Historical information

The fabric of this child's dress includes 'Broderie Anglaise, a form of needlework involving patterns of holes that are each stitched to form a finish that will not fray. The dress features a homemade button..

This handcraft dates back to the 1500s. It became popular in the 1800s and early 1900s, particularly for women's nightwear and underclothing.

Significance

This child's dress has handcraft and needlework skills that were popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The dress also features a homemade button.

Physical description

Child's dress, white fabric, with short sleeves, gathered waist and scalloped hemline. The bodice and shirt have Broderie Anglaise embroidery inserts, with the holes formed into a star pattern. The bodice insert is a 'V' shape. The back has a ribbon tie and is finished with a homemade button.