Early 1870's Bustle Era Dress

From the seller:



all silk with holes this is a true antique has a lot of condition problems came out of a estate of lacy has tarers I always tare these up for the lace i could not do these mostly hand made the tops are in good condition the skirt has some tares but a lot of good lace 2 tops and skirt see more great for display for show or textile museum from Tennessee tops small skirt med.14




Questions and answers about this item



Q: dear seller, does the dress have any odors? smell of storage, moth balls, 0r mildew? or cedar? thank you. tennesee must be beautiful. thank you
A: yes attic its nice to look at its very fragil

Q: Hi, Are there any armpit stains, shredding or big holes? What are the bust and waist measurements of the bodice? Thanks
A: no arm pit stains 30 waist yes there are holes and shreading bust 36

Q: What are bust and waist measurements? Thank you
A: waist 28 bust 36

Q: What are the top's measurements: bust, waist, shoulder to top's hem? What are the skirt's measurements: waist, hip, waist to hem? Is the outfit lined? thank you
A: skirt waist inch 30 43 inch long . over skirt 32 back 22 front both flared top bust 34 jacket waist 28 its lined the skirt this is old silk display only has condition problems and been in a attic for 50 years


From Me:

So, either the waist is 28" or 30" - either way she was a slightly larger than average lady (remember, corsets!) and...it smells funny but we aren't sure what of. Hmmm...

That being said, it's from about 1872 or so.