1850's Ballgown

From the seller:

This auction is for an original Lady's Ball Gown from the Civil War period. It consists of the bodice, over-skirt and pelerine. The fabric is a lovely deep blue silk taffeta trimmed with black silk taffeta. The dress is beautifully made. It is piped at the armholes and the bodice hem is bound with self fabric. The bodice and pelerine are both trimmed with narrow velvet ribbon. The bodice closes up the back with its original hooks and eyes. The over-skirt is pleated at the sides and gathered at the rear. It fastens at center front with a hook and eye. Please note that the black under-skirt is not included. It is not part of the ensemble.

Condition: There is evidence that the bodice was enlarged a little under the arms and the waistband on the over-skirt has been replaced. Some of the trim is loose and/or worn.

Measurements are: The bust is 36 inches & the waist measures 28 inches. The length of the over-skirt is 39 inches in front and 46 inches at the back.


From me:

That elongated point was very popular around 1856/1857.