Vtg Southern Belle Ball Gown

Vintage ball gown in the Southern Belle style of the 1850s and 1860s, although we suspect it's from the 1940s with later additions. Boned, pointed bodice with short, puffed sleeves can be worn on or off-shoulder, and is constructed in period-correct Victorian style. There's a front inner drawstring around the top for a custom fit. Bodice is trimmed with antique cotton lace, floral embroidered details, and a silk ribbon bertha in shades of pink and peach. Interior is cotton twill.

Entire dress is covered with finest cotton tulle in creamy white. The extra-full skirt is actually multiple, flounced layers. Beneath the soft, flounced outer layer are three additional layers of pale-yellow silk organza, each with at least one deep hem flounce -- the topmost of these is embroidered with golden thread at the nylon tulle hem. Beneath that is an attached, flounced nylon net crinoline.

You can wear the dress as is (quite full), or add an additional hoop petticoat (not included) for a truly dramatic statement.

Ball gown closes at back with interior cotton ties at the underdress and hook&eye tape at the exterior bodice. Pinked inner seams. Exquisite details and exceptional quality. Perfect for your wedding, quinceanera, Victorian ball, prom, or other formal or costumed event.

I'm told that this magnificent dress was worn in an episode of the 1990s soap opera "Passions." I strongly suspect it was beautifully cobbled by a talented wardrobe department from high-quality vintage gowns. I would not be surprised if it were used in previous films. From my personal collection. 

Labels: none

Fiber/Care: cotton, silk, nylon / dry-clean

Condition: no flaws to note

*This dress is clean and ready to wear, although you'll want to steam out any crumpling/rumpling that happens in transit.*

Garment Measurements:
 bust: 35"/89cm (will fit up to 36"as is, plus
  there are generous seam allowances in bodice)
 waist: 26"/66cm
 hips: free
 skirt length: 39"/99cm
 hem sweep: ~144"/366cm

(BDV SKU: 00597-001)

☞ Our items are not newly manufactured "vintage style" pieces. They are true vintage, at least 20 years old. Please read condition report provided above. ☜

Note to International Customers: Significant overages in shipping fees (where applicable) will be refunded. You are responsible for any taxes or import fees.