This beautiful 1915 tea dress was sold on eBay by USVainen, a seller (sadly, retired) whose knowledge of vintage fashion was astounding and whose descriptions were delightful. This seller graciously agreed to let me share her images and words on my site, and I think you'll enjoy them as much as I did!

What a wonderful color! This is an original linen afternoon suit circa 1913-1915. Note all of the marvelous details, including the double peplum, the crisp white linen collar and cuffs and the tailored skirt. This is a "transition" fashion--right between the era of the slim skirt (1911-1913) and the flounced waistline (1914-1917). It looks perfect for an afternoon stroll or a visit with friends at a lovely tearoom in the city. (From the collection of Elizabeth M. Brick)

Here is a circa 1914 evening gown, which is on display at the Museum of the City of New York. Rhinestone embroidered tulle over pale lavender satin, ice-blue chiffon tunic edged with rhinestones and satin glass bead fringe by the eminent designer, Frederick Worth. The gown was originally worn by Mrs. William Storrs Wells.

This is a marvelous original 1913 tea gown or afternoon dress. My model posed in it for me while we were having tea in the Ritz-Carlton's sumptuous tea room! This dress features the overskirts that became so popular in the early 'teens and has wonderful sleeves with cuffs matching the collar. Flowered pink silk was used for the entire dress, and it is impossible to describe its elegant look and feel. The details on this piece are fabulous, from the triangular panels in the bodice front and back to the piping trimming all the edges to the hand-tied French knots that decorate the sleeves.

This stunning 1913 wedding gown was sold on eBay by USVainen, a seller (sadly, retired now) whose knowledge of vintage fashion was astounding and whose descriptions were delightful. This seller graciously agreed to let me share her images and words on my site, and I think you'll enjoy them as much as I did! Well worth the reading.

These are extant Titanic Era garments. I costumed a Titanic documentary, titled "Women and Children First," in April of 1998. Here are two of the extras used in the filming (the one on the left is yours truly, complete with vintage glasses!). The dress on the right is straight out of a 1912 ladies' catalog and features beautiful draping and inset details. My outfit on the left was made up of a walking skirt and fantastic jacket with braided trimming.

This is an original ca. 1912 afternoon dress from my collection. It was probably a deep lavender originally, but it has faded to a muted violet. I love the lace detailing. Note the raised waistline, which was fashionable in 1911-1912.

Here is a lovely example of a Titanic-era tea gown. Note all the trimming on the bodice and the skirt draping. The fabric is a wonderful, heavy silk with a beautiful drape to it. Simply fantastic.