#2686 Under Sleeve & Collar Set  1855-1865  

  United States   

Materials: Antique white cotton net, Point de Gaz needle lace cuffs and collar, blue silk satin ribbon.

Condition: Excellent. There are a couple of  tiny holes in the net sleeves and one larger, 1/4" x 1" hole next to the sleeve seam.

Measurements: Sleeves: L 16"; Arm Opening 17"; Cuff Opening 9". Collar: Inside L 14"; Wd 1"-3.5".

Comments: Under sleeves have been a fashion accessory since the early 1700s. Then called "engeagents" (French), by the 19th c. the term "under sleeves" became acceptable. Because under sleeves were basted into a dress sleeve, they could easily be removed, laundered, ironed, and returned the dress, giving a fresh appearance to the outfit. In the 18th and 19th c. the whole dress, especially if silk, was rarely washed. Fashioned from the elegant and time consuming Point de Gaz needle-lace, this under sleeve and collar set is a rarity.