Description
This elegantly embroidered, ivory wool Victorian capelet dates from around the 1890s and looks spectacular considering it is over 120 years old! The smooth, mid-weight wool flannel is embellished all over with a paisley pattern of gold-tone metal threads that are technically “couched” rather than embroidered. (“Couching” means that tiny threads are used to sew the metallic fibers onto the surface of the garment, rather than pulling them through the garment, as with traditional embroidery.) A thicker metallic braid trim edges the rounded collar and the curved hem of the capelet, and is also used for the knotted button and loop closure at the neck. The collar and the inside of the inverted V-shaped front opening are both covered in a fabulously feminine layer of ruched cream silk chiffon, trimmed with rows of cream silk ribbon. Aside from this front opening section, the rest of the capelet is lined with palest shell pink cotton sateen. The capelet should fit approximately a modern XXS-XS, possibly up to S. It is smallest at the shoulder area (see measurements).
In good, wearable condition, this antique capelet has some issues (see photos):
- An area of fraying to its lining at the back of the neck (not seen when worn).
- Some faint spots on the lining fabric. The only really noticeable one is photographed.
- 1 faint, small gray mark above the hem, at the right front section.
- The chiffon trim of the collar and front lining is fraying at some of its edges.
It otherwise appears quite clean. The most visible parts of the capelet, the wool flannel outer fabric and the metallic trim, are both sturdy and intact. This lovely ivory wool, late 1800s capelet is shown here over my 1930s cream organza wedding gown—with which it pairs quite well! I love the idea of this special antique cape being worn by a bride, but it would be equally appropriate over a formal gown, or a Gilded Age, Victorian costume look.
Size: XXS to XS (perhaps S, with small shoulders).
- Length: 17 inches from back of neck to hem. Same length from front shoulder to hem.
- Shoulder to shoulder: will fit 14 inches maxiumum.
- Sweep/ width at hem: 74 inches total (37 inches when laid flat, doubled).
- Label: none
