1890 Aesthetic Reform Dress Foundation XL

Discover the elegance and artistry of the Aesthetic Movement with this beautifully crafted reform dress inner bodice. Perfect for collectors, historical reenactors, and costume designers alike, this piece blends authentic period inspiration with thoughtful details, offering both comfort and timeless style.

This inner bodice, part of a two-piece Aesthetic Movement reform dress, showcases the movement’s commitment to artistic beauty and practical comfort. Constructed from cotton with full-length sleeves of black velvet, the bodice was designed to be worn beneath a sleeveless tunic. Offered as found.

Notably, the sleeves feature a distinctive pointed hem, a design inspired by medieval dress, adding a graceful, flowing silhouette. A small hole is present at the sleeve edge , and the velvet is somewhat fragile, shedding dust in areas, making the piece best suited for study or display rather than wear. Handle with care. 

As a reform garment, the bodice reflects the core ideals of the Aesthetic Dress Reform Movement: a rejection of the restrictive silhouettes and industrialized materials and finishes of mainstream Victorian fashion in favor of comfort, natural fibers, and hand-crafted artistry. The use of breathable cotton and plush (now delicate) velvet, along with the comparatively unstructured, flowing design of the piece, exemplifies the movement’s embrace of simplicity, individuality, and harmony with nature.

Modern size equivalent: X-Large
Actual measurements, doubled where appropriate.
Shoulders, across back: 17"
Bust: 42"
Lower hem: 31"
Length: 17"
Sleeves approximately 19 1/2"

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