Woman’s Wool Dress & Apron Set | Lowicz, Poland

Description

Origin: Poland | Mazowsze region | Lowicz
Era: Early 20th century (circa 1910-1930)
Includes: dress, apron
Condition: good; slight fading to colored stripes; overall wear; missing sequins; some very small moth holes; one larger torn hole in apron; wear and stress at the arm holes of the bodice
suitable for both wear and display
Measurements (with garments laying flat):
Bust: approx. 34″-36″ (17″ between underarms)
Waist: approx. 30″
Skirt & apron length: 25″
Total length: 36″ (bodice can be let out about 2″ more)
Additional Notes: Stunning, matching folk dress and apron set from the Lowicz region of central Poland featuring wonderful floral embroidery along the edges, characteristic of this region. The skirt and apron are made of heavy hand-woven wool done in a rainbow of colors typical of the interwar era when women began to incorporate more purple and green into their color schemes. The skirt is attached to a plain black velvet bodice that would have been covered by an embroidered jacket. The bodice fastens down the front with buttons. The skirt is fully lined with heavy patterned paper to give the skirt the correct shape and volume, as well as to protect the skirt. Given the costume’s age it is in relatively good condition with some wear and expected age-related damages that only detract from it slightly. The apron hole could be inconspicuously patched from the back without much trouble as it is not in a prominent spot. The embroidered velvet bands are in very good condition with only minimal occasional fading and light wear. While the costume is durable and wearable, it might be best suited as a display item given its age and history. A fine example of the regional festive style.