Mourning Bodice and Skirt c1900

Year/estimated time period: 1900 Short form description: Intricate mourning bodice and skirt in black. Long form description: A full length black Crepe wool skirt, detailed with a gathered frill at the lower edge with a black lace trim above. Skirt is fastened at the back with 6 metal press studs and secured at the waist with 2 metal hooks and eyes. It is lined with a black glazed cotton and in the front right seam of the lining is a concealed pocket. Fitted black, crepe wool, bodice has silk pin tucked insert fastened with 14 hooks and eyes. Full length puffed sleeves are gathered above the elbow and again above the wrist into a deep cuff. Bodice is trimmed with the same back lace on the skirt, as is the high-necked collar and the cuffs of the sleeves. Fully boned and lined with black glazed cotton, has shoulder pads along with additional underarm pads to absorb perspiration. Within the waistband of the bodice is a label which says ‘B Thomas, Dressmaker, Helston’ Model made by Purpose 3D