Purple Silk Gown with Skirt Trim

1860's Antique Dress

From the Seller

This is a stunning purple window pane plaid gown from the 1860’s. The gown is fashioned of silk, and fringe trim, silk ribbon and bows. There is a matching apron. What is especially intriguing about this piece is it has a deep hidden pocket. It is camouflaged by the decorative pocket on the skirt. Seen from the outside of the dress. The hidden pocket may have been used for storing valuables while commuting. Damage as shown. Bust: 30” Waist: 24” Being sold as is. 

From the Industrious Lady

Can we take a minute to appreciate that pocket? Its so pretty and ingenious. Now for the rest of the dress, the skirt is set up for an eliptical hoop while the rest of bodice looks more early war. With the seam in the skirt right where it transitions from the curved to the straight trim, I would say its a remade dress from earlier in the 1860's. Someone may have taken the trim off the bodice to use on other projects. It is more of a check than a windowpane.The coat sleeves are a very nice example of how versatile the style was, and could be seen on everything from calico wash dresses to high fashion silks like this.