There is a hand written note in ink with this item India muslin wedding dress with neckline insertion, worn by my grandmother Hon Jane Elizabeth Wain?, daughter of Lord Headley of Agador, Co Kerry (Ireland) 1811. Lived at Lea Castle, Simmonsbath, Exmoor. Died in Rome. It also says Wolverley House, Jersey. They probably had two residences. Obviously there is some connection between the wearer of this dress and the wearer of the men's stock, waistcoat and shirt of the 1780's, but because of the date difference they can't have married each other! Also although the note says worn in 1811 I feel this dress is c 1805 . Fantastic! So light. One can just imagine this worn with a Kashmir shawl.
of the finest Indian muslin with simple scooped neckline, very shallow bodice 3 in; 7 cm with a tape for under the bosom, the side straps narrowing to fasten to the shoulder with small covered Dorset buttons, fall front opening, a cotton under bodice with tape ties under bodice, the back inside with similar ties, the back neck threaded with narrow cord for adjustment, the front with a narrow band of Buckinghamshire bobbin lace from centre neck to hem, the back with set back sleeves and tight gathers to centre, large and curving train, about 34 in; 87 cm bust, front shoulder to front hem 4ft 4 in; 1.32 cm, shoulder to back end of train 9 ft 6 in; 2.9 m
Very good. The tight gathered section at the back of the dress was loose when I purchased this dress, so I have had an accredited conservator re gather it. It has also been washed by her. Two feint, feint marks are left on the skirt at front near the hem.
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