This incredible 2 piece Belle Epoque era antique Gibson Girl dress reminds me of the phrase “gossamer wings”.  Decorated with delightful, tiny pintucks and lace insertions and trimmed with creamy yellow satin ribbon ruching, this marvelous vintage gown dates to the Edwardian era, approximately 1904. 

The bodice is demi-lined in sturdy white muslin and fully boned.  It fastens separately from the outer bodice in front with 9 hooks & eyes, which are all present, but are likely replacements.  The front of the bodice has a layer of lightweight fabric gathered at the top and bottom of the lining to provide the pigeon breasted look.  This layer has come loose from the bottom of the bottom binding of the bodice, but is easily reattached.  There is no fabric damage.  The outer bodice has no actual fasteners other than the 4 hooks & handworked eyes that fasten at the center back of the neck, which is boned.  The collar fabric is a lace panel which is gathered to a point at the center front, again adding to the pigeon breast look, and encircling the neckline. 

The skirt is unlined and fastens in the back with 1 hook & eye.  It is slightly trained and bustled.

The dress is in exceptionally good condition with only a very few scattered age spots.  The lace on the edge of the left sleeve cuff has a dark stain as shown in the photos.  The lower portion of the right sleeve also has some age darkening.  There is the slightest underarm staining.  None of these detracts from the beauty of this gorgeous confection!  There are a few scattered pinholes, the most significant being in the fabric where the collar turns down.  I tried to show this in the photos.  The holes, together, are about 2” along on the collar. 

Overall, the dress is very clean, white and sturdy.  It is in “as found” condition.  I did steam it lightly because it looks like the dress may have been washed.  It still feels like the starch is still in it.

When shown on an appropriately small dress form, this dress will be stunning and is a quintessential example of the “Gibson Girl” style and truly exemplifies "Belle Epoque".!  Nice for Victorian style weddings!

Measurements are approximate and are given for reference only:

Bust:  28”

Waist:  21”