Brown Wool Bodice and Skirt with Green Silk Trim

Fin de Siecle / Gibson Girl · 1900s · African American

This fitted bodice displays the characteristic silhouette of the 1900s with its pronounced gathered sleeves that taper to fitted cuffs at the wrists. The brown silk-wool blend fabric creates a substantial foundation, while the distinctive green and gold decorative collar provides ornamental contrast. The bodice shows evidence of internal structure typical of the era's corseted construction, creating the desired hourglass silhouette. The sleeve fullness is concentrated at the shoulder and upper arm, following the period's preference for dramatic sleeve volume that balanced the narrow waist. The decorative collar treatment suggests this was a garment for respectable social occasions rather than everyday wear.