Antique Edwardian Early 1910s Black Silk Gown, Fluid Draped Skirt, Hobble-Era Influence, Small

Exceptional antique Edwardian to early 1910s black silk gown, dating to approximately 1909–1913. This gown is made from wonderfully smooth, fluid black silk with a soft liquid drape and features a wrapped surplice bodice with gentle gathering across the bust, a wide sash-style waistband, and a long skirt shaped with controlled side draping that creates a slim, elongated line. The silhouette reflects early hobble-era influence without the restrictive hem of a true hobble dress, allowing for movement while still maintaining that sleek, columnar profile. Covered buttons accent the bodice, and the long sleeves are finished with distinctive arrow-shaped cuff tabs, each detailed with silk covered buttons, above delicate dotted net sleeve hems layered over very fine sheer silk.

The bodice is constructed in layers, with a long-sleeved inner under bodice and a sleeveless draped outer layer, creating soft shaping through the torso. The interior is labeled B. Altman & Co. New York at the waist and is finished with a structured petersham (grosgrain) inner waistband secured with two hook-and-eye closures, providing internal support and helping the gown sit properly at the waist. The gown presents beautifully on the form and remains wearable with appropriate care.

Label: B. Altman & Co. New York
Content: Silk, net

Best Fit: Small
Underarms: 36"
Waist: 27" can pull to 28"
Hip: 46"
Length: 55 1/2" (center) to 57" (side)
Shoulder Width: 16"
Sleeve Length: 17 3/4"

Please note: the skirt is cut in a slim, columnar line with early hobble-era influence, so while the hip measurement allows room, movement is more controlled through the lower skirt.

Condition: Good! Wearable with care.
The delicate sheer silk lining at the dotted net sleeve hems shows tearing at the edges. There are also areas of subtle tonal variation to the black silk, appearing as faint bronze or lightened areas caused by age-related oxidation rather than a spill or surface stain, visible primarily upon close inspection. A few small areas of minor picking and abrasion to the silk are present and shown in the close-up photographs. Overall, the wear does not detract from the gown’s presentation.

Enjoy! #25-294

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