Edwardian Shantung Waist

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This late Edwardian piece is actually wearable, unlike much historic dress. It's a black shantung waist --that is, blouse--probably worn for mourning. It fastens with a row of hook and eyes, with central decorative buttons beautifully wrapped in cording, and there's a border of guipure lace with a floral motif also bordering the collar and cuffs--which are also fastened with hooks. The sleeve is gently leg o mutton, the back hem is gathered, the whole is an oddly modern silhouette, though from late in the Gibson Girl era. Of course there are no labels, but the size is equivalent to a modern 4 or 6. Excellent condition for the age, with a few small pulls at the top of the left sleeve, and a little tear and damage at the right cuff, all shown here. The cuff buttons seem to have been restored by a contemporary using brown thread.

Measurements: bust 40", waist 28", length 15", shoulder 16"

STORY: I got this from my grandmother, who I think had it from hers. Honestly I'm not sure how it came into the family, but it's been hanging around as long as I can remember. Then it occurred to me: somebody should be wearing this!