Victorian / Early Edwardian Black Silk & Lace Boned Bodice | Antique Embroidered Jacket | c. 1895–1910

An extraordinary late Victorian to very early Edwardian boned bodice dating to approximately 1895–1910, constructed from layers of black silk and embroidered net lace over an internally structured cotton foundation with built-in boning and waist stay construction. Pieces like this occupy that fascinating space between garment and object — deeply historical, yet somehow incredibly modern when styled in a contemporary way.

The silhouette is sharply tailored through the waist with softly sculpted sleeves and a dramatic open front designed to frame the elaborate high-neck underlayer beneath. The black embroidered lace overlay has a beautiful dimensional texture, while the cream embroidered tulle neckline and sleeve panels create a striking contrast that feels simultaneously romantic and severe.

Internally, the construction is remarkable: hand-finished seams, internal hook-and-eye closures, boning channels, waist stay tapes, and layered structural panels typical of high-quality late Victorian/early Edwardian tailoring. The long cotton waist tapes at the back function as internal waist stays, helping distribute tension and support the shape of the garment when worn over corsetry.

Although originally intended to be worn over a corseted silhouette, we loved styling it in a more deconstructed way — partially fastened over trousers and lingerie-inspired layers, almost in the spirit of early Vivienne Westwood or Yohji interpretations of historical dress. It works beautifully as a true period piece, but equally as an avant-garde modern layering garment.

Condition is wearable but imperfect, as expected for a garment well over 100 years old. The piece has not been washed with water and should not be submerged due to the internal metal boning, which could rust and damage the structure. It has instead been carefully aired, spot cleaned where possible, and steamed for freshness.

There is some staining/discolouration beneath the arms on the inside caused by deterioration of original internal padding that has since been removed. There is also some fabric deterioration and fragility behind sections of the embroidered net neckline and inner construction. In addition, there is some rusting to the hook and eye closures on the inside of the jacket/ bodice. Importantly, these condition issues are internal and not noticeable when worn — visually, the piece presents beautifully and it is still very wearable, and there are no flaws on the outside of the piece.