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White two-piece long sleeve dress with red sailor collar, red belt and red trim around wrists a…
two-piece dress; middy blouse, matching skirt, coordinating belt
White two-piece long sleeve dress with red sailor collar, red belt and red trim around wrists a…
Dress
c. 1895
Cotton pique
Museum purchase
Object numberP84.25.2
This charming ensemble features a “middy” style blouse, which was named after a naval garment worn by midshipmen. Children were first dressed in sailor suits in the mid-nineteenth century, and the style also became fashionable for women’s sport and leisure activities. Lightweight, washable fabrics and simple embellishments characterized the readily mass-produced designs.
DescriptionMiddy dress: white cotton pique with red cotton and white braid trim; V-neckline (lacking dickey); red sailor collar with braid trim; fitted back with welt tucks releasing at seat; one piece leg o' mutton sleeve with red braid trimmed barrel cuff; underarm side panel; front with three waist tucks at both sides and red braid trimmed scarf ties at both sides neckline; eight button center front closing. Matching skirt: floor length, five gore; 2.5 cm waistband; pleats at center back waist; front with princess seams; red band at hem with white braid trim. Coordinated belt: red cotton with white braid trim; 4.5 cm wide; hook and eye closing.
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