Australian Dress Register

This dress is of historic significance. While ladies of the Victorian (and Edwardian) periods are often stereotyped as being svelte, retaining their small waistlines throughout their lives, with the aid of corsetry, this garment is a lovely example showing the transition of shape of a real Victorian.

By the second decade of the 20th century (between 1910 and 1915) the differences between Victorian and Edwardian clothing became pronounced. The full flowing skirt of the 19th century evolved into a slim fairly straight one, which eventually rose above the ankles. Bodices in this period were rarely boned, and as such, were looser and baggier than their predecessors. Sometimes the wearer accentuated their figure with the application of a belt, similar to the one worn by Clara as part of this stylish ensemble. Whereas the Victorians often reserved black garb for periods of mourning, in the period prior to World War I, street clothes were often of a subdued colour, with black regularly favoured by older ladies, being both practical and elegant.

This dress features a triangular lace panel at the skirt back, which complements the separate lace 'modesty vest' worn underneath the silk blouse. The large covered buttons are a feature on both the front of the blouse and down one side of the slit in the back of the skirt.

Author: Michelle A. Maddison, 15th July 2010.

Three-piece dress worn by Clara Boyton (nee Gracie), just prior to World War I. The dress comprises:

Skirt - with triangular black lace and button detailing at front

Bodice - with button detailing on front

Modesty panel - black lace