Historical information

This black bodice likely belonged to Ellen Dowsett (1858-1953) of Maidstone, Victoria, or her daughter Ruby May Selina Wallace (1891-1973). It was donated by an Emerald resident who received it from Ruby. Sleeved whalebone bodices of this style were fashionable in the first decade of the twentieth century. If it belonged to Ruby - the most likely owner - she likely wore it towards the end of that decade and in the early 1910s, when it was a fashionable piece for a young woman. It appears some internal handsewn repairs have been made, ensuring greater longevity for the outfit.

Significance

This bodice is a very elaborate and interesting example of 1900s fashion.

Physical description

This black bodice is adorned with elaborate patterns sewn into the lace that decorates the front, back and sleeves of the item. Its interior is lined with a lighter fabric and supported by several whalebones, providing structure to the bodice. The outside appears unstructured with deflated sleeves and a gathered front. While modern clothes sizes do not map accurately onto those of the past, today it would be considered about a size 10 or 11.

Inscriptions & markings

N/A