This antique / vintage black silk skirt dates to the early
20th century – the late 1910’s World War I era and the end of the
Edwardian era.
Made of silk in two different weaves, the lighter colored
portion – almost has a gray/green tint makes up the largest part of the
skirt. At the sides, just below the
hips is a black taffeta insertion that is decoratively shirred, giving that
wonderful puffed, loose look so much in style as the 1920s began.
The skirt waistband is lined with a sturdy 2 3/8” cotton
band that keeps the shape of the waist neat and there are two loops for hanging
sewn in there. The cotton band fastens
with two original hooks and eyes at the left side front. A nice, wide 3 5/8” self-fabric belt is
tacked on at the bottom of the waistband and closes at center front with a
large black plastic button. Three hooks
and eyes on the interior are all present and keep the excess belt fabric neatly
in place. The skirt itself fastens at
the left side front with 3 snap fasteners and a hook and eye, all
original.
The skirt fabric is lightly gathered onto the waistband with
the exception of 4 directional knife pleats at center front that have
decorative stitching with a heavyweight thread that not only holds the pleat in
place, but adds a nice touch to the front.
The side taffeta panels are edged with the same thread, in a kind of
knotted stitch.
In amazing excellent condition, there are no obvious flaws
on this antique skirt. There is a very,
very small light spot on the back of the skirt, only mentioned because I really
looked this over in disbelief and finally found something! Quite a sturdy and wearable example of 1910s
clothing fashion.
As you can see, the waistband is larger than my dress form.
Approximate measurements:
Waist: 28”
Hips: 42”
Length: 36 ½” (measured
from top of waistband, NOT the belt)
 
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