~ Elegant Civil War / Victorian 2 Piece Dress ~ ~


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This is a reproduction of a Civil War/Victorian 1860's era tea or afternoon dress. This dress is newly sewn by me and is constructed from authentic period patterns (based on actual garments from the period). This two piece dress would be perfectly for church on Sunday, an afternoon tea, or a stroll around the shops.

The fabric is a beautiful period looking striped/floral design in of pale beige and muted coral on a chocolate brown background. This dress features a beautiful swallow tail peplum in the rear which is lined with solid coral fabric. The bodice is trimmed with two ivory tassels on the bodice points, and 3 tassels and buttons adorn each sleeve. The dress is shown on a dress form with a bust measurement of 47 1/2 inches and a waist measurement of 42 inches. The dress is displayed over a 6-bone hoopskirt, which is not included. The skirt measures 44 inches at the center front. This dress is unhemmed, and is slightly longer in the back to give a more graceful appearance. This is a period correct method for hemming a dress of this type as it allows the skirt to fall gracefully over the hips and not ride up in the back. The skirt has a generous 238 inch sweep. The skirt closes in the center back with a hook and bar closure.

The bodice closes with hand sewn hooks and eyes. The buttons on this dress are a two hole mother of pearl look. The collar is basted in so that it can be easily removed if it should require bleaching, but is fastened very securely so that you don't have to worry about it coming off. The bodice is lined with 100% cotton muslin.

*** All fabric used is 100% cotton. All fabric was pre-washed before this outfit was made so that no shrinkage should occur.