'Belle of the Ball' - Gown C1880's. Rose pink silk VGC

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English speakers only please.

My Buy it Now prices do not include greedy profits. The price reflects the amount I paid at auction. Simple as that.

This gown is out of this World!

It is in superb condition, and has an extra secret, which I will mention later.

So that no-one is disappointed, I will mention the size right from the start - it is size 32" chest and 24" waist.

My Porsi is too wide for the bodice, so any pins you see are balancing it on her shoulders!

A two piece gown, the bodice as you see, fastens in a corset - like manner with ties to the back. I think it is probably off the shoulder when worn by a real person!

The whole item is a superlative mix of the softest, rose pink silk, silk chiffon with gold thread work checks, gorgeous lace and bows, in doubled satin and silk.

I don't think I need to describe it  - the pictures tell the story, except to say do not underestimate the train - I had to clear my furniture in order to fit it into my sitting room!

If you can see rather dull straps, please be assured that these belong to the upper part of my 1860s crinoline frame, which filled the skirt out very well indeed, but is not part of the gown.

The gown is in fabulously fresh condition - just a couple of minor points to mention:

A few food or drink stains to the front skirt - I could not pick them up even with a flash. Spot clean - should be easy.

A couple of darker stains, one to the pleated chiffon train trim that I only picked up from the photo's. Another very small to the skirt. [See photo's]

The very top edge of the bodice has a trim of netting that is worn. Remove it if you want to but it looks quite natural as it is.

Finally and incredibly minor, the ties to the back have very old and large tapestry needles attached to help thread the ties. Very useful. Dont forget to take these off before you go to your ball!

Everything else is as fresh as a daisy!

Wonderful!

The secret? Not mentioned at all by the auctioneer, perhaps not spotted, I wondered why an 1880's gown had a train but not a bustle. I examined the back closely and found the traces of threads.

Turning the skirt inside out, YES, the remains of one tie and placements for others. This gown was a bustle back and the lady removed them when the fashion changed!

If you would like the option of a bustle back, it would be simplicity itself to add new ties. I will do it for you if you ask me.

However, I must tell you that I adore it exactly as it is, the train being so very romantic without any extra fuss.

It is lovely to find a secret though!

Oh, and another secret! Next to the old tie placements inside the skirt and beside a seam, is the lady's name, a little faint to photo, but it is there when you look for it.

A Belle of the Ball gown with its own secrets. Who could ask for more?

Please do take a look at my other items if you have the time!

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