Chaste and yet elegant best describes this lovely antique cotton chemise from France. Made of a med/light-weight cotton fabric, the front bodice is edged with a wide, sheer Swiss eyelet. The lace that encircles the arms and neckline is made of fine linen. The neck portion is entwined with a thin satin ribbon which ties at the front. More Swiss eyelet at the hem and a sturdy and yet delicate faggoting at the waist finishes it to perfection. The elderly lady I acquired this from said it belonged to her mother-in-law who said she'd worn it as a young girl and had always treasured it because it was from France. A look at the elequent seams makes me believe this to be true as they are perfectly finished with overlocked French hems. This was obviously no home-made piece but rather acquired from a very high quality clothier. The only flaw to be found is a faint pink smudge on the front bodice (pictured). It is otherwise snow white, free of stains and in extremely strong condition. Measuring this is difficult as the amount you gather the ribbon at the top determines the bust size. The bust as pictured is 34", the waist measures 26.5"and the length from waist to hem is 37".
Hand laundered, air dried and pressed. c. 1920-30 Excellent condition
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