18th Century Clothing Gallery   

An online gallery of genuine 18th century clothing, textiles and accessories from my private collection.

Galleries

Antique American 18th Century Damask Silk Bodice

This authentic period American Bostonian bodice originally dates to the 18th century. The silk is a floral damask and fully lined inside with white linen. The bodice is beautiful and the condition is good for it's 200 + years of existence. Some flaws are staining beneath the arms with frays beneath the arms on the body, one of which has seen a built stitch repair. The lace on the arms is probably either original or an early Victorian addition.. This is an amazing bodice to look at and really gives you an idea of the high standards of silk production and hand stitching that went into making this bodice. It was probably only used for more formal occasions and seldom worn.

An excellent example of a typical 18th century neckline.

Antique American Quaker 1790 Bodice

A dress bodice circa 1790-5. This is a fascinating period in fashion history as trends were developing from the stiffly boned bodices of earlier decades to the more fluid lines of the Empire. Remnants of an attached skirt indicate this bodice was part of a dress constructed in the open robe style. There is evidence that this dress underwent an early alteration. The back waist was shortened and an original hand-sewn buttonhole at the front waist points to a possible fall-front opening which was a feature of some gowns in the 1780s and early 1790s. The bodice is composed of light brown taffeta and lined in glazed linen. It is stitched entirely by hand. There are no front closures. The fronts were made to be stitched smoothly closed over the stays. Condition is excellent with only some minor discoloration under the arms, because of the color, this is not very noticeable. Measurements are 38 inches at bust and 34 inches at waist. Overall, this is an excellent example of a rare early bodice from a unique period of fashion history! It is displayed it with an attached skirt of muslin similar in the manner the original was attached over a reproduction wool petticoat. Please note the long fitted sleeves that cover the top of the hand. Through the 1780s, then 90s, the sleeves became increasingly longer and better fitted.

Antique American 18th century Bodice

Probably of earlier 18th century construction but altered in Victorian times. Originates from New York. Silk brocade. Boning and brown velvet added later. Lining has been replaced but it seems that there are some remnants of the original lining.
 

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