Dating this pre 1920s top!

M

Melissa Lynn

Registered Guest
When I recently came upon some early garments, I decided to get them and am dying to know more! I don't even know what to call this one -- a corset top, a bodice? It seems to be well made and definitely is pre-1920s (or so I am assuming) but can you help in determining its era? Also on the fabric there is a set of 2 letters -- cc or gg -- could this have any relevance or is it something of a certain time? I have just never seen antique fabric like this but after all, I am new to it.

Any insight or help will be so appreciated!
 

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I don't personally think those are supposed to be letters, more a decorative pattern woven into the fabric, as the curls end at different points within each pair. A little bit of a foreign influence perhaps.
 
I'm not an expert on antique clothing, but similar garments I have seen are referred to as Victorian bodices. It's possbile that this could have been for mourning due to its color. If it is one of those, that would probably date it around the turn of the 19th century. Hopefully someone more familiar with these sort of garments will help confirm this and provide more information!
 
I need to see the sleeves on a mannequin or shown to highlight the shape and details. Mid 1890s had those huge balloon sleeves and yours look very narrow. It looks vaguely like those narrow tight "Bustle Era" sleeves of the 1880s, or possibly 1899-1903. Black is difficult to photograph and I cannot see the details. The cuff area is a clue but I cannot see it.

Is the front center waist pointed downwards? Or is it more straight across?
 
I think I see leg O' mutton sleeves, or at least voluminous sleeves. Yes, it would help to see it on a mannequin, or if you don't have a mannequin, a good clear shot of it from above and laid flat.
 
Thank you all for the input -- I think you all are right on but will try to to add better photos soon so we can pinpoint the information.
 
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