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Dating to the early 1900s, this antique 2-piece handkerchief weight silk dress features LOTS of self-fabric gathers or shirring. I believe the fabric is called “china silk”. In a yummy chocolate brown with small white dots, this dress is a lovely example of an unlined summer weight dress in the classic pigeon breasted Gibson Girl style! Not a frilly, fussy dress but a delightful gown that simply floats!
The front of the shirtwaist bodice is decorated with four rows of shirring on the right and left front. The center front has wide box pleats on either side of the neckline with four more rows of shirring. Hooks and thread eyes fasten up the left side. I believe the hook at the neckline is the only one missing, and almost all of the thread eyes need to be remade. The sleeves are decorated with the same four rows of shirring at the shoulder and again at the cuff, making the wide, fluffy sleeve in between just billowing!
The skirt is also decorated in the waist to hip area with the same four rows of shirring, alternating with wide box pleats. The hem guard is made of a brown velour tape that not only gives the hem protection, but adds a bit of weight and shape.
Both pieces are in near immaculate condition. As previously noted, at least one metal hook is missing at the neck and the thread eyes need to be replaced. There are a few scattered pin holes on the left side of the bodice, but are hardly noticeable. No distracting flaws to speak of – an excellent display piece!
Approximate measurements are given for reference only as we do not recommend wearing clothing of this age.
Bust: 32”
Waist: 24”
Skirt Length: 43” | 
