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Our next very lovely model is wearing an outstanding, two- piece, corded, taffeta gown of distinct designs. This was worn about 1898. The black lace jacket with high neckline consists of a white lace insert which falls over purple lace. This extraordinary reticella lace is a form of needle point with geometric designs connected by picket bars. It was very intricate work. The decorative beads and sequins are of silver, and are hand sewn at the neck line. The long sleeves have cut lace at the cuffs with braid trim. Oh yes, much thought has been put into the design of the jacket. Please note the skirt of corded taffeta, as it has two small flounces with braid trim. This extravagant two piece black-corded taffeta gown is quite breath-taking, as it captures one's attention immediately. It is quite beautiful and would be worn to an important reception with, no doubt, many people in attendance.

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Two piece gown.
1898
Calvin United Church, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada

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Three piece suit.
1870
Wesley United Church, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada

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Our next attractive model is wearing a noteworthy three-piece costume of 1870. The cape is of dark green fine wool with a particular braid design hand-stitched to the fabric. The bolero is of handspun wool made by an early settler. Here we have red, black, green, and blue, an inspiration in colour combination, using great imagination to give real life to this bolero. Now this is a classic example of ageless style! This costume could be worn with confidence in any fashion show today, don't you think? The skirt of dark taffeta suits nicely. This three-piece costume could be worn to meet friends, to go to church, to go to a meeting, or just for a walk. This costume could take the wearer anywhere

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There are two views of the next fashion - one each at the two fashion shows.

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Two piece suit.
1882
Wesley United Church, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada

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Our model looks absolutely beautiful in this satin suit of 1882. Please savour the vibrant colour of this fine copper-tone satin suit. The jacket with high neckline has neat pleats at the front with small decorative buttons all the way down the front. The sleeves, trimmed at the cuffs with elaborate corded bows, are most interesting. The full skirt has flattering lines with a bustle which creates a note of smart design pertaining to the 1800's. An artistic corded sash drops at the side to cover the closure. Remember that zippers were not yet in wide usage. The wearer would feel most comfortable to mingle at any reception or dinner party. She would know full well that this splendid suit would signify the very latest in design. Just think of it, this beautiful three-piece satin copper- tone suit has an added muff!

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Two piece suit.
1882
Calvin United Church, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada

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Two piece wedding dress.
1895
Calvin United Church, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada

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Another of our beautiful models wears this two-piece black taffeta wedding dress of about 1895. This beautiful black wedding jacket has an attractive "V' neckline which allows heirlooms to be worn to great advantage. A black trim is used on the jacket cuffs. The cut of the material allows the skirt to fall gently. It is finished at the bottom with several layers of the same rich black taffeta. This would give the skirt ample weight to allow it to swing with each step .It is very interesting to watch our model as she walks down the ramp. Absolutely gorgeous!

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Two piece dress.
1870
Calvin United Church, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada

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This outstanding coppertone taffeta 2-piece dress has a neat form-fitting waist-length jacket, with narrow ivory cotton frill at the neckline. This garment dates from 1870.
The jacket closes down the front with hooks and eyes.
The simple long sleeves suit the design of the jacket very nicely.
Three large prominent cloth-covered buttons adorn the front of this garment.
The full coppertone taffeta skirt is floor-length, with an interesting notable bustle.
This dress would be beautiful and eye-catching at any social function during this period.

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Detail of jacket.
1870
Champlain Trail Museum and Pioneer Village, Pembroke, Ontario, Canada

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Detail of coppertone taffeta two-piece dress of previous photo.