A simple day dress, hand-sewn for everyday wear, is a real rarity today. These dresses were often worn until they were completely worn out, or they did not stand the test of time. It is therefore particularly remarkable to have such a well-preserved example from the 1880s.
The 1880s were a time of social change and the industrial revolution. The fashion of this era was characterized by elaborate dresses, often with bustles, worn by urban ladies. However, this fashion was hardly practical for women who lived in the countryside or ran a household. A bustle would only have interfered with housework, which is why simpler cut dresses were common for the everyday life of women on farms or in middle-class households.
This dress is made of cotton and is printed with a charming moon and star motif. Cotton was a common material for everyday clothing as it was robust and easy to care for. The dress has an implied sailor collar, which was fashionable at the time and added a touch of elegance. The buttons are made of a vegetable material.
Despite its rarity and age, the dress shows some signs of use and time. The print on the fabric has faded in many places, indicating frequent wear and washing.A small hole in the waistband and slight signs of wear on the collar are evidence of intensive use. There are also isolated tiny holes and stains as well as slight discoloration at the hem, which underlines the authenticity and historical value of the dress.A hook to close the dress is missing, but this does not have a major impact on its historical significance.
This simple day dress from the 1880s is a fascinating testimony to the history of fashion and the everyday reality of women at the time.It shows how practical and functional clothing had to be in order to meet the demands of daily life. Despite its age, it has retained its charm and beauty and today offers us a valuable insight into the past.
Chest: ~ 80 cm
Waist: ~ 66 cm
Length: ~ 124 cm