This exquisite 1900 - 1910s white battenburg or princess tape lace dress jacket is of exceptional quality and craftsmanship and is increasingly scare in this condition. The entire piece is made up of handmade tape lace, a unique style of lace-making that was introduced at the end of the 19th century. In particular, Belgium lace incorporated floral and leaf patterns into the intricate designs and it is reputed to be called princess lace because the Belgium Royal Family used it. This type of tape lace is more commonly referred to as battenburg lace in the US. The piece is a beautiful example of such workmanship may have gone over a bridal dress, with a stylish plunging dinner-blazer style collar that can be worn open, or fastened at the neck. The romantic bishop sleeves finish in dramatic 5" cuff details, and there is a matching crochet belt to accompany the piece, 2" wide and with hook fastenings. The jacket falls open from a delicate hook fastening at the front of the waist down to the hem of the skirt, which finishes just below the knee. In excellent antique condition. Pure white with no stains. We have spotted one or two broken brides which of course could be repaired; however they in no way detract from this exceptional item and are only seen on very close inspection. Best suited to US size 2 - 4, UK size 6 - 8. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4in. (163cm) and this jacket was a good fit on her. 

MEASUREMENTS:

BUST - 36 in. (91.44 cm)
WAIST - 26 in. (66.04 cm)
HIP - 34 in. (86.36 cm)
LENGTH - 36 in. (91.44 cm)