1890 Aesthetic Reform Dress Bodice Foundation, Large

Discover the 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.

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

The outer sleeves of this Aesthetic Movement top are crafted from rich velvet, while the bodice is made of polished cotton. The bodice embodies the movement’s commitment to both artistic beauty and practical comfort. Constructed from cotton, it was intended to be worn beneath a sleeveless tunic, protecting the outer garment from contact with the corset. Functionally, this section of the top served as a corset cover while also allowing freedom of movement, separating the wearer from the constricting elements of traditional Victorian dress.

Condition: 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. The velvet is somewhat fragile, shedding in areas, making the piece best suited for study or display rather than wear.

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.

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