Back to my Australian find – I found the best photo and description of this gown and Stella shows it off properly. I gasped when I discovered it. It may even have been a wedding gown back in the Depression and World War days of the 1930’s and 1940’s when they were often simpler. But, I suppose they had the equivalent of “debutantes” in that society, too. The custom of showing off young, marriageable women “of good family background” was a widespread practice that still persists in some places.
Lots of clues: Since Australia is closer to Southern Asia than we are in North America, silk may have been a more popular fabric for better dresses than it was here. A friend of mine says that she remembers the wired necklines from the 1950’s. This dress was made for a VERY tiny person (even more so than Stella), so it could have been floor length on the original owner. Impossible to say for sure.
Anyway, it’s beautiful and unique with an interesting history. I’m glad to have it home where I can show you a better photograph. Fully lined, with covered buttons at the wrists and that collar with wiring all around the edges – it was quite a tailoring project for someone! It’s really one that makes me wonder what stories it can tell . . . . .
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