Antique-Gown

During the late 19th Century, there was an increase of interest in outdoor activities and in particular going to the beach. At the same time, there was a corresponding interest in having the right look for such occasions. For beachgoing, yachting, or simply spending time at the seashore, designers were quick to respond and by the 1890s, there was a plethora of styles available to women.

However, the "supreme discipline" of beach sports was clearly yachting. Yachting around 1900 (not comparable with sailing today) was only something for the upper class. Yachting costume pretty much followed regular day fashions with the only difference being an incorporation of nautical themes derived from naval uniforms, both officer and enlisted (i.e. sailors). Because of the nature of sailing, fabrics tended towards wool, cotton, and linen and trim and ornamentation tended towards the more minimal (although there were always exceptions).

This very elegant sailor style dress comes from Germany. It is made of a thin navy blue wool fabric. Chest neckline and sleeves are made of lace. Beautifully decorated with buff stripe border. Back closure by means of hooks and eyes. Small train.

Part of the ensemble is also a silk umbrella with a wooden handle, a belt with a silver metal buckle and an umbrella cap made of straw (decorated with a small anchor made of metal sheet). Excellently preserved. Very, very rare to find. The brooch is not included.

Chest: ~ 80 cm
Waist: ~ 56 cm
Length front: ~ 135 cm
Length back: ~ 160 cm