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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#5415- c. 1883/1884 Olive Colored Silk Taffeta Bustle Wedding Gown!  Attention, attention... calling all dressmakers!!  I never like to sell items that aren't in wearable condition or in really good condition, so this is an exception for me.  Selling this 2-piece silk taffeta bustle gown for study or flat display or for pattern.  Especially good for pattern as it's a wearable size (hard to find for all Victorian gowns).  Given to me from the Great-Granddaughter of the woman who actually wore this as a wedding gown.  Let's start with the measurements:  34" bust, 28" waist for bodice and 29" waist for skirt, 57" long from shoulder to hem.  See? Wearable size! And the upper back is wide enough for today's normal (though not wide shouldered) gals.  As you can see, it's pretty, especially the skirt with the "apron" front and nice chenille dripping from the swags.  Nice ruffled hemline.  The back of the bodice and skirt is just as beautiful a design.  The color is a difficult to photograph olive (probably different from what you see on your monitor, but that was the closest I could get).  Just think a green olive.  The trim is a light rose/brown changeable taffeta.  The buttons are marcasite (10 buttons, 2 are missing).   OK... now here's the big problem... the taffeta is starting to split, especially at the upper back of the bodice, the sleeves, and then the cotton lining of the skirt is totally ripped so the skirt is soft of hanging at the back without support.  There is a bodice spot on one breast, but surprisingly the underarms aren't bad!  The chenille trim is usable on a new gown.  This is NOT a total rag, but for me, this is not the normal condition I sell.  Price reflects the condition.  The skirt with a new lining, isn't bad. 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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