)  Measures: up to 42" bust, up to 39" waist, up to 40" hips, 42"-49" long from shoulder to hem. Remember this is a 20s dress so meant to be worn loose. A RARE Parisian dress!   $ 1,465. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 8/perhaps 10 (up to 40" hips is the key measurement) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4650 - c. 1905 White Eyelet, Cluny Lace and Embroidery 2-piece Linen Gown with Matching Bolero! WOW! Amazing and ornate embroidery and lace. Very strong and wearable. Tons of French knots, eyelet and embroidery. The dress is two pieces... the skirt is attached to a sheer net short-sleeved blouse,and then worn with a sleeveless bolero jacket. The pieces are clean and white and ready to wear! Excellent condition, can't find a flaw! It was soaked clean by the previous owner, so it should stand up well to continued soaking! The dress seems to have much handwork. The pink sash was just added by me... not included. Measures: 36" bust (net stretches), 27" waist, 55" long from shoulder to hem, slightly longer in back. The bolero can be worn open or hooked at center closure. If worn with a petticoat, it will give it just the right period look.. I just forgot when photographing to give it that correct volume. Waaahhh! However, I think you can use your imagination! $ 1,450. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6/8 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7043 - c. 1926 Black Beaded Flapper Dress on Cotton Netting! LARGER SIZE! Another great black beaded flapper dress on cotton netting!  Yeah!  I love these and I only wish I could insert little mini videos of these dresses rather than photographs as you really need to see this move a bit to appreciate the sparkle of the beading.  This is a fairly subtle one, but still shines in the light as you move!  As far as I know, all the 1920s cotton netting overdresses like this one where Made in France or Made in Belgium.  They are the best, as the cotton netting is extremely strong, so they are usually still in near mint condition (as is this dress!).   Since it's slightly sheer, it will need a slip under.  These 20s slips were just simple tubes with ribbon straps, so simple to make!  You can even wear a long slip so this will be a tunic length.  Note the fabulous design of these beads and on the bodice... with tromp l'oeil long "necklaces" ... giving that Chanel look!  The front design is nearly exactly the same as the back, but the "necklaces" are "v" shaped rather than "u" shaped.  Love the various length slightly handkerchief hemline! Measures: 40" bust, up to 36" waist, up to 42" hips, 42" long from shoulder to hem. There is one area at the mid-skirt at the side of the dress that seems to have been re-beaded by black beads that aren't exactly the same, so they shine more than the others. Kind of cute, frankly! It's mostly a horizontal area the length of my pinky and the shape looks like Bermuda!!  Really that's all I can think of!  And then there is a small area at the dropped waist at the side that has lost some beads.  Probably where you can easily place a flower or other great deco ornament to look FAB!  I can do it if you want!  If you are more like an Armani or Chanel girl then you will love the understated elegance of this beaded dress!  $ 1,185.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 8-12 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6812 - c. 1915 White Organdy Summer Party Dress with Original Blush Pink Slip!  How cute is this little number?  Incredibly crisp and beautifully white.  Practically like new!  LOVE the latticework edging at the sleeves, front, hemline and shorter at sides!  Simple ecru satin waistband... ooh, and then that great original spray of hanging flowers!! See the close-up photos to see all the detail!    Not much else to say, just the perfect little 1915 summer dress.  VERY wearable size!  Measures: 35" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 48" hips!  But as you can see, looks great on the size 6 mannequin as well.  The measurement of the bust is actually about 38/39", but I don't think you will be able to get this dress on with a larger than 35" bust, 41" long from shoulder to hem.  Snaps closure.  Blush rayon slip comes with it and is original. So pretty you could wear this to a wedding... as a simple wedding dress, or for your bridesmaid. Also Listed in the Wedding Section.  $ 465. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5779 - c. 1923/1924 Beaded "Flapper" Dress of Light Saffron Colored Fine Cotton Netting with Floral Oriental Deco Beading!  This dress is very hard to describe.  The color first of all.... the closest descriptive color I can think of is a light saffron.  It's not maize, or pumpkin, or squash... or maybe it is and I just hate vegetables! Depending what you wear under (as it's fairly sheer) will change the color a bit anyway... but you get the idea from the photos.  Now even the beading is indescribable.  It's not deco, or nouveau, but like a combination with a twist on Japanese cherry blossoms with little white trellises! :) .  This is one of those dresses that was likely French, as it's a fine cotton netting... and most of those were from Belgium or France.  The shape of the dress isn't really "flapper" as I think of those as the shorter, sassier dresses of the mid -late 1920s.  However, this is from the early 1920s.... long and tubular.  But I need to say more.  The side hips of this dress had some elastic so it would bunch up a bit at the hips, and was likely worn with a ribbon and ornamental flowers as you see.  But the ribbon sash and the flowers don't come with it, and the side elastics are stretched out, so the dress now wears straight, more like 1924.  I am leaving the choice to you if you want to replace the elastic, or just add some to the inside.  1/2 length sleeves, rounded neckline.  Condition? There are a few beads missing (but very few) and minor minor tiny spots and a bit of messy side seams (likely opened up at one point) and one hemline issue (see photos).  All the issues are very minor, and because it's cotton netting, it's still VERY wearable!!  Measures: up to 40" bust, up to 40" waist, up to 41" hips, 51' long from shoulder to hem... meant to be worn large, so it looks great on this size 6 mannequin as well.  DON'T HESITATE!!!  This is priced RIGHT!!  $ 545.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5812 - c. 1920's Pastel Print Crepe Chiffon Flapper Dress!  Fully Lined!  Yup, ready to wear to your next 1920s party, or for any summer outing.  Nice tropical feel to the light blue and coral large print.  The only issues I can find is that the lining shows lower than the sheer dress, so that can be hemmed up a smidge, or leave as is. There are extreme minor pulls and one lining seam that needs a quick resewing (I'll do it if you ask, but I have two left thumbs! - see last photo).  If you are sensitive, there is an ever so slight musty order, but easily fabreezed (if you have no problem with it), or just allow to hang outside in the breeze for a few days.   It's really very minor!!!!  No closures, just goes on over the head and has the original peach rayon satin attached slip.  Measures: up to 40" bust, up to 40" waist, up to 46" hips, 42" - 47" long from shoulder to hem with asymmetrical hemline  Great price for a great 20s flapper dress.  To fancy it up, and break up the busy print, I'd add a very large ornament or flower at the side waist front, and perhaps even on the opposite shoulder, as you see on the dress above.  These both came from the same estate, so she loved this style of the "flippy" skirts!  $ 345.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-8 (always wear 20s dresses a bit large) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4718 - c. 1915 Gray Silk "Suffragette" Suit with White Embroidered Blouse and Hat!  LARGER SIZE! Gray silk summer walking suit with black silk trim and black straw hat with original trim of gray silk to match the suit.  The suit didn't originally come with the hat, nor the blouse, but I'm selling as a complete set because it just works so beautifully together!  The suit was purchased nearly 20 years ago at Molly's vintage clothing show in Massachusetts, so the "M. DiGesu - Springfield" label is presumed to be from Springfield, MA.  A perfect outfit for a suffragette look!  I show with slips under, but probably need slightly better shape slip to show off the shape as well as keep the pleats intact.  I only wish you would wear the jacket insideout, as the jacket lining is just superb!  Check it out!!  Lined in a wonderful silk black and ivory checkerboard with nosegays of roses in a simulating a needlepoint style!! So cool... even has a small pocket inside!   Great detailing and seaming to the entire outfit.  And in your SIZE!!!  Measures: up to 40" bust,  31" waist skirt, up to 45" hips, 34" long skirt.  Everything in Excellent condition with just a few minor issues... most important is the inner petersham (waistband) of the skirt has a few breaks and should be reinforced, replaced or strengthened if the suit is intended for wear. but doesn't affect the outer appearance of the skirt.  One button on sleeve has the inner black section missing, so you can either just remove and have two buttons on the sleeves, or use one of the buttons on the waistband of the skirt.  If I was uber picky I could say there is the teensiest variation in the gray color on the shoulders that you wouldn't see unless I pointed it out, and tiny spot (see photos).  The simply perfect hat is black straw with a natural straw color under brim (!) and wide gray silk band around crown.  Hat is quite large for a large head or for lots of hair stuffed into it.  Measures: 23.5" interior!  Included in this outfit is a period white batiste blouse (with correct size 46" bust), with embroidery in a meandering ribbon pattern with large collar trimmed with lace as are the cuffs.  There is a bit of damage tot he lace on one cuff.  $ 825. for complete outfit!  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 12/14 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5613 - c. 1910 White Lawn Dress with Lace Inserts!  This dress came from the same estate as the other 1910 white lawn embroidered "Arts & Crafts" motif dress below.  This one is a bit dressier with the various lace insets tiny ruffle 1/2 length sleeves, embroidery, and crochet lace insert around neckline. Still in great condition and bright white.  Measures: 32/33" bust, 25" underbust, 23" waist (slightly high), up to 37" hips, 52" long from shoulder to hem (so it's short.... even on me at 5'2" tall, but just wear a longer petticoat under to stick out the bottom and it will then be the right length!). Excellent condition with the most extremely minor leg breaks.  $ 465.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5612 - c. 1910 White Edwardian "Arts & Crafts" Designed Summer Lawn Dress!  If you know who William Morris is, then your probably will love the design of the embroidery on this gown!  If you don't know who he was, but still love the look... go Google his designs! You'll thank me. OK, so now to the dress.... near pristine white with white embroidery, high neck, 1/2 sleeves.  The pink sash is just my little addition (doesn't come with it), but I think this dress looks better with it.  Perfect enough to wear for your informal summer wedding. Or for your next Edwardian event as it's in a wearable size! Yeah! Measures:   34/35" bust, 24/25" waist, 12.5" neck.  Sweet crochet button back (you will need a friend, lover or maid to help you on and off with this!). There are only 2 tiny holes in this dress, which will disappear when you wear over a white slip (which, as you can see, you will need).  Otherwise, excellent condition.  $ 435.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4548 - c. 1935 Black Crepe Gown with Rhinestone and Beaded Bodice in Butterfly Design! Larger Size!  I always seek out great larger sized gowns for this website... but they are very hard to find. So.. when you see them... pounce! I tried to lighten the photos enough for you to see the shape of the gown.  The bodice is hard to miss... fully beaded in silver bugle beads and tons of thinestones.  The sleeves are open at the sides but cover everything you want to cover as they hang to the elbow.  The back is a wide vertical strip of rhinestones, which matches the design on the sleeves.  The front... well, the front is designed in a artistic butterfly!  NICE!!!  The black crepe skirt has a wide waist front and back with tiny buttons up the back (OK, I didn't button them all, but they are all there).  And then a gathered back to give the impression of a train.  NICE!!  This gown isn't in perfect condition, but certainly quite wearable... especially as you would likely wear for the evening so the very minor pulls and light faded red spots (see photos) won't be seen.  There is a bit of rust on the rhinestones in the mid-front.  With a bit of scraping, or cleaning, it will come off.  Only other thing is a slight mustiness for those who are finicky.  GREAT SIZE... Measures:  up to 44" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 40" hips. Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category.  $ 685.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 12/14 with small hips, large bust (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5879 - c. 1905/1906 House of BEER, 7 Place Vendome, Paris Black Silk Chiffon Trained Gown with Gold Sequins!  Belongs in Museum! Gustav Beer opened his Parisian Couture House in 1905 (after years of designing in his native Germany), so this is one of his first gowns from Paris! I'm speechless (and that doesn't happen often!).  I can't believe this gown just came to me out of the blue... not from a museum deaccession, but from an individual collector who purchased this "many moons ago" when gowns of this quality were still found outside of museums.  Trust me... it rarely happens these days.  As fabulous as any of the gowns you'd see in the museum photo books (see the gown photo from the New York Metropolitan Costume Institute!  I like this one lot better!! :).  The kind of piece I never thought I would ever find... and then.... well... TA DA!  Even the condition is fantastic!  Sure, the inner chiffon lining is going badly from the inner puff sleeves, and there is just a bit of pulling of the material off the waistband (from the weight), but other than those minor issues, it's nearly mint!  Love the gold sequins in the standard round shape, but also in a open pointed oval shape on ecru lace appliqued with black chenille.  Please don't wear this, as it really is an important enough piece that it should be babied.  But for mannequin purposes, it Measures: 32" bust (most upfront... she was well-endowed!), 25" under bust, 22" waist, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 54" long in back.  I've taken loads of photos so you can see all the details... including the very wide black velvet attached waistband, the design on the sides of the puffy sleeves, the pretty metallic tie at front bodice, even the interior bodice thin ribbon, the two gold and rhinestone buttons at back, and the surprising purple chiffon ruffle at lining hemline!! Also Listed in the Museum Category. $ 8,500.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7360 - c. 1910 Huge Off-White Ostrich Feather Fan with Celluloid Sticks!  Someone must be hording all these fabulously large ostrich fans because they are getting so much harder to find... and believe me, I'm always on the lookout.  Sure, I can find them half this size, or new ones (that just aren't the same!), but these "full body" antique fans are getting pretty rare.  I show the size of my fans up against my dressform so you can see how much of the body it covers.. from your shoulder to your upper thigh (unless you are an Amazon)!!  Take an exotic dance class and dance behind this fan! :)  If you want to use it, you don't have to open it all the way... and if you want to play Elise McKenna in "Somewhere In Time", remember, she had a large white feather fan! :)  OR just leave it all the way open on a fireplace mantle for a unique decoration!  Excellent condition, with just a hint of spotting at the very edges of a couple feathers (see photo)... and if you are REALLY picky, note that this fan isn't fully white.... but you will love it!!  I sold a similar fan with these same white ostrich feathers and celluloid sticks that was from TIFFANY & CO!!! These weren't cheap when new. Measures: 16" tall x 27" at widest. Also Listed in the Hats, etc. Section. $ 425. SOLD
SOLD		#2364 - c. 1908 Light Gray Linen Duster Motor Coat!   Are you one of those lucky ones that owns a 1908 motorcar?  If so, you probably have been looking your whole life for this duster coat!  For the rest of us who own early 21st century vehicles... you probably don't need this to keep our Edwardian gown from getting mudsplashed... but if you if you love this website, you probably want it anyway! :)  Just so perfectly evokes the era of the early horseless carriages.  This coat has the typical grease spots you would find on just about any motorcoat of the era (see photo for example).  But basically this is one of the cleaner coats!   Oh and look at the wonderful shiny silver buckle at the back! Abalone buttons. One button is missing from the bottom.  Measures:  56" long from shoulder to hem in front, 58" long in back.  So... break out your goggles, head scarf and if nothing else you have a great Halloween outfit! :) $ 445.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9891 - c. 1925/26 T.A. Chapman Co., Milwaukee Afternoon Dress and Coat Ensemble of Black Rayon and Steel Beading with Steel Beaded Scarf! When I first saw this ensemble it was balled up into a box and just looked like hell (can I say word on my website without upsetting anyone)?  Then I got around to steaming and mounting on the mannequin and what d'ya know!!!  It's a quite exciting looking set!!  Let's start with the dress.  It's a black rayon chiffon dress of 2 layers... sheathe under with steel beaded low round neckline and matching beading on short sleeves.  Dress is lined all but yoke and sleeves.  Then there is an attached overlayer that looks like a long vest of set pleats!  You can wear the dress straight and use the long matching chiffon scarf (beaded near ends) as a neck scarf, or wear the dress cinched in with the scarf used as a belt sash!  Gives the dress two very different looks.  So as if the dress isn't great enough, it comes with a black rayon (20s was pretty much the first decade using rayon to any extent in clothing) wrap coat of a stitched down design to mimic pleats, a horizontal braiding at the lower skirt  and actual pleating under.  The tie wrapped coat can also be worn different ways... with tied neck or not.  Just imagine the lucky flapper gal wearing this outfit with her bobbed hair under her cloche, grasping her clutch purse and sashaying like Marilyn Monroe in "Some Like it Hot" in her T-strap shoes!   OK.. what's next.  Oh yes, condition information. Excellent condition with just a few minor issues.  Just a few of the beads on the sleeves are a bit rusty (cleanable if you care to take the time with sandpaper), snaps missing on coat cuffs (sleeves meant to be worn fuller than you see creating a lovely shape) but really the only issues worth noting are that the top-stitching on the coat has come undone here and there, so just a bit messy looking (see photos), and there is a bit of musty smell that should be aired outside or fabreezed (but again, I leave that choice to you!). Otherwise this is a just fabulous 1920's afternoon or dinner ensemble!!   Measures a large up to 40" bust, up to 40" waist, up to 42" hips dress.  Coat measures up to 51" bust, waist and hips! Both pieces are 48" long from shoulder to hem. Meant to be worn large, and the coat meant to be wrapped as you see.  Scarf measures:  6" x 98". $ 785.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 8-14 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6155 - c. 1904 White Dotted Net Lace Lawn Dress! Lovely one-piece white cotton dotted net and lace lawn pigeon front dress with great ruffled lace yoke. Shown over a white petticoat and pink sash that don't come with the dress.  Dress has a sheer gauze cotton lining to make it a bit less sheer, but will still need a slip under and a belt/sash.  Go white, go nude, go colored... change the look as you wish! Excellent condition.. you'll see a few net breaks here and there only if you look for them, but 10 seconds each with a needle and white thread and they will disappear. Still strong, very wearable. And beautiful! Damn... fits me like a dream!! Measures: 33" bust (up to D cup is fine),  25.5" waist, 55" long from shoulder to hem. Hooks and eyes and button at back (extremely minor rusting at hooks INSIDE hardly worth mentioning - so why am I??).  Great on me at 5'2".  The only thing I guess I would mention for you perfectionists, was only discovered when I tried it on.  Seems perhaps someone realigned the skirt with the bodice and it's just slightly off.  Again, 10 seconds by a seamstress to re-gather in the right place and re-sew.  So easy I could do it!  And I can barely sew on a button.  I just don't have a sewing machine, so... I will leave it to you.   Still very wearable as is if you don't care.  Also Listed in the Wedding Section.  $ 545. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#7347 - c. 1883 3-piece Bustle Gown Visiting Toillette with Partial Additional Bodice!  Near Mint Condition!  Oh my goodness!  What a find!  Direct from the attic in Excellent condition!  A 2-piece bustle gown of velvet, silk and fringe deep deep eggplant (the colors are lightened so you can see detail), with matching fancy coat with silk fringed hemline, along with an additional matching silk bodice without sleeves.  4 pieces total with a small piece of additional material!  I don't know where to start to describe this complete outfit.  Really!  Just look at all the photos. Please remember, these photos are lightened.  The actual piece is a deep, dark eggplant that will look like a dark reddish brown under regular lighting.  Under bright lights, it lightens up!  Near mint condition!  I found one tear inside the sleeve of the coat, the inner lining dust ruffle on the skirt has a tear (inside only!!), and obviously the sleeves of the "vest" (likely was a 2nd bodice or evening bodice) are missing (with the extra material, you could create short cap sleeves). Measures:  Bodice: 35" bust, 12" back (so it fits like a 31" bust, 24" waist.  Skirt: 26" waist, 45" long from waist to hem in front, 57" long in back.  Vest:  31" bust, 25" waist. Coat: 34" bust, 28/29" waist.  The dress is shown over a bustle (not included).  This is one extraordinary outfit!  The coat is wearable by me (size 4/6) so if the gown doesn't fit, you can still wear this incredibly gorgeous coat.    $ 2,250. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0/2 gown and 4/6 coat
SOLD		#5479 - c. 1881 Bustle Gown of Light Gray Lightweight Wool!  Yes, it's a lovely form, isn't it?  The early 1880s bustle gowns were quite form fitting from the front with moderately sized bustles.  However after 1882, the skirts started to get wider and the bustle just kept getting larger until 1887/1888 when a women's form could easily have been mistaken for a female centaur (if you don't know what it is, you haven't read Harry Potter, or studied mythology)!  Anyway, back to this bustle gown. It's a light gray lightweight wool 2-piece gown of long fitted bodice with large ruffled "v" bottom, over a beautifully gathered tiered skirt with matching gray satin stripes at bottom and elaborate gathered bustle arrangement at back.   The gown is in good condition, but there are some small problems.   There are minor small moth holes here and there, and spots here and there.  The white/gray ribbon trim is dirty, and there may have been something at mid-front collar (beside wearing a large pin - which obviously was worn there due to the pinholes).  The gown is not in the pristine condition I like to sell items in, but it's certainly better than most out there, and has clean underarms (where usually you can find problems)!  And for those of you who aren't as picky as I am, you will be quite pleased!!  Measures: 30" bust, 23" waist, 25" ribcage, 12" across mid-back, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 44" long in back.  $ 465. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00
SOLD		#5491 - c. 1925 Embroidered Dress with Pink Silk Slip and Pink Chiffon Gauze Sash/Scarf!  OK.. I guess first I have to say that the beaded floral ornament I used in some of the photos doesn't come with the dress, but just to show you how it might look with your own ornament! Next, I have to say "WhooWhoo!!" I'm always on the lookout for these fantastic 1920s net white embroidered dresses, and this is one of the best I've seen!  In near mint condition... really!  Like NEW!  And perhaps the most heavily embroidery of any I've sold...ever.  As you can see, the front looks like a 2-piece dress, but it's really one-piece sheer overdress with the pink silk slip under.   The terrific pink chiffon sash fits across the back and then drapes down at one side in a "double tiered" chiffon gauze scarf.  Gotta love the lace scalloped hemline, the filet lace sides, short sleeves.  Shown on a 35" bust mannequin so you can see how it looks on her, but measures: up to 38" bust, up to 38" hipline, up to 46" hips, 46" long from shoulder to hem. Perfect for a 20s wedding dress as well!!   n. $ 1,945. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-8 (best to be smaller than measurements for 20s dresses) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#2827 - c. 1910 Edwardian Black Bugle Beaded Over Tunic on Cotton Netting!  I probably should have photographed this over a pastel colored silk gown... which is what it would have been worn over so I'm just asking that you use your imagination.   Perhaps I can try to hypnotize you to see what I see..... "you are getting sleepy.....sleeeeppppyyyy.... "  Is it working??  If you don't see that image, perhaps you can imagine this in a more modern look... just worn over a simple sheathe dress! That would be gorgeous as well.  This black beaded overdress piece just closes at the front at the waist... which could be done with an ornamental pin, or just a hook/eye.  Shown on a mannequin with a 35" bust, 25" waist.   If your waist is larger, you could still wear it more open at the front by using a frog closure or something similar.  Excellent condition with the exception of one area with minor leg breaks of the netting (see photo - located on the side midway between underarm and waist), and I found one other area on lower bust that was a hole but someone sewed together.  This is still 99% perfect!  You could perhaps wear this the other way around... I photographed it both ways.  LOVE that scalloped hemline!!!  Have fun with it!  $ 785.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0-6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6874 - c. 1926 Beaded Flapper Dress of Spring Green Silk Chiffon!   If you are like me and love to see great colored flapper dresses.. what do ya think of this great spring green silk chiffon studded with clear beads all over bodice and edging the double tiered petal skirt!  Not perfect, but I couldn't resist such a pretty piece.  There is some minor repairs at the hemline, and a bit of weakness at the shoulders, and here and there minor spots.   This is not a dress that is falling apart.. it's just not as perfect as I like to sell.  There are no closures, just goes on over the head.  Fits on the 35" bust mannequin, but probably better not to stress it, so better for 34" bust or less. Attached beaded ornament at hipline. As you can see, the bodice has a built in camisole (yea!). Measures:  up to 34" bust, easy waist, up to 38" hips, 44-44" long from shoulder to hem.  $ 565. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2/4 - small 6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7367 - c. 1922 White Lawn Dress with Blue Embroidery Lace Inserts!  EXTRA LARGE Size!  Well now... great white cotton lawn dress from the early 1920s rather than the Teens... cool!  What's even cooler?  It's a EXTRA LARGE size (extremely large for the era!!).  It can measure: up to 48" bust, up to 46" waist, up to 52" hips! But someone gave it a simple baste so it now measures: 44" bust, 40" waist, 43" hips, but as you can see it can be worn larger, or since these dresses are meant to be worn oversized, it can be worn by a slightly smaller body.  Either way... this is a hard to find size in a GREAT dress!  Measures:  52" long from shoulder to hem.  In addition there is a sweet double yarn tassel hanging from the blue hipline sash at the back.  This blue matches the lovely blue embroidery detailing all over with lace and white embroidery as well.  And for a bit of extra panache, there is a "handkerchief" extra portion of the skirt at one side near the tassel.  Nicely fashionable for the era. Puffy short sleeves.  Snap closures are hidden at the front.  Excellent condition.  If you search, you will see extremely light underarm line, but it's hardly seen... trust me, I'm picky! This is the dress you've been waiting for... and it will FIT YOU! Whoo Whoo!!!!  If it won't fit you, find that friend of your who loves vintage, but never thought they would find something to fit them.  $ 965.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 18/20+ (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7007 - c. 1920's Goldtone Metal Flapper Deco Headpiece with Faux Pearls!  In my years of collecting, I've actually sold probably 5 of these, so I'm assuming they they were quite popular in the 20's.  Probably was the "must have" of the era... kind of like the Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress of the 1970s.  Either that, or I keep buying back the same one piece over and over again!  Gosh, I hope not! Too embarrassing!!  No, I think my first assessment is accurate (and even if it isn't I'm stickin' to it!).  Even though I've had a few, I seek them out and I have to tell you, they are getting MUCH harder to find!!  So if you want one... don't hesitate.  I might be running out of "flapper headpiece luck".  Adjustable slightly hammered goldtone metal bands at the top to fit anyone.  Faux peals draped from the movable bar. ... so they shimmy when you Charleston.  The perfect accessory for your next 1920's dressup. The three headpieces fold into each other for easy packing.  There is an overall patina and is less shiny than it looks in the photos (under bright lights). Normally, or at least in the others I've had, there is a green enamel drop in addition to the pearls.  They are missing on this headpiece, but I've seen others where people have just added other drops (as the hardware is still there and ready for whatever you want to add.  Or keep changing the drop to match your outfit :)  Make it a positive... oh, and because of that, the price is $100+ lower than the last few I've sold.  Excellent patina condition. Can be slightly bent by hand to match your headshape (I know because I tried it! :)  It was a bit large, so I squeezed it gently and now it fits me great... so if you have a normal head size, it's ready for you!   Also Listed in the Hats, etc. Section. $ 875. SOLD
SOLD		#5486 - c. 1920's Tri-color Pink Silk Chiffon Flapper Dress!  With Original Lace Trimmed Slip!  From the same estate as the gold lame jacket above, comes a super fun flapper dress!  The "skirt" is actually three layers of square scarves in three different hues of pink/coral that will move with you (too bad I don't have a fan going in this photo).  Great condition and ready to wear to your next 1920s party, or for any summer outing.  The dress is trimmed in gold bullion "braiding" with tiny little leaves appliques and two "flowers" at hip and shoulder.  The chiffon dress closes with snaps at one side... the attached slip has no closures so just goes on over the head.  If you are sensitive, there is an ever so slight musty order, but easily fabreezed (if you have no problem with it), or just allow to hang outside in the breeze for a few days.   It's really very minor!!!!  Measures: up to 38" bust, up to 34" waist, up to 40" hips, 44" - 47" long from shoulder to hem with handkerchief hemline  Great price for a great 20s flapper dress.   $ 485.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2-6 (always wear 20s dresses a bit large) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#3876a - c. 1891 Afternoon Reception Gown of Olive Green Ottoman Silk with Matching Brocaded Cut Velvet! LARGE WEARABLE SIZE! Near MINT Condition! I wouldn't normally look twice at an olive gown... with my olive skin coloring... but... The color is prettier than in the photos... slightly less yellow (I hate my camera.. oh well).. See the close-up photo of the sleeve... that's the closest to the correct color! Anyway, this is exquisite! Only one word to use. Opulent!  Heavy ottoman silk for great weight forms the basis, but it's the brocaded velvet (like cut velvet) that raises this gown to the level of Worth Couture. Please look at the close-up photos! Small velvet hanging balls outline the wide cuff sleeves, and squared lapels. Bodice is also trimmed in black lace which echoes the black lace underbodice over ecru faille silk to "pop" the design. Near MINT condition, inside and out. And in a VERY wearable size! Measures: 40" bust, 37" bodice waist, 38" skirt waist, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 46" long from waist to hem in back. Note:  this is slightly lighter in the photos than the gown... in normal light it might appear brown, but it's obviously olive in brighter light.  A Masterpiece!! $ 1,785. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 12/14 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4332 - c. mid-19th Century Woven Paisley Shawl with NO Plain Ground! Museum Quality and Condition! You know Pashmina shawls.. every women has one. Well, as per fashion historian Meg Andrews,... for 100 years from 1770-1870 it was the paisley shawl that was in fashion! The reached the height of popularity in the mid-1800s when the skirt became huge... and every better class trousseau included one! From 1840-75 the shawls were made much larger to cover the skirt. As is true with so many fashions.. once shawls had become affordable so every woman could own at least one.. nobody wanted to wear them! Not to mention they didn't look so great over the "new" bustled gowns. I've researched a lot of paisley shawls, and have found few better than this! Exquisite and vibrant colors (olive-brown, red, yellow, white), wonderful design, good size, shawl and fringe in near mint condition, etc. Measures: 68" x 69" with 4" border and 3.5" fringe. There is nothing that isn't paisley! No center, no solid grounds... 100% paisley design! Likely English in origin. The only issues are one dirt round spot near an edge (see 6th photo) and extremely slight wear to one tiny area near fringe edge (see last extreme close-up photo). If you have a collection of antique clothing, it is not complete without a paisley shawl.. and since I know you want the best... here it is! $ 945.  SOLD
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6758 - c. 1870's Trained Pale China Blue Wool Twill Morning Gown with Watteau Back and Two-Tone Embroidery!  Damn I've found some pretty stuff lately!  I guess I still love what I do, as I am excited about offering such wonderful pieces.  Imagine waking up and slipping into this beauty to sip your morning coffee!  Especially because that means that you were wealthy enough to employ a few maids and servants to fetch you your coffee! :)  The color is close to that perfect Tiffany blue color wool twill embroidered with off-white and light blue silk floss all over the place in a small floral pattern.  Gotta love that watteau back,  the two pleated side pockets,  the knife pleated hemline, daisy embroidered buttons down front, and the interesting "overcoat" tailoring at front.  Measures: 30" bust, 23" waist, 50" long from shoulder to hem in front, 71" long in back. Condition is Very Good... not perfect, but I'm extremely picky and others would call it Excellent. There are extremely light discolorations or fading here and there, and a few tiny spots. These issues are hardly important... but what you will find are two old professional mends on the sleeves (see photos).  They blend in well, but they are seen.   Also Listed in the Lingerie Category. $ 1,385. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7275 - c. 1920's Lace Dress of White Cotton Batiste and Filet Lace!  Oh my god, this dress is in such fabulous condition, and so beautifully white that is is like going back in time!  It came to me from Europe (so she's already a world traveler!). This dress can be worn for a simple day dress, or a second wedding dress, or even if you find the right longer underdress, it can be a wedding gown tunic!  I've shown it with and without a long pearl necklace just to dress her up.  Also you can ornament the hip sides with wax flowers, or silk flower decorations. Various color slips will change the look dramatically! You'll think you have dozens of different dresses in one!   Measures:  up to 38" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 42" hips, 42" long from shoulder to hem These 1920s dresses are supposed to be worn a bit large, and can certainly be "cinched" at the side hips if you want it slightly more fitted. Near mint condition! $ 865. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5420 - c. 1890 Victorian Coat of Bottle Green Wool and Soutache!  Wearable Size! One of the prettiest wool Victorian walking coats!!  The soutache is embroidered all down the front  and upper back, as well as on the back skirt and those fantastic sleeves!  Designed in a modified peacock feather design... especially on the skirt.  Short high neck, bustle gathered back, puffed upper sleeves of a matching heavy faille.  Fully lined in matching bottle green silk (still in quite good condition).  So now I have some good news and some bad news.  What do you want first... oh, perhaps I teased it above... this Victorian coat is in a rare wearable size (yea!), however, that's partly due to the fact that someone moved over some of the crochet ball buttons (see last photo to see the original location) and at some point in time there were some matching (but slightly darker) patches on the front (see close-up photos).  Very well done, but you can certainly see them.  So for the perfectionists it might be a problem, but for the rest of you, you will be thrilled to have a coat of this quality and fabulous look.  In addition, there are some minor moth nips, one of the buttons is missing, and has very minor wear of the silk lining.  You can see from the lining photo of the back neck that there used to be a black label on this coat.  Emile Pingat used a black label in this location and shape, and also used a similar peacock shape design on his 1891 mantle in the Opulent Era book, so let's just assume it's Pingat and go from there, eh?? :)  Who knows, this could be an incredible find!!  Measures: 32/33" bust, 25" underbust, 26" waist, 53" long from shoulder to hem.  The width of the back is usually the problem with these Victorian pieces, but this fits my back (I'm a slightly narrow-backed, very modern size 4 bust, size 0/2 waist, 33" bust, c/d cup).  Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 985. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0-4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6795 - c. 1930's Gold Metallic Lace Evening Gown!  Yeah, I know... this is in the wrong category listing, but I figure my customers who like 1920s items, will want to see this! :O  Breathtaking gold lace evening gown with "v" neck front and extremely low "v" neck back with flouncy shawl collar. Skirt has 6 attached scallop flyaway panels for fullness sewn along one side to dress and extending 7" below skirt hem!! Awesome! Self fabric belt with rhinestone buckle (rhinestones are cloudy -see photos - but the buckle can easily be replaced with another if you care).  There are underarm stains (see photos - one side worse than the other), and some lace leg breaks creating small holes above and below the waist (see photos).  So although not perfect, this is just too too beautiful! Would be priced higher if perfect, so for those of you who can make the necessary repairs as needed, or don't mind the minor underarm issues.... you'll be happy you can afford a gown like this!!  Wear a any color slip under.  I would prefer a nude slip, but the previous owner wore a green slip... so whatever you like... the look will change with the color of the slip. Nearly impossible to measure as it's open back and bias cut, but shown on a mannequin of 35" bust, 25" waist, 36" hips, 57" long from shoulder to hem (though that will change on the bias).  So if you are close to that size, it will fit you.  Best not to stress the lace too much more than this, though the waist can be larger. Also Listed in the 1930-Today Section. FINAL SALE ITEM so it's sold in as great a condition as possible! $ 785. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2-6, perhaps small 8 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5163 - c. 1920's Art Styled Floral Cotton Day Dress with Incredible Cutout Sleeves!  Love this label (love all antique/vintage looking labels!  They just evoke the eras so beautifully!).  I sell few "day" dresses as I find most of the daywear boring.  But either my taste is changing, or I'm finding a few really cute items lately.  If it wasn't for the sleeves, this might just be considered a "housedress" from the 20s, but those SO cute sleeves (which look a heck of a lot better if you actually HAVE shoulders) make this dress too special for home.  Probably just a lovely mid-summer dress for a picnic or some other casual event. Ruffled "u" neckline, cap sleeves and 2-tiered ruffled skirt. Measures: up to 36" bust, up to 30" waist, up to 42" hips, 48" long.  It's on the size 2 mannequin because there are no closures - just goes on over the head - therefore you will need to be agile to get this on and off.  Best for a smaller girl than the measurements above (as most 20s dresses are meant to be worn slightly oversized to give the woman a boyish figure), and you'll want smallish upper arms.  Light blue cotton tie at waist. Pink, light blue, white and a touch of gold floral design of daffodils, daisies, and tulips!  So sweet!! Excellent condition.  $ 285. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-6
SOLD		#5421 - c. 1905 Royal Blue Silk Velvet Winter Bodice!  Wearable Size! Oh my, how gorgeous!!!  In most lights this will be a deep royal blue velvet, and then in bright lights you will see the undertone of royal purple.  No velvet today can compare with the velvets from this era!  They often have an undertone.  OK, so where to start... first this is a padded bodice so it would have been for winter months.  The lining is a gorgeous ivory satin, but under that is a layer or two of batting, so it's slightly pillowy!  Then (as you can see from the photos) the wide waistband is attached which gives that "pigeon" front popular of this era.  There is matching braid trim, silk tassels and gold lame braided ornamental buttons.  The front is a double panel of ivory silk floss embroidered flowers edged in gold metallic/lame braid.   The back is as beautiful as the front.  Has a small collar and 3/4 length puffed sleeves. At first look, you'd call this mint condition... however, upon second look, if you look under the arms you will see discoloration and one underarm as about a 1" tear that would need to be patched (though unseen unless you raise the arm).  In addition there is one already patched circle area on one sleeve front (see photo).  Measures:  35" bust, 26/27" waist. Wearable size, although when you aren't wearing this, this is the one you will want to hang on an hanger and a pushpin on your bedroom wall (as I used to to!) so you can look at it every day and wake up smiling.  $ 495. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/small 6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4485 - c. 1925 Black Silver Beaded Flapper Dress in "Tassel" Design! Made in France or Belgium! LARGER SIZE!  Oooh baby!  Absolutely thrilling in person!! There is no way to capture the beauty of the dress because it's in the movement as the light captures the silver and white beading! The dress weighs a very heavy 4 pounds!!  SO get to the gym so you don't wear yourself out wearing it! :)  Black cotton base with millions of silver and white beads in trompe d'oeil tassel like design. Another gem from the incredible European collection of flapper dresses I was lucky enough to pick through and pick out the best of the best!  These Parisian flapper dresses were created on cotton bases so they survived in Near mint condition, and will easily survive another 80+ years! Measures: up to 42" bust, up to 38" waist, up to 42" hips, 42" long from shoulder to hem. Near mint condition. $ 2,485. SOLD Approx. - 10/12 perhaps 14 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#7170 - c. 1927 Flapper Dress of Blush Pink/Peach Silk and Lace!  This is one of the great ones! :) It deserves some oohs and aahs from the crowd.  So... go for it!  I actually get emails from customers telling me that they make so many actual sounds of joy when browsing through my website, that their men/partners come over to make sure they are OK! :)  Now that's the power of gorgeous vintage!! :) This dress is a blush peachy-pink silk charmeuse, ruched at the low waistline with rhinestone "buckle" at front.  The elliptical hemline is fab, lower in the back than front.  And then comes that terrific front panel of embroidered gold and nude net lace which also wraps around to hint through at the underarms and at "v" back.  A flashback to the stomacher and open robe gowns of the late 18th Century. The last three photos were meant to show you the condition issues, but they are so small and light that you really can't see the fact that the skirt has some fading in the folds and there are a few tiny spots on the lower bodice.  In addition some of the netting has deteriorated from the front lace panel, but it still looks great.  Measures:  34" bust, up to 31" waist, up to 39" hips, 41-48" long from shoulder to hem. No closures, just goes on over the head, and 20s dresses were meant to be worn slightly large, so... you might want to be slightly smaller than the measurements.  A simple gorgeous piece!  $ 1,265. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6897 - c. 1913 Edwardian Platinum and Gold Lame Brocade Trained "Hobble" Gown! Be still my heart!!  If someone where to ask me what my favorite look, color, design and material for an Edwardian gown would be... this is it!  I adore gold lame!  I melt over the huge floral designs! And well, having an original trained hobble gown (which were quite rare as they were nearly impossible to wear) in this fabrication is just the ultimate for me!  I sold a similar gown a few years ago that was owned by Mrs. John G. Bullock (of Bullocks Department Stores) who obviously would have had the very best of the best as the wife of the store founder.  The bodice just simply wraps around the bust with flat straps.  The beauty comes from the asymmetrical wrap skirt with weighted sides and squared train.  Don't expect to easily walk in this gown, but if you plan a portrait, this is killer!  The condition of the exterior of the gown is Excellent, with only a tiny bit of oxidation, it's mostly quite wonderful..... certainly better than most of these lame gowns that had tarnished.  Even the underarms look great.  Sadly I have to report that it is the silk lining that is problematic. It has been patched and repaired, and will need to be relined at some point.  But this is a small price to pay for such a great gown!  Measures: 32-34" bust, up to 25" waist (24" underdress), 60" long from shoulder to hem in front, 76" long in back.  $ 1,745.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0-4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9972 - c. 1870s Princess Front Bustle Gown of Two-tone Sage Green Silk Taffetas with Tassel Trim One-piece Gown!  Yup... another great bustle gown in a wearable size!  My favorite thing to find! :) Actually that's not true... I prefer 20's headpieces, but hey, I'm not on a lie detector machine! Two-tone sage gray/green taffeta of one piece (looks like two).  Love the diagonal detailing at the front. I'm having a little trouble dating specifically.. but I think 1876-77?  I might have expected more of a "mermaid" trained back with this front?  I'm just showing my ignorance now... or perhaps it's just those menopausal symptoms of forgetfulness that everyone talks about?  Now, where was I?  I wish I could tell you that this gown is in the same nearly pristine condition that I mostly try to sell.  However, this piece has had perfectly matched gussets under the arms, and still there are underarms stains.  There is some minor spotting here and there, and some simple tacking that needs sewing (I could do it and I can't sew!), and a few tassels missing at the front, but most all are there everywhere else!  Basically however the material is strong and the gown is wearable. Inside the hemline you will see much wear, but that's INSIDE (see photos).   Still a beauty!  I've priced this gown to reflect these issues... Otherwise it would have been $1,895 at least! :)   Measures:  36" bust, up to 30" waist.   $ 985.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5434 - c. 1920's Black Silk Velvet and Brocade Lame Evening Coat with Fur Trim!  First things first.... the coat is in Gorgeous condition...except for the fur which would need to be replaced (as it's totally shedding). What kind of fur it is is a question.... should be replaced with black fox for the right look, but as to what it is now??  Not sure. Sorry.  Anyway, doesn't matter, because it's all about the coat!  Great feeling black silk velvet upper and lower coat and then around the mid section is that awesome gold lame brocade in large floral design.  The coat's collar can be worn open or closed and high to give that very 1920s look.  Coat closes with one large button at the front hipline. Extreme wide batwing sleeves.  Fully lined.  No labels.  48" long from shoulder to hem.  Nearly impossible to measure otherwise, but will fit up to 46" hips! There is ever so slight (hardly seen) darkening of lame at back (tarnishing), but it's hardly even worth a mention.  Replacing fur is easy by a furrier, and you can easily find vintage furs for a song!  Use whatever appeals to you... even faux fur if you prefer.  A lovely gold lame and velvet 1920s coat!    Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Section. $ 895. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 8/10, perhaps 12 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7036 - c. 1926 Ecru Filet Lace Dress with Embroidery!  Here's the last embroidered 20s dress of the lot of three from a museum deaccession.  Comes with the hang tag from the museum.  This one donated by Harold R. Holmyard (not sure it would look really great on someone named Harold, but likely his wife's dress, eh?). This is one of those dresses that usually flies off the "rack" (can a website have a rack?? :)  This dress really blends in too well with the mannequin, so a bit hard to see all the details (best to wear with a colored slip to make it "pop", though if you prefer the "nude" look, it's just as pretty with a nude or white slip!  And ecru filet and embroidered vertical panels with a tailored hipline at front, and straight at the back.  I could call it Excellent condition, but if you look at the close up photos you will see that there is minor darkening and slight puckering (needs a professional pressing) on the netting lace here and there. Measures: up to 37" bust, up to 34" waist, up to 40" hips, 38" long from shoulder to hem.  Even though these are the measurements, 1920s are meant to be worn a bit large.  Actually I'd say a bit small for the size 6 mannequin at 35/25/36.  $ 535.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6568 - c. 1930's "Adrian look" Gown of Gold Sequins on Blue Cotton Netting, Made in France!  When I saw this gown I immediately thought of Joan Crawford's gown in the 1939 movie, The Women, with dramatic costumes by Adrian.  The costumes were SUCH the highlight of the movie that, just like the Wizard of Oz (from the same year), part of the movie is in B&W and the other part in color.  In The Women, the only part in color was an inserted Adrian fashion show. Fabulous!  Anyway, both this gown and her gown had the illusion midriff to show what appears to be skin.  Woo Woo!  Obviously this gown needs a slip under as you currently see a lot more than midriff, and it's all x-rated.  Rare slate blue cotton netting covered all over in swirling patterns in gold sequins.  Notice the surprising peplum at the front of the gown!!   I put this on the smaller mannequin as it's hard to get on (as most 30s gowns are) with just the side snaps, but I wiggled my size 6 body into this and OH MY!  SOOOOO sexy!!  So we know it will fit up to a 34" bust, 27" waist, 37/38" hips (but shown on the mannequin of 30" bust, 24" waist, 34" hips and she looks great as well).  I think this gown will go up to 36" bust, 30" waist and 38" hips.  I'm also 5'2" and it was a bit long (56" from shoulder to hem), but with high heels, pretty good. However, since this is bias, the length will be different with different bodies. Excellent condition.  One of the most exciting 1930's gowns you will see, other than in a museum.  And because it was Made in France (with the label), this cotton netting will hold up for another 80+ years!  $ 2,485.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0-6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6454 - c. 1920's Rare Find Black Sequin Jacket with Huge Deco Sequin Red Roses and Gold Trim!  Most likely French!  Absolutely stunning 1920s sequined evening jacket entirely covered in sequins. The jacket is completely covered in black sequins and decorated with gold and red flowers of sequins. Curved cutaway shape with huge bell sleeves. No closure, just meant to be worn open. All the sequins are sewn onto black cotton ground of excellent condition with no damage or repairs.  The only thing to mention is one vertical line of black sequins missing on the back  which is nearly impossible to see when worn black on black   Easy fix!  I'll try to get to it for you.  Would look incredible over black evening dress or great evening pants.  Measures:  up to 38" bust (shown on a mannequin of 35" bust, and as you see it laps over, so could be worn slightly open at the front with a larger bust,  34" long from shoulder to hem, 23" sleeves.  Looks incredible on!  It will certainly WOW the crowd!  $ 2,485.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-8 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9892 - c. 1929/1930 Sheer Reddish-Brown Cotton Gauze Chiffon Dress with White Iridescent Seed Beads in Bow Decoration with Matching Jacket with Huge Bell Sleeves!  I wish I had the original slip for you for this dress, but it's SO easy to make one... just a tube shape that slips over the head with thin straps will do!  Even I could sew that!!  You can even use ribbons for the straps for ease.  Anyway, obviously it needs a slip... you think??? :)  Look at the photos to see the dress without the jacket.  Great to find these two pieces together, eh?  I love the off center hip detail on the dress and the white iridescent beaded bow (VERY Chanel!!!) on bust and upper elbow on jacket sleeves... with additional beading around the neckline.  Also gotta love that scalloped bottom to the jacket!!  Condition is Excellent, EXCEPT I found 8 tiny pinholes (really, I mean pinholes... not gaping holes!!) in the jacket and 2 tiny pinholes on the dress, and there is a bit of unravelling of the hem stitching (a 20 second fix by a seamstress).  Measures: 32-34" bust, up to 29" waist, up to 33" upper hips (that's 19" long from shoulder to hem to that high hipseam line), and 36" lower hips (that's 21" long from shoulder to lower hipseam line), 52" long from shoulder to hem.  No closures, so you need a friend to get in and out of this dress!!!  Find someone you love, as you will be in a funny position bending over at the waist with your hands over your head letting gravity help remove the dress.  If you have really wide shoulders or back, you might think twice about this dress... to hard to get on! $ 435. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5182 - c. 1926 Black Silk Chiffon with Clear Beaded Bow Dress with Attached Original Black Silk Slip!  Probably copied from a LANVIN 1920s dress.... has that same fabulous look to it!  However, this is not Lanvin, but from the same era.... and it's not in perfect condition.  So, for those of you who want the look without paying top museum prices.... well... voila!   Most of the problems with this dress are in the fact that someone tried to fix the underarm issues with a bit of extra lace (see photos).  There are probably a few other extremely minor "fixes", but none other that are noticeable...other than just a few beads missing and extreme minor seam sewing needed of attached silk slip.  Still very wearable as is, and unless you are hailing a cab, the underarm issues shouldn't be much of a problem for you!  A great dress to wear to a 1920s themed party.   Feels great on, as the slip is a wonderful feeling silk!! Wearable for a sizes 6-10 (shown on a size 6 mannequin, and meant to hang a bit loose). Measures:  up to 40" bust, up to 38" waist, up to 42" hips, 44" long from shoulders to hem.  NO CLOSURES, so again, you have to be smaller than these measurements for it to fit well.  A great dress for this price!!  $ 485. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6 - 10ish (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#7037 - c. 1926 Fine Cotton Batiste and Lace Dress with Crochet Balls!  So sweet!  This is one of those dresses that usually flies off the "rack" (can a website have a rack?? :)  I don't have to tell you how pretty... the photos prove that.  And ecru voile dress with floral embroidered vertical panels, filet lace and crochet balls. But what is hard to see is the hint of blush pink in the laces!!  You almost think your eyes are playing tricks on you, but it's just this great little touch!  I'd love to see is this dress worn with a blush pink slip under (probably that's what it had originally).  Excellent condition.   Measures:  up to 40" bust, up to 40" waist, up to 40" hips, 48" long from shoulder to hem.  Meant to be worn a bit large.  Actually perfect for the mannequin at 35/25/36, size 6.  This material feels great!  Also Listed in the Wedding Category.  $ 785.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#7176 - c. 1926 Gold Beaded Flapper Dress with Incredible Sequined "Bubbles" on Cotton Netting! Likely French Couture!  This is one of those incredible flapper beaded and sequin dresses that you can't believe doesn't have a label.  Jean Patou?  Lanvin?  Someone who was totally confident in their design abilities as this is "wild" both in design and in the types of beads and sequins used... various colored spotted sequins, and the finest glass beads. I don't even know what else to say.  It's all about the photos.  Weighs a ton, but because it's on the European cotton netting, it survived the weight of the beads (and will survive another 80+ years)!  The skirt continues the awesome circle (or bubble if you want to be as cute as I try to be) motif all in the gold beading, and flairs at each side.  The front is exactly the same as the back of this dress.   In the second to last photo, you will see that one green bead.  I was told this confirms that this was totally hand beaded (as one rogue bead was inserted to show the human touch).  In the last photo you will see the only minor issue (otherwise near mint!!) there is one small area of tarnish in the gold just above the multi-colored sequin waist. It's mid center, but since the dress is exactly the same front and back, it can be worn with that in the back.  As it is, it's almost as though she might have been carrying a bouquet!   Why not get married in your finest, likely couture dress!  $ 3,750.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0-6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9966 - c. 1910 Ecru Cotton Batiste Embroidered Lawn Dress with Half Slip! LARGER SIZE! This dress is made of a lovely embroidered extremely fine cotton batiste. Has a nice feel to it. As pretty as this dress is, it's not in perfect condition as it really needs to go home with someone who is great at soaking 100 years of dust from an Edwardian white.  The dirt is very light, and in some lighting situations you might think I'm crazy for even mentioning anything, but it's there.  A long soak in the bathtub might do wonders (as it would me!).  You gotta love the embroidery and scalloped edged hem. 3/4 length sleeves. Tiny crochet buttons up the back. This dress comes with an embroidered cotton half slip which seems a bit short for this dress (as you can see in the last photo), but this dress needs a full slip anyway (as you can see it's a bit sheer).  The slip was some tears at the bottom, but again it's a slip you are basically getting for free... so no complaining. Measures: up to 44" bust, up to 34" waist, 16" upper arm, 54" long from shoulder to hem.  The slip measures:  34" waist, 32" long. Great hard to find larger size.  Wear with a nude slip under and it's a nice look, or snazz this up with pink or light blue under... or hey... black for REAL drama!  $ 545. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 12/14  (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5415- c. 1883/1884 Olive Colored Silk Taffeta Bustle Wedding Gown!  Attention, attention... calling all dressmakers!!  I never like to sell items that aren't in wearable condition or in really good condition, so this is an exception for me.  Selling this 2-piece silk taffeta bustle gown for study or flat display or for pattern.  Especially good for pattern as it's a wearable size (hard to find for all Victorian gowns).  Given to me from the Great-Granddaughter of the woman who actually wore this as a wedding gown.  Let's start with the measurements:  34" bust, 28" waist for bodice and 29" waist for skirt, 57" long from shoulder to hem.  See? Wearable size! And the upper back is wide enough for today's normal (though not wide shouldered) gals.  As you can see, it's pretty, especially the skirt with the "apron" front and nice chenille dripping from the swags.  Nice ruffled hemline.  The back of the bodice and skirt is just as beautiful a design.  The color is a difficult to photograph olive (probably different from what you see on your monitor, but that was the closest I could get).  Just think a green olive.  The trim is a light rose/brown changeable taffeta.  The buttons are marcasite (10 buttons, 2 are missing).   OK... now here's the big problem... the taffeta is starting to split, especially at the upper back of the bodice, the sleeves, and then the cotton lining of the skirt is totally ripped so the skirt is soft of hanging at the back without support.  There is a bodice spot on one breast, but surprisingly the underarms aren't bad!  The chenille trim is usable on a new gown.  This is NOT a total rag, but for me, this is not the normal condition I sell.  Price reflects the condition.  The skirt with a new lining, isn't bad.  FINAL SALE ITEM. $ 265. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6861 - c. 1908/1909 Gorgeous Pink Silk Embroidered Coat with Lace Trim!  I don't have to say anything, do I? I will just let you look at the photos.  If you are one of the smart ones... you will jump on this!  How many times do you see a pink silk  embroidered "Edwardian" coat in near mint condition????  This is short, but would have been worn over a long dress, giving a great look (I probably should have photographed it over a longer dress, but hey.... I figure you know just as much as I!).  The embroidery is quite 3-dimensional of lovely flowers, I believe they are lilies.  Love the original embroidered decorative buttons! Even the interior is lovely with the large embroidered pocket!! Excellent condition all around. Even the white lace at cuffs and neck. Measures:  34/35" bust, 42" long from shoulder to hem. You will LOVE this in person!  Also Listed in the Furs, etc. Category. $ 1,465.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-6, perhaps 8 if you fit the bust (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6163 - c. 1905 Irish Crochet "Crown" White Blouse! Great blouse... better than most!  Irish crochet is really "hot" these days... prices are going crazy!   And this is one of the prettiest with the very collectable extreme high neck.  Oh, and look at the lace trim on that neck!   It looks like a royal crown!!  This blouse has a bit of a pigeon front (dating it to circa 1905) and 1/2 length sleeves. Lined in a sheer white netting. Very white, and ready to wear if you wish.  Excellent condition. Has new hooks and eyes at back.  Measures:  30/31" bust, 23" waist.  $ 785.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0/2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9940 - c. 1820's /1890's Ivory Satin Wedding Gown! I hate to be stupid, but I guess I can't know everything (though I DO try!).  This gown is really confusing me.  It has an 1820's hemline (with the lovely bow / ribbon detailing) and early 1820's closures at front, and brown cotton lining... all correct to about 1822-1826... but the stitching is by machine... so I wonder if perhaps it was reworked a bit... perhaps back in style during the aesthetic period around 1892-1894 - because... the person who owned this gown has a note that reads "Mary Jane Crusau's satin wedding dress, June 1894".   I really can't tell you one way or another.  I need to go to fashion school (never did you know!), so perhaps one of you educated types can help me out here!!  FYI, I added a dash of wax flower at one sleeve (doesn't come with it, but would likely have had some decoration similar) and show it with a wax headpiece - available separately on this website.   There is an underlayer sweeper at the hemline with narrow band of matching velvet.  The gown is lovely and looks to be in great condition (with the exception of a few age marks here and there), but then, unfortunately, the underarms are torn up (see photos).  It's great for display, but not to wear... as is.  Tiny anyway!    Measures: 30" bust, 11" across back between armseams (tiny!), 54" long from shoulder to hem in front, 65" long in back.  The gown has its faults, but damn pretty for display when the underarms won't be an issue.  Also Listed in the Wedding Section. $ 685.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00 (check measurements above)
From FINEST EUROPEAN COLLECTION SOLD		#4473 - c. 1927 Black Beaded Cotton Net Flapper Dress in Deco Chevron Pattern! LARGER SIZE! Here's yet another Near Mint condition beaded flapper dress from the Museum Quality collection I was lucky to get. This dress was designed to party the night away... evidenced by the open slits at the skirt sides 20" to hip!  Wonderful scalloped and slight handkerchief hemline.  The dress is fully beaded of silver beads in two patterns for a modified chevron design. All on cotton net.  Note:  Beaded flapper dresses on cotton netting are the ones originally made in France or Belgium and have withstood the test of time thanks to the cotton base, as opposed to other 1920s dresses beaded on chiffon which have, or are in the process of disintegrating over time due to the weight of the beading on fragile fabric. So always best to buy the cotton net flapper dresses if you want to wear them! Measures: up to 42" bust, up to 37" waist, up to 44" hips, 39-46" long from shoulder to hem.  Shown on a size 6 mannequin and since flapper dresses can be worn large, it will fit a smaller size as well. $ 2,285.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 10/12 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6990 - c. 1920's Brasstone Metal Flapper Deco Headpiece with Enamel Drops and Faux Pearls!  In my years of collecting, I've actually sold six, oops now 7 of these, so I'm assuming they they were quite popular in the 20's.  Probably was the "must have" of the era... kind of like the Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress of the 1970s.  Either that, or I keep buying back the same one piece over and over again!  Gosh, I hope not! Too embarrassing!! No, I think my first assessment is accurate (so I'm stickin' to it!)... please know I'm just kidding... I know they are all different!  Even though I've had a few, I seek them out and I have to tell you, they are getting MUCH harder to find!!  So if you want one... don't hesitate.  I might be running out of "flapper headpiece luck".  Adjustable slightly hammered gold or brass tone metal bands at the top to fit anyone.  Green enamel drops at the bottom of the deco design earpieces and faux peals draped from the movable bar. ... so they shimmy when you Charleston.  The perfect accessory for your next 1920's dressup. The three brassy headpieces fold into each other for easy packing.  The overall patina is slightly darker and less shiny than it looks in the photos (under bright lights).  Excellent condition. Can be slightly bent by hand to match your headshape and size (I know because I tried it! :) and then hammered down to keep that shape. Will even fit an extra large head! $ 995. SOLD
SOLD		#6767 - c. 1898 E. CONWAY Robes, 14 E. 45th Street, New York Trained Late Victorian Gown of Black Chantilly Lace Over White Silk!  Nearly as MINT condition as you can find!  Looks like it was made yesterday (though I assure you it's over 100 years old!!).  Magnificent black silk Chantilly lace covering the entire 2-piece gown over a white silk lining.  Trimmed in a beautiful soft aqua velvet on high collar, and around bodice yoke to a great velvet bow!  Black sequins cover the net yoke and waistband.  Lovely flounced lace hemline on trained skirt.  Even the fine pleated china silk trim is in perfect condition!!!  So rare!  It's very small.... which is good, because this 2-piece gown deserves to be preserved in this condition for another 100 years, so it's unlikely someone will be able to wear it.  But a gorgeous display piece for museum quality collection!!   Measures:  32" bust, 11.5" across shoulders (tiny!), 22" waist, 42" long from waist to hem, 52" long in back.  This gown is even prettier in person... I should have photographed on a different color background so the aqua blue velvet stands out as it will in person.  But I'm assuming you can figure that out!  I very much doubt this gown was EVER worn!!   As any vintage clothing collector will tell you... buy the best pieces you can find in the best condition you can find. This is IT!  $ 1,745.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 000 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#7035 - c. early 1920's Heavily Embroidered Cotton Net Dress!  I was holding this dress up prior to putting it on the mannequin and shrugging my shoulders.  Sure, it was pretty, but it wasn't until I photographed it that I fell in love.  It just evoked the Regency era!  It looked like it should have been worn by Gwyneth Paltrow in the movie "Emma". So then, I wanted to see what this dress would look like with an empire waist, and then a natural waist, a low waist, and hip band, so you will see a ribbon I used to show all the different looks.  Then you can wear with a nude slip under (to look like you see), or wear with a colored slip under for totally different looks.... and/or wear with a longer slip under for this to be a tunic!!  SOOOOO much you can do with this dress!!!  All gorgeous. The dress has a front panel of cut voile floral lace with hundreds (I might exaggerate) of tiny crochet buttons down the front!  There are drapy side panels and flouncy short sleeves. Condition is great with the exception of extreme minor age spots here and there, but the only real issue is a small hole area on one of the side drapy panels - lost in the folds, but there (see photo).  Measures: up to 42" bust, up to 42" waist, up to 49" hips, 49-51" long from shoulder to hem. Meant to be worn large... the mannequin is size 6 (35/25/36) so you can see how it looks on her. Great for a wedding or anything! Also Listed in the Wedding Category.  $ 845.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#5690 - c. 1920's Flapper Beaded Overdress!  LARGER SIZE! This is one of those dresses you have to hope was worn with a slip! :)  Or... not... your choice! :)  As you can easily see, it is a beaded flapper "overdress".  It's open 3/4 of the way down the front, and with large open cutouts at the lower sides.  The armholes are also quite open, yet the back is fully covered.  Wild, huh?  The slip would have just been the classic 20s silk slip - basically a simple tube with ribbon straps - easy as pie to make (even for me who can't sew on a button!). You could choose black or a matching blue (looks like it was originally a lacy blue from a tiny bit inside the shoulder)! Now look at the photos of the dress closeup.  A very different fabric of thin gold metallic threads running through a black woven silk  - which gives the look of a light golden copper from afar - covered in a deco placement of glass light blue beads in a swirling pattern. Very different from the usual.  The very wide hipsash belt is the same lame material... which covers the seaming at the lower waist of the overdress.  I don't know if I'm confusing you, but the photos show all.  The condition isn't perfect as there are some small holes at the upper back (probably someone had pinned on some decorative flowers on the shoulder, and the pinholes have gotten a bit larger over the years. There are only a few missing beads, it's 99.9% fine!  50" long from shoulder to hem.  Will pretty much fit any size.  The only measurement that is absolute is the 39" hips sash.  However, you can increase that with a bit of creativity of a buckle or ornament.    $ 635. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 4-14 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6704 - c. 1920's RARE French Silver Bullion "Hair" Cloche Labeled "Ideal, PARIS"! The ULTIMATE Flapper Cloche or Flapper Headpiece!  If you have been one of my website groupies for awhile, you might have seen the gold bullion "hair" cloche I sold some years back (still in my sold museum section). I bought that last one in London and hated to sell it as I had never seen another in my 35+ years of collecting.  So, since then I've been searching everywhere for others!  AMAZINGLY, I found two of these recently and again, it kills me to put these up on the website as I just LOVE LOVE LOVE them!!!!   And since, if asked what I would most like to collect, it would be flapper headpieces.  But I know there are others of "me" out there also with flapper collections, so... WAAAHHH.... you get the opportunity to own these forever!  Absolutely amazing!! It's a cloche woven with silver bullion threads in the shape of a classic 1920's hairdo... complete with the finger wavy hairs all over, and the pinned up "longer" hair at the back and coiled at the sides in braids (Princess Leahish!). I suppose this is the ultimate hat for a "bad hair day"!!! Excellent condition with the only thing to mention is slight tarnishing... it might have been brighter silver when new, but frankly I like it "as is" with this patina and just a bit of "hair" out of place.  Net lining. This will easily fit a 22" head, and even a 23" head! Nearly impossible to measure, but it's large on my normal 22" head (as you can see in the photos) and will fit, but higher on the 23" head - see other photos).  I assume originally this was worn by a women who didn't yet want to cut her long hair into the fashionable "bob", so wore this over that full hair (which is why it's larger).  Absolutely a Museum quality piece! Also listed in the Museum and Hats, etc. Category. $ 3,450.  SOLD on LAYAWAY
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6821 - c. 1910 White Edwardian Irish Crochet Jacket Lined in Light Blue Cotton!  Near perfection in a summer Edwardian jacket!  So pretty!  If you've checked out prices of Irish Crochet items lately, you will see that they are commanding quite high prices.  No surprise... I don't have to tell you it's gorgeous.  This jacket can be worn as you see as a wrap style, or if you need it larger, you can wear more open (see photos) at front.  1/2 length sleeves. Great double-vented back.  And probably the best part... it's fully lined in a light blue cotton fabric...even weighted at the bottom corners to keep it's shape!  If the lining isn't original, it's perfect anyway (I really don't know... as it's so rare to find any of these jackets lined at all, that I have nothing to compare it to!  I've certainly seen irish crochet lined in china silk, but never in cotton.  This is so perfect, it can easily be worn as a modern jacket with a pair of jeans, or go Edwardian and wear with a white or light blue skirt. Hard to measure as it changes when you move that one snap, but basically up to 36" bust, up to a large 37" waist (but as you can see it on the 25" waist, looks great), up to 47" hips (again, looks great on 36" hips),  31" long from shoulder to hem, and probably most importantly, a smallish back at about 15" across, so probably still best for a size 2-8. Excellent condition - almost like new with just the most minor dirt on close inspection (see photo).  $ 785.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 2 - 8 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6765 - c. 1903/1904 MRS. BAKER, COURT DRESSMAKER, 15 New Burlington Street, W, London Elaborate and Opulent Trained Black Chantilly Lace Evening Gown and Matching Coat Ensemble!  Previously Owned by the Eminent Collector DORIS LANGLEY MOORE, the Founder of the Fashion Museum at Bath, England (Previously the Museum of Costume at Bath) and Prominently Featured in Ms. Moore's 1947 book "The Woman in Fashion"!  Comes with the 2 Original 1947 photos of Ms. Moore Wearing the Ensemble! QUICK NOTE FOR COLLECTORS:  Both Pieces were Expertly Relined!  From I have been collecting, buying and selling Antique and Vintage clothing for 45 years now (yes, I bought my first Edwardian white dress at age 10 at a flea market!!).  So, as you can imagine, it takes an extraordinary piece to take my breath away... I believe I gasped out-loud with a "Oh God"! And when it happens, I remember all over again that I LIVE for antique and vintage clothing!!!! If you are reading this, you probably feel the same way.  This outfit was previously owned by Doris Langley Moore, who loved it so much she had herself photographed wearing this outfit!  As I mention upfront, for those collectors who want items fully original, these pieces have been fully and expertly relined (most likely by a museum)... but the exterior I believe to be fully original on both pieces!!  And certainly the relining has allowed this pieces to remain in NEAR MINT condition! YEAH!  Trained Black Chantilly net lace gown with embroidered green silk floss leaves and pink silk roses with embroidered bows and trellis designs and tiny silver sequins.  One of the most elaborate gowns and coats ever seen! Labeled "Mrs. Baker, Court Dressmaker" from London.  I spent some time researching what this might have cost new (with inflation and exchange rate) and the gown alone would be close to $20,000... with the coat, likely $40,000! The matching coat has pagoda sleeves, deep collar, pastel colored chiffon roses and black velvet ribbon trims with silver sequins.  Measures:  34/35" bust, 23/24" waist, Skirt is: 42" long from waist to hem, 54" long in back. Coat is: 56" long from shoulder to hem. Condition is amazing with only tiny a few leg breaks in the Chantilly lace.   Also Listed in the Museum Category. $ 9,500. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0/2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6770 - c. 1912 "Titanic" Edwardian Cinnamon Colored Silk Trained Gown!  Hey all you Titanic lovers...have I got a gown for you! Rare cinnamon color silk with ecru lace trim.  The gown has loads of the details you love of the era.  Soutache trim, rosette, train, embroidery, etc. The color might look slightly pink online, but the closest name for this color is cinnamon, so open your spice cabinet and sprinkle out some cinnamon to get it right. Now do you want the good news or the bad news first?  Good news:  The exterior silk is in terrific condition. You can see that the dye has given it a bit of a horizontal cast.  The ecru sheer overlay at the bodice is a bit frail.  But the interior bodice is also terrific!!  Rare for gowns of this era!! Even has lovely French seams!  The bad news:  Yup, the skirt lining and lining ruffle is toast.  No, not the color of toast, but torn as so many of these Edwardian gowns are.  So, you can replace or whatever suits you best. Since it's a wearable size, you might want to deal with the renovations.  Measures: 36-37" bust, up to 30" waist (slightly high), up to 40" hips, 54" long from shoulder to hem in front, 67" long in back. $ 645. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6/8 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#4576 - c. 1931/1932 MAISON DOUCET, 57, Knightsbridge, SWI  Beige Lace Gown with Matching Jacket! OK... This could be listed in either the pre-1930 or post-1930 categories, so I will list it in both... as well as wedding, since it would work beautifully for just about anyone!  I wish I could give you history on the London Doucet label, but I find nothing in my research... so I will have to assume it was an authorized London outpost of the most prestigious Parisian Maison Doucet of Jacques Doucet, one of the greatest designers of the late 19th, early 20th centuries. However, Jacques Doucet died in 1929, and his Parisian house was merged with Doeuillet soon after. So.... it's very possible this was a VERY short-lived, Rare London label!!!  Beige lace slender, bias ruffled skirted, sleeveless. 'U' neck gown with high draped bateau back neckline with china silk underlay.  The matching short lace jacket has lovely tiered bell sleeves and no closures.  I added the ribbon and flowers at waist for show... doesn't come with any. Measures: 34-36" bust, up to 31" waist, up to 40" hips, 56" long from shoulder to hem. Side snaps. NOTE:  The nude china silk lining is still attached but is quite fragile (torn at seams, and large stain at hemline), so you will want to remove and wear your own slip under. No big deal.  Many of these antique lace gowns have lost there linings long ago!  At least you have an excellent pattern if you want to remake a new one.  OR.... go naked under!  Woo-woo! Now THAT will make an interesting entrance! :)  Other than lining, Excellent condition with just one small light spot found in skirt.  This is ONE gorgeous piece on!!!  And as you know... ANY couture labeled gowns from the 1930s (the depression era) are VERY rare!!! Also listed in Wedding section. $ 1,885. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 6, perhaps 8 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5169 - c. early 1900's Ottoman Turkish Embroidered Cape! Ecru Woolen (Woollen) Long Cape of Turkish "Dival" Embroidery in Fine Gold Bullion Thread with Turquoise Beading! With Provenance!  Popular from about 1850-1920, the embroidery of this cape is typical of Turkish work, the technique known as 'dival', found on jackets, coats and waistcoats.  A similarly decorated waistcoat is in the Embroiderer's Guild Collection at Hampton Court, England.  It is described as having been made in a workshop for export to France.  Dival embroideries worked with coral and pearls were particularly prized in palaces. This extravagant work found throughout the Ottoman court, from clothing to furnishings of the palace rooms.  Also, it was fashionable among wealthy European families to include bedspreads and bohças made with the dival technique for their daughter's trousseaus.  During the late 19th Century, many travelers to Istanbul described items of dival embroidery specifically made for commercial, export purposes. So... these is a great history here! The unique history of this particular cape is even more fascinating. The owners' father was a DJ with the Armed Forces Radio during WWII.  In the closing months of the war, his unit took over a castle outside of Frankfurt called "The Von Bruning Castle".  The castle was abandoned "in a hurry" and he and the other troops went hunting for "spoils of war" (an acceptable practice then I'm told).  This was one of the items he collected and shipped back home to New Mexico where it's been ever since.  So if you think of yourself (as I do) as a Princess, you'll love the fact that this is from an actual European castle! :)  Brushed ecru woolen fabric, open at the front, with a high collar, fastened beneath the collar with a rolled thread button and loop. Various designs motifs have been embroidered in gold bullion thread, on the front and back of the cape symmetrically arranged around the opening. A few turquoise beads embellish along with a few delicate drops!  Some of the embroidery is even 3-D.  I've found it's easier to find these capes in the shorter circular "shoulder" length, but rarer to find one this long!  Excellent condition (nearly mint) with just a few extreme minor issues.. tiny moth nips of just the fluff of the wool (these are not holes!), two light tiny spots I practically dare you to find, and one rolled thread "button" missing!  Even the original ivory silk lining is near mint.  Consider making a grand entrance in this!  $ 1,185. SOLD
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6885 - c. 1920's Fully Beaded on Net Deco Design Overdress! Will be Sold with Black Silk 1920's PAULETTE, Oklahoma Slip! As I always say, the best 1920's beaded dresses are on cotton netting.  Those usually came from Paris, France or Belgium. This is likely a Parisian piece.  Terrific Art Deco design with white beads on black and ecru cotton netting.  This is an "overdress", meant to be worn as you see over a simple colored or nude slip.  I'm selling this with this black silk Paulette, Oklahoma label slip as it works very well with the dress. Slightly shorter than the dress, but that gives the hemline a great airy look. Excellent condition and quite strong.... certainly wearable!  There are just a couple extremely minor issues... you can barely see a spot on the upper bust (see 3rd to last photo), and there are two larger than pinhead holes in the lower waistband area (see last photo) where someone might have worn a heavy pin.  As you can see, if you wear a nude slip, the dress will have a much more subtle design - so you get two looks in one dress.  The upper sides are open (as most overdresses are) to show some of the slip under the arms. Someone had sewn this shut, and so can you if you want, but this is the correct look for the era. Great piece!!!  Buy it now.. you know you'll be invited to a 20s party in the future, and you'll be so happy you'll have this in your closet! :) This one is fairly small at 33" bust, up to 32" waist, up to 38" hips, 46" long from shoulder to hem.  $ 865. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0/2 - 4
SOLD		#6766 - c. 1903 Trained Taupe Wool Flannel Cutwork 2-piece Tea Gown!  I work very hard to try to find the most beautiful items for this website.  I've seen sooo many antique/vintage pieces in my life, it takes more and more to excite me.  So I was happy to find a few really special pieces lately!  How do ya like this one??  For those of you who are purists, I have to say upfront that the gorgeous and vibrant turquoise silk lining has been replaced by an expert (certainly not by me!).  This turquoise peeks through all the small cutwork dots and soutache ornaments!!  Fantastic!!  The exterior taupe wool gown (and now the turquoise lining as well) is in excellent condition with only the most tiny and minor moth holes!  Look at the close-up photos to see all the detail of chenille soutache embroidery and needle lace high collar and cuffs, gold enamel buttons, scalloped cuffs, etc. Measures: 35/36" bust, 26/27" waist, 40" long from waist to hem in front, 57" long in back. A Very wearable gown!!!  I would probably wear a cameo pin at the front neck... it would be the perfect complement.  $ 1,845.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6771 - c. 1908 Ivory Silk Brocade Gown with Chiffon Sleeves and Jeweled Trim!  I thought this gown was in near perfect condition when I first got it other than the one "cigarette hole" in the skirt (see photos) ... even the interior is in great condition (see the photos),  but it took my photographing to realize that there was some short splits in the skirt silk brocade, and the second layer of chiffon on the sleeves was more fragile than I had hoped.   So... what this all means is a great price for you for a gorgeous gown!  Really... take a look at those fabulous green jeweled and white beaded decorations at the front and back bodice... and the pretty bows on the lower skirt and cuffs, the nice self-covered oval buckle" at back, and the lovely swirled brocade silk material. A great display gown, and gently wearable for a short time - for photograph.  A great project for you fashion students to learn how to stabilize antique fabric that is just starting to deteriorate. Measures:  36" bust, up to 28" slightly empire waistline, 57" long from shoulder to hem in front, 60" long in back.  NOTE:  Final Sale Item to protect condition.   $ 265. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4493 - c. 1927 Made in France Aqua Sequin Deco Design Mini Flapper Dress on Nude Cotton Netting!  Oh my god - this dress is incredible on!!!! SO sparkly!!! Absolute showstopper. This dress is like none I've seen before.  It's original to the 1920s - no question - but it's too short as is to have been the entire dress.  I'm sure this dress was worn as a tunic over a silk underslip (most all flapper beaded/sequin dresses were sheer and therefore worn with silk slips).  And since the shape of the dress is quite full at the hemline, I'm thinking that perhaps the lower portion of the underslip was covered in matching aqua dyed ostrich or marabou feathers!  Similar to the Parisian Dec. 1925 etching dress (see photos).  It's something you might consider making... unless you prefer to just wear the dress as is and show off those great legs of yours! :)  The dress is in Excellent condition with just a few sequins missing showing through to the light ecru net base (see close-ups).  There are sequins which are bunched up that might just need repositioning.  Overall, unless you are inspecting the dress, it's Excellent.  The design is terrific... slight color hue differences in the aqua create a Deco design with tiny rhinestones at low "v" neckline. Measures: up to 36/37" chest, up to 34" waist, up to 43" hips, 34" long (that's short!) from shoulder to hem.   $ 1,745. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6/8, perhaps 10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4490 - c. 1925 Black Silk and Crepe Flapper Dress with Slit Skirt Front!  One of the few dresses from this fabulously rare collection of 1920s flapper dresses that is not beaded on cotton netting.  Instead this dress is a fine black silk - fully lined at top, and then the dress is unlined, sheer and open from hip to hem in front! So it needs to be worn with a half slip... unless you are Paris Hilton! Wear a black slip, or go wild with silver lame or nude or whatever else floats your boat! :) But PLEASE wear a slip! The beading is black jet which sparkles in the light, and then the "firework" flowers are created from pronged brilliant rhinestones!!  Awesome.  Excellent condition. Gorgeous on!!!  Elegant! Measures:  up to 34" bust, up to 35/36" hips (will go on 37" hips, but better smaller), 43" long from shoulder to hem. $ 1,395. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5620 - c. 1911/1912 Edwardian Dress of Ecru Silk/Linen with Silk Fringe! For those of you who want the "Somewhere in Time" or "Titanic" look without paying a fortune... I have a gorgeous Edwardian gown for you!!  This seems to be a silk/linen blend in the classic linen color trimmed in matching Irish crochet lace at yoke and neck, and matching wide lace at bodice and diagonally across skirt.... oh, and then there is that FABULOUS silk fringe!!!!  Seems to be everywhere!   And then as if that is not enough... two beautiful mother-of-pearl (MOP) ornaments with blush light blue satin, 3 MOP ornamental buttons, thin trim of that same blush blue satin and knife pleated hemline!  If this dress had no issues, it would be over $1000, but it has light stains here and there and under the arms, and the lace at the cuffs is tearing, with one small lace hole at neck.  These are really quite minor issues for such a fabulous dress... even the interior is great....  AND it's a wearable size measuring 34" bust, 28" underbust, 27" waist, up to 40" hips, 13.5" neck, 53" long from shoulder to hem (so it's only for short gals!).   Take a look at all the photos and then get out your credit card.   $ 685. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4/6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6745 - c. late 1870's/early 1880's Fan Trained Wedding Gown of Cream Silk Satin with Crystal Beading! First thing you have to do is click on the photo at the left to see the extensive white crystal beading down the front of the skirt, around the neckline and on the sleeves. Only the wealthiest of brides would have such an elaborate wedding gown!  Likely too small to be worn today (unless you are a Calista Flockhart or Audrey Hepburn build). Awesome details including self-fabric pleated fans on the skirt sides.  I've added a sprig of wax flowers at the bust (doesn't come with it), but I would decorate this gown with additional similar wax or silk blossoms.  The condition is excellent, with a few issues to explain.  First off the dress itself is excellent with no underarm staining or anything... strong material... clean interior.  However, there is one spot on front side skirt (see photos) and then the fact that the netting behind the beading is torn away, yet the beading is strong everywhere but on one shoulder where the beading needs to be retacked.  Still, it is mostly all there! Just needs a little TLC to be nearly mint.   Measures:  30" bust, 23"/24" waist, 38" long skirt from waist to hem in front, and 66" long in back.  $ 1,785. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#2020 - c. 1929 CAROLYN, Paris / New York Coral Silk Dress! Created for Schuette Bros, Co, Manitowoc, Wisconsin! Yeah, I know... it's damn pretty.  Damn.  Because it's not perfect... but YEAH, for those of you who want the look without spending too much. Gorgeous color of a pinky coral... like a Bermuda beach!  And ooh... that asymmetrical hemline and extra flounce at one side along with exciting tailoring details at the waist at front and sides (see photo for close-ups if you can't see the inverted "v" at front and the ruched, gathered sides. Sexy but simple "v" neck.  Just the perfect shape and color!  Now for the issues... the material has slight variations of color throughout which just give it a "sueded" look.... nothing bad, actually pretty, but just not what it was originally. And there are underarm discolorations which are seen, but do blend in. The hemline is slightly dirty and two pinholes found (you won't find them without searching.  There are a few areas that could use a bit of stitching.  So.. you can pay twice this price if perfect, or enjoy it as is! :) Measures:  up to 37" bust, up to 31" waist, up to 36" hips, 43" long from shoulder to hem at shortest, and 52" long at longest. It's shown on a mannequin of 35" bust, 25" waist, 36" hips and she looks great in it!  I love the history of Schuette Bros. Department Store.... founded in 1848 (!) it was one of the oldest retail establishments in Wisconsin (closed in 1994), and my favorite part... one of its greatest charms was its pneumatic tube system for handling money!  Damn I miss things like that... and automats... and old cash registers.... and salespeople who actually SMILE and GREET you!! What this world is coming to...   $ 365.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6/8 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5693 - c. 1889-1892 Mme. Lambert de St-Omer Black Lace Cape with Black Bead and Chenille Yoke!  Thanks to Mark who deciphered the name on this label... but it seem no one can read second line (address?) on this cape! Possibly a N-V, though I don't know what that would mean? I will let you figure out what you think it is. This black lace cape is fairly easy to date as it has tiny shoulderpads!  So if you look through the fashion magazines of the time, you will see that the shoulders popped up from about 1889-1892 and the expanded into the extremely huge "mutton" and "balloon" sleeves of the mid 1890's... at which point the capes got shorter to look better with the voluminous sleeves.  This cape is still in Excellent condition (except for one area at midback where the lace has some small breaks (see photos - easily disguised in all this lace!) and the fact that the beading threads are brown (yet amazingly still strong, and beads are staying on!).  Nothing else wrong to report to you.  Fresh from a Southern estate where you'd expect them to want a nice "airy" lace cape! :)  I still don't know how they survived in their corsets and head-to-toe dresses without air conditioning!!!   We are SUCH wimps today, eh? :)  Measures:  38" long from shoulder to hem and will fit most anyone.   $ 385.  SOLD
SOLD		#5605 - c. 1870's Gray-Green 3-piece Bustle Gown! Near Mint condition 3-piece gown! One of those pieces that makes you think you went back in time because the condition is so terrific!  The three pieces are the bodice, the skirt and then the long overskirt.  Bodice is trimmed in thin matching satin.  Crochet buttons in same color as well. Lace at cuffs. The material seems to be a strong silk/linen blend.   OK, now I have to say, I'm not absolutely sure I have the overskirt facing the right way.  Sorry... I think it's right, but I won't swear to it.  I'll let you figure it out! :) Measures:  up to 29" bust, up to 24" waist, 50" long from shoulder to hem. $ 685.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#5610 - c. 1867 Purple Taffeta Trained 2-piece Gown with Separate Belt!  I am telling you right now, you can't fit into this.  Great for display or for a large doll!  I have a "thing" for purple... I think I must have some regal blood as I always gravitate toward this color.  I've had to lighten the color a bit in the photos otherwise you would see no details... so it's a deep, but not overly dark purple. This gown was purchased in 1973 by the previous owner  who put it into storage and just decided it was time to let it go.  It's pretty, but not perfect.  There are underarm stains and there are light patches of slight loss of color here and there on the skirt and one upper sleeve  (see photos).  Other than that, the skirt was likely resewn, or repaired as the the sewing just under the waistband is messy in front placket and back (see photos). And there are only a very few teeny pinholes in skirt when you hold up to the light.  The belt bow at back seems to need a bit of work - just held together with a pin.  Measures: 32" bust, 21" waist, 10" across back (!), 41" long skirt in front, 55" long in back. Shown with hoop under that doesn't come with it. Much handstitching along with machine stitching. Priced to sell for those of you who are young collectors for study! SOLD Approx. - SIZE 000 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#3640 - c. 1880 Ecru Satin and Tan Lace Bustle Skirt!  As you know, I don't often just sell separates, but it's a recession so I know I have many customers who can't live without feeding their vintage habit (yes, it's just like a drug addict!  I know as I am one of you!!)... so as I can, I'm trying to photograph some of the more affordable, yet still fabulous pieces in my collection.  Who knows?  You might have the perfect bodice to match this skirt! It's still a lovely piece... just needs a bodice (as I don't think you want to wear it topless).   This bustle skirt is an ecru satin with an especially beautiful hemline with the gathering and knife pleating!  And the interest of the tan lace cascading diagonally across the front. Excellent condition with a couple brown spots at front.  BUT, take a look at the photos... you can see I turned the satin under at front in one of the photos and the spots disappear!  So with a bit of tacking, it would look great.  Measures:  25" waist, 42" long from waist to hem.  You can probably get a bit creative in the waist at back and re-arrange bustle to hide another couple added inches in the waistline (as it is, the waistband itself is only 25" long, so you will have to add material or ribbon or whatever to increase size). $ 485.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4511 - c. 1892 Reception Gown of Golden Ecru Brocade with Rare Watteau Train!  These photos may not give you the full effect of the beauty of the color of this brocade.. it's a gorgeous golden ecru... very rich looking! Hard to believe there is no designer name on the petersham!! This is one of the best reception gowns I've had due to the unique and fairly rare watteau bow back!  That piece of the train is actually part of the skirt that hooks high onto the bodice with hooks.  The gown is edged with a pretty silk ribbon, gathered and purposely "distressed" to create the design. The interior bodice is cotton so it's in near mint condition - with the original bust pads still soft and in place (!).  The hemline of the underskirt has a still triple ruffle.   Measures:  30" bust, 21" waist, 41" long from waist to hem, 72" long in back. Near Mint condition with just a couple hooks/eyes missing, and some rust spotting ONLY on lining.  The exterior is like  Crazy good.... you'd almost think you've gone back in time!  And perhaps with this gown, you could.  Tiny size, so really only for display or your young daughter.  $ 1,895.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6750 - c. 1890's Black Silk Velvet Jet Beaded Cape!  There are times when I just run out of things to say.  Perhaps it's because I'm updating this website while watching television (I like to muli-task!).  So I'm just gonna let you look at ths photos of this beaded velvet cape and make up your own description.  Certainly looks special enough to have been a Parisian cape!! Exquisite black jet beaded in a floral trellis design and a modified Crimped silk gauze trim around the bottom and neckline.  Black satin "leaves" all around the shoulders and back edged in beading.  Awesome look!  Small satin bow at neck back.  Fully lined in black silk.  Please forgive the photo of the cape laying down.  It must have been moving (it certainly couldn't have been MY fault!!).   I'll re-photograph at some point.  The cape is in  Excellent condition - which is what you really need to know!  The close-up photos will tell you everything else.  $ 865.   SOLD
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6747 - c. 1860's Trained White Fine Linen 2-piece Gown Trimmed in Purple Ribbon! Civil War Era! Wearable Size!  OK...  This gown leaves me weak in the knees!  I rarely see a 1860's gown that I love... usually they are just too dark, or plaid, or something other than "heavenly" like this particular one!  Two-piece, fine linen lawn gown with deep v-front bodice, pagoda sleeves, long back streamers attached to back bodice, bodice and trained skirt are trimmed with purple silk taffeta ribbons and embroidered white on white lace. Like I said "HEAVENLY"!   Measures:   35/36" bust, 26" underbust /ribcage (14.5" long from shoulder to bottom of bodice), 27" waist, 40" long skirt at front,  67" long at back.  Excellent condition with just the tiniest holes and period mends on skirt, pinhead rust stains and one on shoulder.  Other than that one rust spot shown in photo, most anyone would call this MINT condition.  Crisp, white, and strong! Shown with a hoop petticoat under (doesn't come with it -my hoop is a 1950's era, so you can easily buy one - find one where the hoops don't show through as this dress is fairly sheer).  The bodice is short, so you will want to wear a white or matching purple sash/belt.  Wearable for a 1860's Civil War era wedding gown... ooh carrying a bouquet of purple flowers.  I always say I seek out the best of the best for this website... you gotta agree with me that I hit the jackpot on this one, eh?  $ 2,685.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 2/4, small ribcage 6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4765 - c. 1922 Smashing Black Sequin Evening Dress on Netting! Oh my...  I wish you could see this sparkling in the light!  The photos just don't do it justice... perhaps I can add some video   Measures: 35/36" bust, up to 41" hips, 49" long from shoulder to hem. I've photographed it without a slip under to show detail and the sheer area of netting at the waistband.  It likely originally was worn with a black silk slip under, but I might suggest a nude color slip to show off the detail as much as possible.  Check out the great hanging netted scarves!  Excellent condition with tiny leg breaks here and there in the netting and some beads missing on the (to be) re-enforced shoulders (see photos).    $ 1,465. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-8, perhaps small 10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9986 - c. 1926/1927 EXTRAORDINARILY RARE ATTRIBUTED TO JEANNE LANVIN Ivory Silk Evening Coat with Fur Collar Lined in Brown Silk Velvet! This fabulous piece just came to me "out of the blue" from the descendant of a wealthy woman who travelled in only the best circles.  The family oral history is that this coat was a "runway" piece from Jeanne Lanvin's Parisian Couture house. My expert fashion historian dated it to likely Winter 1927 due to the bell-bottomed sleeves (introduced in 1926 - but at the height of fashion in the Autumn/Winter collections of 1927, when couturiers used all their design ingenuity in finding clever dressmaker details, and decorative treatments, to emphasize these flaired, wide-bottomed sleeves.  Certainly, the extraordinary cartridge-pleating on this coat qualifies as a "clever dressmaker detail."  The placement of this decoration, both to emphasize the width of the sleeve and to suggest a slight flare toward the hem of the garment, reinforces this probability.   The quality of the materials, and the craftsmanship, do suggest that this is real couture, missing label notwithstanding.  In the Fall of 1927, both Doeuillet and Martial & Armand showed coats that vaguely resemble this one, but while there are no specific "designerisms," to verify the Lanvin attribution, there is also no compelling reason to doubt the family tradition that it is, indeed, by Lanvin.  This MAY be a "one of a kind" sample, and if so... it's certainly extremely rare!  The exterior is ivory silk tightly gathered into the "feather" scalloped edged design in the bell sleeves and stepped sides and back.  The interior is completely lined in a brown silk velvet. The large collar worn as you see or high and tight (as often seen in the 1920s) is a brown silky fur (not sure what).  There are no closures on the coat.. it just stays open as you see, or use a brooch to close... the fashion etchings from that era just show coats held closed when wrapped.  It's quite small... as shown on the size 2 mannequin, it really should wrap a slight bit more... so it's better for a size 0 today.   The condition is very good... Excellent in the structure and the detailing, but the plain ivory silk has large waterspots (light, but they are there) in the front (see photos)... and age spotting on the inside (not seen) under the velvet lining. This is really a coat for a collection or museum as it's SO special!   Or certainly if you have a Lanvin retrospective ball to attend....  well, this should be one of the highlights of that evening!  A RARE DESIGNER 1920s COAT!  $ 5,000. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0 (check measurements above
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6819 - c. 1920's RARE Pink Silk "Hair" Flapper Cloche! The ULTIMATE Flapper Headpiece! Likely Parisian!  I will reiterate from the listing above... If you have been one of my website groupies for awhile, you might have seen the gold bullion "hair" cloche I sold some years back (still in my sold museum section). I bought that last one in London and hated to sell it as I had never seen another in my 35+ years of collecting.  So, since then I've been searching everywhere for others!  AMAZINGLY, I found two of these recently and again, it kills me to put these up on the website as I just LOVE LOVE LOVE them!!!!   And since, if asked what I would most like to collect, it would be flapper headpieces.  But I know there are others of "me" out there also with flapper collections, so... WAAAHHH.... you get the opportunity to own these forever!  Absolutely amazing!! It's a cloche woven with pink silk threads in the shape of a classic 1920's hairdo... complete with the wavy hairs all over, and the pinned up "longer" hair at the back and coiled at the sides in braids (Princess Leahish!). This piece has the original tiny purply-blue flowers at the sidepieces!!  Nice!! I suppose this is the ultimate hat for a "bad hair day"!!! Excellent condition with the only thing to mention a bit of "hair" out of place for an ever so slightly "tousled" look, and the silk interior is torn (though in most cases this would just be a total loss, so nice to still have some of the original interior silk... with writing!). This will easily fit a 22" head, and even a 23" head! Nearly impossible to measure, but it's large on my normal 22" head (as you can see in the photos) and will fit, but higher on the 23" head - see other photos).  I assume originally this was worn by a women who didn't yet want to cut her long hair into the fashionable "bob", so wore this over that full hair (which is why it's larger).  Absolutely a Museum quality piece! Likely Parisian piece - has some writing inside with name. Also listed in the Museum and Hats, etc. Category. $ 2,850.  SOLD on LAYAWAY
SOLD		#6812 - c. 1915 White Organdy Summer Party Dress with Original Blush Pink Slip!  How cute is this little number?  Incredibly crisp and beautifully white.  Practically like new!  LOVE the latticework edging at the sleeves, front, hemline and shorter at sides!  Simple ecru satin waistband... ooh, and then that great original spray of hanging flowers!! See the close-up photos to see all the detail!    Not much else to say, just the perfect little 1915 summer dress.  VERY wearable size!  Measures: 35" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 48" hips!  But as you can see, looks great on the size 6 mannequin as well.  The measurement of the bust is actually about 38/39", but I don't think you will be able to get this dress on with a larger than 35" bust, 41" long from shoulder to hem.  Snaps closure.  Blush rayon slip comes with it and is original. So pretty you could wear this to a wedding... as a simple wedding dress, or for your bride's maid.  $ 465.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6746 - c. June 1, 1880 (Museum Dated) Silk Satin Trained One-Piece Wedding Gown! I have a handwritten card with the museum tag number, and that same number written on the inside of the gown, so.... along with the fact that the dating matches my dating of the gown, I'd say we can pretty well assume that this date of June 1, 1880 is correct!  Now if only I had the name and address of the original wearer, I might be able to find a newspaper article or something about this wedding.  Alas...   However, I feel with years of therapy, we can get over this disappointment and get on with just loving the gown for what we DO know.  A one-piece gown in a silk satin champagne color with sweet front pointed bodice with dorset buttons, 3/4 sleeves, self fabric knife pleating, ruched bands and pleated circle trim, princess line at back.  Excellent condition with just a few tiny, tiny stains, one "pencil" mark on sleeve, and the worst... a water stain on the train near the hem (see photo).  Otherwise, underarms, the lining, and overall condition is near mint.  Measures:  32" bust, 22" waist, 11" across back. 52" long from shoulder to hem in front, 79" long in back.   $ 1,285. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 00 (see back width - making it likely unwearable today) (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6950 - c. 1900 Wedding Gown!  2-Piece Ivory China Silk Trimmed in Delicate Lace!  SOOOOOO pretty!!!  Like a true china doll!  The material feels so soft.  As you can see, this gown is on my size 2 mannequin so it will fit a small humanoid (as opposed to some of the other antique wedding gowns that seem like they must have been worn by 10-year-old brides).   Oh geez.... now I'm going to get arrested when some offender Google searches "10-year-old brides"!  Here's the shout out... "Just Kidding"!!!!!!!! :)    Anyway, back to this gown, the skirt is simple but with a delicate ivory lace trim and a wonderful plain lace trimmed overskirt.  The bodice has puffy shoulders and terrific diagonal lace sleeves (check those out!), lace drape at front, sweet organdy bows at shoulder, upper front and a large organdy bow with long ties at back! Measures:  33" bust, 27" waist bodice, 14" across mid-back, 28" waist skirt, 41-44" long from waist to hem.  Excellent condition.  There are small spots on the lowest edge of the organdy ties, and the overskirt has extreme minor pulls (that may well be original to the silk), and perhaps one bow is missing from shoulder.  I have to say that the silk taffeta lining is just beginning to be fragile, so it will tear, but it's near perfect now.  So just treat it carefully. In the future, you can stabilize or replace the interior taffeta. $ 645.   SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6877 - c. 1920's Beaded Flapper Dress on Cotton Netting!  I suppose I should tell you this is BLACK, even though it looks like it might be blue in the photos.  But it's black.  This is one of the great ones... on cotton netting.  As far as I know, all the 1920s cotton netting overdresses like this one where Made in France or Made in Belgium.  They are the best, as the cotton netting is extremely strong, so they are usually still in near mint condition (as is this dress!).   Since it's mostly sheer, it will need a slip under.  These 20s slips were just simple tubes with ribbon straps, so simple to make!  And you can make a few in various colors to give this overdress various looks.  Black will make the dress just look like sparkle.  White will give a dramatic look!  Light blue or pink will be sweet.  And red will give you that "Titanic Rose" look!! You can even wear a long slip so this will be a tunic length.  Note the fabulous design of these beads and sequins on the bodice... with tromp l'oeil long "necklaces" ... giving that Chanel look!  The front design is exactly the same as the back.  Will fit anyone small (as it can be worn slightly oversized, but measures:  up to 34/35" bust, up to 33" waist, up to 35" hips 43" long from shoulder to hem.      $ 1,185. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0-6
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6926 - c. 1880 Wedding Gown of Ivory Silk Satin Trimmed in Silk Floss Fringe!  2-piece Gown with Extreme Long Pointed Bodice! Ok gals....  for all of you fighting over the last 1880's wedding gown I sold, I found another... not quite as fancy, but with all the same wonderful detailing of the ultra long pointed bodice, double draped apron, silk floss and chenille fringe, long train, etc.  If you want to "fancy it up" even more, add pearl trim, and/or wax flowers and/or matching satin bows here and there (all those might have been original to the gown when worn for 1880 wedding). This gown already has other fabulous details including the high puffy shoulder sleeves, pleated skirt inserts, triple pleated cuffs, and dorset crochet covered buttons down front. Measures:  31/32" bust (10" across back), 25" waist, 40" long skirt in front, 74" long in back. There are minor small spots most in the left apron (see photos - these can be hidden in the folds) and some on the skirt.  Otherwise, just normal hem line dirt.  Really Excellent condition. Strong fabric like new!    $ 1,645.   SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 0 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9982 - c. 1920's CHANEL, Paris Adaptation Red Silk Velvet Flapper Coat! Amazingly, this is the 2nd of these Chanel Adaptation velvet flapper coats I've had! The first one was sold a few years ago, but was a black velvet.  This one is a strikingly beautiful ruby red silk velvet!!  To explain... there is the authentic Coco Chanel piece from the 1920's that are quite rare. So, a few of the top designers agreed to license adaptations which are exact replicas of the authentic items made from the same time period and often made using the actual fabrics bought from the designer.  I would imagine that this gorgeous ruby red silk velvet flapper coat is indeed made from the same silk velvet that Chanel used... because it is one of the plushest, softest velvet I have ever felt (and I've felt a lot!). The detailing is all in the ruched collar (similar to the Worth Velvet coat I sold from the 1930s).  The quality of the design is in the elegant simplicity.  The condition is Excellent on the exterior. The ivory silk lining has just a bit of ripping at the underarms.  It's a wrap coat with no closures, or you can wear open.  $ 945.   SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0-6 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6313 - c. 1898 Ballgown / Afternoon Trained Gown of Ivory Silk Faille with Pearls Trim with Separate Sleeves!  Wearable Size! Yup, here's a wearable condition 2-piece gown in a wearable size! And it's in Excellent condition!  Hard to find! So, where should I start?  I want to start with the trained skirt... because of the beautiful detailing of the three lines of faux pearls down the skirt front ending in chiffon centered pearl bows!!  The bodice has elaborated pearl beading at waist front, around waist,  down the front and around the sleeves.  Then there is additional silver (old patina) braiding, pearl and sequin decorative trim at bustline. The slightly gathered short sleeves were worn as you see for ballgown, and then the additional separate long sleeves were worn for less fancy affair!  There are the most minor of issues (I've photographed all!)... otherwise it's practically like new... the fabric is extremely strong!!!    There are some pearls missing - mostly at the waist front, and in the silver neckline.  One underarm is slightly torn, the top of one undersleeve has a very slight reddish spot, there is one small black spot on back skirt near hem, and the lining of the skirt hem is tearing.  These are SO minor, but I'm just telling you everything.  The photos will show you how picky I am being!! Measures: 33/34" bust, 25/26" waist, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 52" long in back.  Fits on me.. you should just have smallish back/shoulders and short waist.  $ 1,485.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9978 - RARE c. 1900 Black Chantilly Lace Skirt with Ruffles! Sure, you can find Chantilly lace shawls here and there, but when was the last time you found a total Chantilly lace c.1900 skirt??  And better yet, one with a mass of ruffles at the sides and back hemline?? This skirt was likely made by an expert seamstress back in the early 1900s from a Civil War era Chantilly lace shawl. Wonderful!  And in near mint condition with only a few of the tiniest pinholes (see photos of the only problems I've found).  Wearable with care.  The lace is not dry or weak.  As you can see, great care was taken in the making of this skirt to have the front and sides of the skirt show off the best of the pattern of the lace.  In order to do that, the back of the skirt had to be professionally tailored sewing the laces together in a bit of a patchwork (which you can cover if you want with streamers or panels of black silk.  If you wear the waist smaller, that will all be gathered and will not show.  Currently measures a remarkable 32" waist, 40" long in front, 43" long in back. You can wear at this size, OR as I said, you can gather in the back of the skirt (which will look great as you see in the photos) to make it fit any smaller waist. I show the skirt over an underskirt which doesn't come with it.  You can wear over various colors to create different looks. For the most spectacular ballgown, your mission in life then is to find (or make) a black Chantilly lace simple bodice with low neck and puffy sleeves (that's just the image in my mind, you might have another). But you have to own the skirt first.    $ 1,285.  SOLD  Approx. - SIZE 2-14 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6326 - c. 1920's CIERI, Hartford Connecticut Fabulous Teal Blue Silk Velvet Flapper Coat with Gold Lame Embroidery and Off-White Fox Fur Trim!  You have to look at the close up, and larger photos of this coat!  REALLY!  I had to make the photos so small at the left so you could quickly see both the front and the back of this amazing coat.  The only other flapper coat I have seen with a fully decorated back was a Liberty & Co. beaded coat I sold for & $7,750!  OK, so have you looked at the photos yet?  If so, you can read on. If not... I'll wait here for you.  OK ready?  Sublime color of teal blue silk velvet with burnished gold lame embroidery in deco floral design.  Closes with buttons one at top, one at hip, slightly wrapped.  The skirt of the front is slightly "skirted" for a bit of flounce.  The interior lining is almost as fabulous as the exterior.. in a bird silk (see photos).  Excellent condition with only a minor darkening of lining at upper back and the fox fur has some slight wear.  Still fluffy and not dried out or anything, just wear ... Still lots of life left as is, or you can easily replace the fur when the time comes as the coat is still in remarkably great condition.  Measures: 45" long from shoulder to hem. $ 1,585. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2-8 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6658 - c. 1920's White Net Gauze Embroidered Dress! Great dress with lots of detailing! Looks great on me even though it's way larger than I would normally wear anything, but that's the greatness of 20's dresses.... they are meant to be worn larger.  It's all about the dress, not the shape.  So if it's all about the dress, the dress better be fabulous... as is this!  So pretty, it can be worn for an informal wedding dress.  Ankle length on me at 5'2".  Shorter would also look great, or... wear with a longer underdress/slip.  You can choose any color, or white.  Fabulous white embroidery at mid section, filet embroidered lace in a zig-zag design.  Short cap sleeves.  Side snaps. The dress is in Very good condition as there is some pulling of material at side seams area ( see photos).  The dress may have been smaller at side seams?  Often these dresses look exactly the same front and back, but although the top is nearly identical both sides, the skirt is different in the back... beautifully embroidered.  I show the dress with a nude slip under, but it doesn't come with it.  Measures:  38" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 38" hips, 52" long from shoulder to hem.   $ 1,465.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6-10 (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6245 - c. 1882 Wedding Bustle Gown of Ivory Satin with Pearls and Silk Confetti Fringe! Back Lacing! Long Train!  Seems to be getting harder to find really special bustle gowns.   Or perhaps I'm just not looking in the right places.  Seems the only place I'm finding these really special bustle gowns is on my own website! :) OR, if you are quick, in YOUR closet! :)  Fabulous ivory satin wedding gown trimmed in faux pearls, great silk floss "like confetti" fringe and lace.  1882 was just before the return on the bustle, so you see the beginnings of the bunching at back with the mass of bows.  This is a one-piece gown with an attached inner slip. The bodice is cotton lined, so still in near mint condition. I love the back laced gowns... you just need the lace (a thin ribbon would work, or thin cording). Excellent condition with some pearls and the back lacing missing, minor spots in the skirt which can totally disappear with the right gathering, and the only other issue found is a minor light reddish hue on one side of bust (so light it cannot be seen in photos).  Really in as great a condition as you will find for any gown 127 years old! :) Measures: 36" bust, 24.5" waist, 13" across back, 42" long skirt in front, 78" long in back.  $ 2,450.  SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 2 (small waist) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6066 - c. 1905 MAURICE-MAYER, Paris Ermine and Crochet Lace Winter Jacket! Very Wearable Size! I was lucky enough to have found and sold a Maurice-Mayer trained evening or bridal gown (which you can still see from my museum archive pages at:  http://www.antiquedress.com/item2839.htm  Obviously this designer label created spectacular pieces!  This jacket being yet another.  Ermine, in the past, was the fur only worn by the royals. Finally the wealthiest women had access to ermine .... but you will still find only a few pieces from this era. Off-white crochet lace edged as you see in ermine fur and trimmed in black velvet flat ribbon.  Under the lace is a sheer voile.  The interior is a thin wool to ward off the winter chill. The two rhinestone encrusted buttons at front are decorative, just closes with hook and eye.  The condition is Excellent except for the fact that the original lining is gone (the lining in the sleeves is still there but totally shredded - as was the lining of the trained evening gown I had) and a few tiny rhinestones gone from the buttons.  The label luckily still remains!  You will still see the lace and chiffon trim still at the inner sides.  Measures a very wearable up to 47" bust (!), 14" across back armseam to armseam, 21-25" long from shoulder to hem (slightly shorter in back).   $ 1,285. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6-12 (14" across back) (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6255 - c. 1920's Gold and Black Reversible Lame Shawl with Black Velvet Trim! A wonderful art deco gold metallic silk lame evening shawl made of gold metallic and black silk lame fabric with an Art Deco floral design woven throughout.  Can be worn however you want... and reversible from the mostly black side to the mostly gold side. It is edged in black silk velvet.   Measures:  60" x  60" .  It is in great condition with a few exceptions... there are a few small wear/tears in the black velvet trim (see last photo) and just a hint (and I mean slight) tarnishing in one small area... otherwise quite brilliant!! The just don't make lame like this anymore!!!!   $ 945.  SOLD
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6450 - c. 1916 Butterfly Angelic Dressing Gown Robe! Undeniably one of the most extraordinary dressing gowns from the WWII era! I had a hard time trying to date this gown... it's in near MINT condition with extremely strong fabric and laces.  You think it's likely newer than 1916, but nothing else fits the style and shape, and certainly the only label in the gown at mid-back that reads "back centre" is older type and the older of European spelling of "centre".  The gown is a confection of pure cream color silk (?) and gold metallic trims. There is an inner skirt with tiny pleated hem and an overskirt of net with lace and gold metallic embellishments. The bodice has metallic stitching in a quilted pattern and gold accented laces around the neckline and down the front.  It buttons up the front.   Measures:  34" bust, 25/26" high-ish waist, 26.5" ribcage, 56" long from shoulder to hem.  Another way of dating this gown is for the length... which is fairly short, which was the "new" just-above-ankle length from the mid-teens.  If you are 5'2" to 5'4" it will be close to the floor as you see.  If you are taller, it would be worn at the more era correct length. I am at a bit of a loss confirming that the fabric is silk as it's just in too good a condition, so it's possible this is a very early "artificial silk" later named rayon.  It's a fabulous material, soft as silk, but strong as rayon!!    $ 1,895. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE 6 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#9935 - c. 1908 Black Lace Overdress Gown!  I'm dating this just by the Princess shape simplicity of 1908.  If you think I'm off by a few years, let me know. But I'm close, I'm sure.  Absolutely "killer" black lace overdress of extraordinary beauty.  All you would need is a colored or nude underdress (easy for a seamstress to make).  Think of the possibilities!  A red/burgundy underdress would give the Titanic look.  A nude would take their breath away!  White for an unbelievable Black & White gala ballgown.  Light blue would be darling... and any other color that suits your mood.  The long sleeves are horizontally striped lace, and the rest of the dress has an almost art nouveau look.  NOTE:  the square neckline shape is pinned at the lower straps, otherwise it was much too wide for her shoulders/bust... so you can indeed wear like this or if you are wider-shouldered it would be a bit more rounded neckline.  The dress is also shown worn long, but it WILL train in the back as it's longer.  Measures:  36/37" bust, up to 28" waist, up to 34" hips (best - but if you are larger, let me check first to see if it will fit. It has some give, but you don't want to stress it too much), 60" long from shoulder to hem in front, 77" long in back. Snaps in back are VERY strong, so just unsnap with care and strong nails! :)  The dress is in Very Good condition.... there are a few lace breaks and small netting holes here and there, but nothing dramatic (see photos).  Many are fixable with a few stitches.  The netting holes can be patched if you care, or just let be.  $ 1,285.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 4-8 (check hips) (check measurements above)
SOLD on LAYAWAY		#6061 - c. 1915-1920 LORD & TAYLOR French Blue Silk Velvet and Floral and Gold Lame Deco Evening Cape! I don't really have to say much about this, do I?  Come on... I mean, if you don't understand how great this piece is, then you probably shouldn't call yourself a deco lover! :)  I mean... just look at it! Even more special in person because the printed deco gold lame gets a bit washed out in the photos.... because when the light hits it, it just shimmers with gold highlights!! The gold lame deco design and embroidery is a persimmon coral, french blue, off-white and soft black. Then the french blue silk velvet similarly shimmers (as only antique velvet can!)from french blue to a silvery hue. Awesome!  In addition, you will see in the photos the heavy silk and gold metallic floss embroidery at the transition from velvet to lame.  Wide floppy collar.  Closes with simple hook/eye.  Fully lined in ecru silk crepe lining which is all over lightly water-stained, but still all there... and you won't ever see this when wearing!  Excellent condition exterior with just a bit of fading on one side only seen under the harshest of lights.  If you check out the cape under normal lighting conditions, you'll think I'm crazy... and you will find NOTHING wrong with it!   Measures:  51" long from shoulder to hem.    $ 1,685. SOLD on LAYAWAY Approx. - SIZE Small/Medium (check measurements above)
SOLD Click on image for additional photos!		#4539 - c. 1921 MADELINE & MADELINE, Paris Bottle Green Silk Velvet Embroidered and Beaded 2-piece Dinner Dress! Sold at Bergdorf & Goodman, Co. OK.. pay attention now...  you may not know this label, but you should! A very important Parisian label, they opened their couture house in 1919, but unfortunately they were one of the first casualties of the Depression so Madeline & Madeline garments are very hard to find!  The rest of the label reads:  Modele Depose  and Marque Déposée  (I suppose you want me to tell you what that means, but I'm one of those stupid Americans who can only speak American! :)    However thanks to my Canadian web-friend, who translated for me:  Marque Déposée means that the trade mark, in this case Madeleine & Madeleine, is registered and protected under law and Modèle Déposé means that the actual style is registered and protected.  THANKS Mark!  The Bergdorf label is one of the oldest I've seen!  Very dark bottle green silk velvet (chinchilla soft velvet!) dress with nude net bodice (see last photos - too small for my mannequin so it's a bit funny looking) with great draping at skirt side embroidered with ivory silk floss and tube shaped seed pearls in floral and leaf design.  The same embroidery on the batwing overblouse with wide floss and beaded waistband.  Simply elegant!  Excellent condition with just some beads missing which hardly affects the design from afar and three small velvet crushes at front skirt (just need steaming out). Measures:  32" bust (underdress), 26" waist, up to 36" hips. Also Listed in the Museum Section.  $ 3,850.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4056 - c. 1905 E. CHARLES, New York Ivory Floral Silk Brocade Lace and Velvet Evening Coat in the Style of the House of Worth!  Ah... if only I could prove my theory that this is indeed a Worth, with the importer's New York label.  I have seen a very similar piece WITH the Worth label intact. And certainly the details, inner pink mauve chiffon ruffle and beauty of the floral silk brocade material all seems to scream Worth... to me.  You will have to decide what you think as there is no way to do anything but to sell it priced "as is" with just the E. Charles, New York label. Gold bullion embroidered applique trim on dark olive velvet high collar and yoke and sleeve trim. Heavy dark ecru lace sleeves and yoke trim.  The pink mauve chiffon lines the lace sleeves and peaks out in pleated form at the cuffs.  Olive chiffon edges the pink mauve chiffon around cuffs and inside back of neck.  Condition:  The exterior brocade is great! As is the lace sleeves as is the cotton olive velvet.  The gold lace is tarnished, but all there. So, the exterior is quite wonderful. It's the interior with problems. The satin lining has quite a few slits  but is all still there. The pink mauve chiffon and lining is torn inside the sleeves and chiffon has a few tears at cuffs.  The chiffon is also worn at inside back neck (hidden with collar worn up as shown). Measures:  46" long from shoulder to hem. Excellent condition with slight dirt marks on exterior. So... it's a beautiful display piece, and with a relining, you may want to wear it out to your most special event.   $ 2,450. SOLD Approx. - SIZE Small/Medium (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6535 - c. 1926 Black and White Silk Print Day Dress!  I usually stick with evening or fancy dresses and gowns, but every once in a while a fabulous day dress comes along in near Mint condition.  So what's a girl to do?  Leave it there? No way!! Especially not when the dress is as "yummy" as this sweet thing.  Great black and white "daisy" silk print trimmed in solid black silk at tiered skirt, bow tie at neckline, stripes down front, back tie and bow at front dropped waist which has a terrific silver embossed faux buckle.  I can't find anything wrong with this dress... either in design or condition!  It's like new... Ok... except for one slight pull at back sleeve seam. Snap cuffs. Measures: 38-40" bust, up to 43" hips, 44" long from shoulder to hem, 14.5" across back between armseams.  No closures - just goes on over the head.  Meant to be worn loose.  A rare beauty! $ 685.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 6/8, perhaps small back 10 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#4597 - c. 1912 Incredible Bright Lavender Chiffon and Silk Satin Edwardian Gown with Crystal Beading and Beaded Fringe! Regal enough for a royal princess! And if you are anything like me.. that means YOU! I'm sure I was royalty during at least one of my previous lives! :) And I would certainly have ordered this gown.. perhaps one in every color! Wonderful brilliant lavender silk satin with an overlay of matching lavender chiffon covered with clear crystal beading in shapes of spires and dripping with crystal beaded fringe! She looks like a snowflake! (or is it just me!) And why do I end every sentence with a exclamation point?! The bodice is cotton lace. This is a gown for your collection, display or for those of you blessed with Audrey Hepburn's ultra thin frame. She was a tiny girl... so tiny that she even "enhanced" her bust with a bit of extra material inside!! The first "bra stuffer"! :) Measures: 32" bust, 25" empire waist, 36" hips, 58" long from shoulder to hem in front, 62" long in back. Heavily weighted hemline. Basically in Excellent condition. A few hooks need stitching, satin lining is just beginning to go, there are rhinestones missing from the ornaments around neckline on lace (I can probably fix that for you), one tiny hole in chiffon skirt, and the weighted hem needs a quick stitching.. but you will find fewer better in beauty, condition, ornamentation.. and last but by no means least.. in such a remarkable color! Note.. the necklace doesn't come with the gown... but the huge velvet orchid corsage flower at front was on the gown when I purchased it.. so it's yours. Looks great!  $ 3,450.  SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0/2 (check measurements above)
SOLD		#6179 - c. 1882 Black Silk Taffeta Bustle Gown!  Near Mint Condition! Like new!  Really... it's unbelievable that this is over 120 years old!  Wonderfully elaborate with all the bells and whistles you would want in a bustle gown - pleats, swags, bows, tucks, fringed gathered rosettes, crochet buttons, etc., etc.  Just take the time to look at the close-up photos of all the detailing (click on photo at left).  Even has things you didn't know you wanted, like the skirt having a hidden pocket under one of the tiers of lace. The cuffs are great - like little ribbon tied gifts.  The bodice is boned also with a hidden inside pocket.   Measures: 32" bust (fits more like a 30" bust due to 12" across back), tight ribcage, 26/27" waist, 40" long skirt from waist to hem.  Could certainly have been a half-mourning gown due to the black silk taffeta and white tulle trim at cuffs and neck.  Shown over a bustle not included.  For display, you would only have to stuff the backside with cotton or tissue for the right look if you don't have a bustle.  One of those elaborate pieces you can get lost in while looking at all the detailing.  Enjoy her!   $ 1,585. SOLD Approx. - SIZE 0 (check measurements above)
		NEXT PAGE
Home	ORDER		Email
Museum Wedding 1800-1840's 1930's-Today Special Under $150 Hats, Shoes, etc. Lingerie Memorabilia Furs, Etc.