Gigot sleeved, 1825-30 late Regency bodice
This lovely bodice dates to c1825-30, the height of fashion for the huge gigot sleeves, and my goodness these are perfect examples! It came from the same family as the Dresden kerchief and I have other items, all passed on through the family, the last time being in the 1950's, which is my lifespan! It is so wonderful when a single family really treasures the clothing of their ancestors.
The bodice is very fresh indeed, with just a couple of points to note, so do read the condition report below. It is completely original, with an unusual back fastening of embroidered buttons and original linen ties at the high waist.
If you have Nancy Bradfield's 'Costume in Detail', [See 'The Study for full reference] do take a look at the dress on page 135, the bodice of the dress having exactly the same ruching detail. In this bodice the ruching is even more extensive and is interspersed with delightful cutwork embroidery, typical decoration of the period, and of course, all hand worked.
I love the diamond shaped seams at the back of the piece, accentuated with the eyelet decoration.
There is a little ruffle around the neck and to the tight cuff edges of the over-long sleeves.
A truly classic late Regency garment.
Chest 30", centre back length 12", Over-long underarm sleeve length 21"
CONDITION:
Very good condition with just a few tiny gentle marks of no consequence. A lovely fresh white colour.
In fact, I thought it was perfect, until I spotted the sleeves, on which there are two excellent 'invisible' repairs, one a simple patch and the other a tiny patch, darned over in tiny stitches. I think these are very early. No-one darns like that these days!
There is a pinspot hole and a minute split to the lower back, for absolute accuracy.