Wedding Dress
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Doris V. French
(American)
Clothing MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1916
MediumMachine-stitched silk and cotton, with metal hooks and eyes and snaps, glass beads
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width): 49 x 25in. (124.5 x 63.5cm)
Hem (circumference): 62in. (157.5cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Sybil Gillett Smith
Object number2001.35.4.1
DescriptionThis dress is composed of silk satin, embroidered netting, plain netting, and lace applique (identical to those found on the matching wedding cap). The bodice is constructed in two sections: the top of the bodice above the bust is created from approximately four layers of netting. The top netting layer has applied Brussels-type lace and needlerun accents. This upper section creates the V-shaped neckline at front and back, and runs across the shoulders and forms the short sleeves. The lower section of the bodice is the satin, decorated with two triangular beaded appliques at the bust. The beads are a mixture of faux pearls and seed beads (off-white and white, respectively). The bodice length is extended on the right and left sides of the dress (measuring 16 inches at the center front and 20 3/4 inches on either side). The bottom edge of the bodice is finished with an 1/8-inch self-fabric cord. The skirt is made from two layers of satin. The lower layer is a plain, straight skirt. The upper layer is made from two large panels, cut on the diagonal at the sides. The upper layer is gathered at the waist in the front and back, while the lower layer is stitched smoothly to the bodice in front.
A plain-woven silk fabric lines the bodice. A series of metal snaps and hooks and eyes serve as closures, extending 24 inches from the neckline at the center back. At the interior of the bustline are two layers of scallop-edged gathered plain-woven silk fabric to serve as padding.
A plain-woven silk fabric lines the bodice. A series of metal snaps and hooks and eyes serve as closures, extending 24 inches from the neckline at the center back. At the interior of the bustline are two layers of scallop-edged gathered plain-woven silk fabric to serve as padding.
Status
Not on view
