Mint Striped Voile Day Dress

Overview: The two-piece cotton bodice and skirt form an ensemble for day wear. The printed pattern is comprised of alternating green and cream stripes both of which are covered with lavender and orange flowers. It is possibly for a child or young teenager, as the across back measures 10", and the skirt waist is 21".

Construction: The bodice has a round neckline bound with bias self-fabric; the bottom edge is also finished in the same way. It has no bones but does have an inner bodice made from off-white linen which closes up the front with 13 hooks and loops, one at the waist, and another is just below the waist. The outer bodice does not appear to have any closure. The inner bodice has a center back seam and is closely fitted. The outer bodice is looser due to shallow gathers at the neck edge on the front and back. The fullness is also controlled at the center front and center back waist. The bodice has long sleeves, cut in two pieces. The sleeve length is controlled by gathers along both seams. There is a ruffle flounce (bagged out with linen), cut in a circle, gathered into each armscye. The skirt closes in the back with two hooks and eyes on the waistband. It is unlined. It is gathered all the way around. The skirt measures 31 1/2" from the waist to the floor in the front. The circumference of the bottom edge measures 144". The skirt has a 12" hem stitched by hand, though it appears it was once hemmed about 7" longer. There are hanging tapes on each side of the waist. There are 5 skirt panels which are about 28" wide.

Trim: The complex printed fabric creates most of the interest. A collar and cuffs would likely have been attached.

Damage: The ensemble is in good shape and was lightly worn. There are rust stains under the hooks and bars on the bodice, as well as some other stains and holes.