This piece is beautiful!
Made in the late 1930s or early 1940s it is made from inky black wool crepe and the fabric has a lovely weight to it meaning it hangs nicely.
The bodice is close fitting with three quarter length sleeves and loop detail at the neck. The "overskirt", sleeves and bodice are decorated with metal discs which have been glued to the fabric. It has poppers on the side placket and the back bodice has poppers running down the back.
At some point, someone has added the purple trim to the sleeve edges, collar and belt. The sewing on the purple isn't to the highest standard but the overall look of the piece with the purple is beautiful. You could remove it if you wanted to.
Measurements
The dress will best fit a 40-30-42 but to ensure it will fit you properly, please compare the measurements below to a similar garment you already own;
Flat bust 21"
Flat waist 16"
Flat hip on the main skirt 22"
Shoulders between sleeves 16.5"
Shoulder to waist 17.5"
Shoulder to hem 47"
Underarm sleeve length 12.5"
Condition
Very good with some minor points to note;
- when we bought it there was a brooch on the front neck. It had been sewn on and when we took it off there is a slight mark where it once was
- there is discolouration on the front yoke on the inside of the piece
- as mentioned above, the stitching on the purple is crudely done
- there is one small repair under one of the metal discs. The repair is on the back skirt