Description & background
 
For all of the brides who tell us they want to look like a Victorian ghost, this one is for you. 🤍 Sourced from the UK, Emmeline is a lacy, romantic dream. It is constructed from silk dupion, a lightweight, airy, and textured fabric. The bodice has a dropped Basque waist and a soft V-neck with layered soft cotton/rayon lace along the neckline and bust. The same lace is used to trim the narrow straps. The lace along the neckline is accented with pearl teardrops. 
 
The skirt is heavily gathered at the waist for fullness. It features ruffled sawtooth tiers that are accented with yards and yards (and yards) of lace trim. 
 
You can see a video of Emmeline on our Instagram account here. 
 
Note: Emmeline is shown in some of these images with an antique tambour lace cape that was made for this photo shoot, but it is not included with the sale.
 
Measurements & previous alterations
 
Measurements must be used to assess whether a gown will fit you or can be altered to fit you. A gown can usually be made 2-3 sizes smaller without compromising the design, but can rarely be made more than approximately 1/2-1” larger without making major modifications. The exterior measurements of this dress are as follows:
 
Bust - 37"
Waist - 26"
Hip - free
 
It is approximately a modern size 4.
 
Emmeline was previously altered, and the arm holes were lowered by at least an inch, possibly up to 2". We believe this was done in order to accommodate the original wearer's large bust, as the bust-waist differential in this dress (11") is highly unusual for this size. The depth of the armhole is normal by today's standards, but low by vintage standards. 
 
Condition notes
 
Emmeline is in very good vintage condition.
 
As you can see in the images, the silk dupion fabric used to make this dress is even more textured than silk dupion usually is. This is not a flaw; it simply means that the yarn used to weave the fabric contained slubs. 
 
Emmeline has been cleaned and is ready to wear, and while we cannot detect any obvious stains or marks, it is possible that some marks may exist, but it is difficult to tell because of how gathered and layered the dress is.