Original Edwardian Dress Dyed Purple in the 1970s

A beautiful and unusual Edwardian cotton dress dating to the early 20th century, later hand-dyed purple in the 1970s by a woman in Germany who was deeply immersed in the hippie movement and had a particular love for the colour purple. This dress is a wonderful example of how fashion is cyclical, and how historical garments were re-imagined, worn and loved again decades later by the counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s.

During the hippie era, vintage clothing was not only worn but actively sought out — Edwardian, Victorian and early 20th-century garments were embraced for their craftsmanship, romance and individuality. Alongside an interest in global and non-Western dress, such as Afghan and Indian garments, there was also a deep appreciation for old, second-hand and historical clothing. This dress sits beautifully within that tradition, carrying two lives within one garment: its original Edwardian existence and its 1970s revival.

The dress is made from fine cotton and features delicate embroidery and detailing throughout the bodice and sleeves. The bodice is softly cut with a relaxed, fluid shape, where the underarm flows into the waist rather than being sharply tailored, creating a gently bloused effect. The skirt is full and flowing, giving movement and ease. The sleeves are set in a drop-shoulder style, contributing to the relaxed silhouette. The entire piece has been dyed a rich, soft purple tone, characteristic of 1970s colour sensibilities.

The dyeing is not uniform, as expected from a hand-dyed garment. There is visible variation in tone, particularly through the bodice where the dye has taken more softly in places. This is not tie-dye, but rather an organic, uneven saturation that speaks to its hand-altered history and adds to its individuality.

Measurements are taken flat and are approximate.

Please compare these measurements to a similar garment you already own to ensure the best fit.

Bust (pit to pit): 47 cm / 18.5 in

Waist: 33 cm / 13.0 in

Hips: approximately 64 cm / 25.2 in

Neck opening width: 20 cm / 7.9 in

Arm opening: 14 cm / 5.5 in

Sleeve length (from neckline to cuff, drop shoulder): 51 cm / 20.1 in

Total length (shoulder to hem): 114 cm / 44.9 in

Due to the drop-shoulder construction and softly shaped bodice, the dress wears more fluidly through the upper body than the measurements alone suggest. The waist is fitted, while the skirt allows generous movement. Best suited to a modern S, or a slim M depending on proportions and desired fit.

Condition is good but not perfect, and this is reflected in the character of the piece. There are small pinholes and areas of wear, particularly around the neckline, consistent with age and repeated wear. The purple dye shows areas of fading and uneven uptake, especially on the bodice. These elements are part of the garment’s history and do not affect its structure or wearability.

A rare and evocative dress that tells a layered story of Edwardian craftsmanship and 1970s counterculture, perfect for those drawn to garments with soul, history and individuality.

Approximate modern size: S (can work for slim M)