Historical information
The bodice is of a style from the Victorian Era and so provides a good example of women's clothing from that time. Although it appears to have been made at a later time the lace possibly came from an earlier time period. It is of historic interest as it was amongst the belongings of the donor's Great Aunts who were both dressmakers at the original Terang & District Co-Op which was established in 1908.
Significance
The item is of significance socially as an example of women's clothing in the Victorian era.
Physical description
A short, waist-length bodice most likely made as a performance costume. It is representative of a Victorian bodice style though the lacing used indicates that it would not have been worn in those times due to its revealing design. Flexible metal stays provide shape to the bodice at the front and back. Sleeves are elbow length and lined with cream fabric. The bodice has a lace collar and the sleeves are trimmed with the same lace. Small gold coloured beads are stitched to the flower centres of the lace pattern. The burgundy coloured satin has an embossed floral pattern. The lace is of interest as it is from an older time period and being beaded would be especially sought after. Machine and hand stitched.
Subjects
References
- Website: Marna Jean Davis - Clothing Historian Website showcasing Victorian and Edwardian Clothing History. The blog section, October 2018, shows the construction and pictures for a similar style bodice with stays classified as a late Victorian style.
- Website - ThoughtCo "History of the Sewing Machine" The quote below from the website implies the widespread use of machine sewing did not begin until the early 1900s which would date the construction of this bodice to after the Victorian Era. "It was not until 1889 that a sewing machine for use in the home was designed and marketed. By 1905, the electrically-powered sewing machine was in wide use."
