This delicate silk bodice is part of a wedding dress ensemble worn by Fredrica Peterson at her marriage to Albert Linnell on Jan. 21, 1903, location unknown. This pigeon pout or pigeon breast style was fashionable from 1900 to 1910 (the Edwardian era). It was supported by similarly shaped undergarments. The wedding ensemble consists of a chemise, pantalettes, bodice, skirt, belt, extra silk and white leather pumps. This bodice features lace appliques, pleating, oversleeves, hook and eye closures. The silk is shattering due to it being weighted silk. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, silk was sold by weight. The heavier the silk, the better the price. Fabric mills would add metallic salts like lead, iron or tin to the thread to make it heavier. Unfortunately, this also destroys the silk over time causing it to split. This blouse is so delicate that it is not removed from its box.
Donated by Mona Sinkey of Sioux Falls in 1998.