I always look forward to attending the Vintage Fashion and Textile Show in Sturbridge, MA. The show is always held on the Monday before Brimfield opens and the nice part is it is in an air conditioned hotel.
This year there was more vintage menswear displayed and a quick look at the attendees supported that men are beginning to take notice of vintage fashions. However, my interest continues to be with the fashions from the late 18C. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find matching skirts and bodices however one dealer had several 2- piece walking suits that were in exceptional condition. It was difficult to select only one.
Another sweetheart of a bodice was made in France circa 1870. It was a pale blue and white stripe, so refreshing and summery, it had the original bones and full lining. This piece was very difficult to pass up.
I decided upon an uncut bodice, that means it had not been part of a dress that was cut into a top and bottom. It was made in England in the 1880s of ivory and black silk. The style was unusual and the dealer was exceptionally helpful and pleasant.
The front has jet beadwork which I was not able to capture in this picture
This is all silk ruching completed by hand, some of the jet beads are visible at the top of the bodice
Here is some of the black jet beading around the sleeves, all hand stitched
Till next time, stay well, stay happy.
