Antique Edwardian Art Nouveau Soutache Silk Net Blouse Top c. 1908-1914 Ivory High Collar Museum Deaccession

Beautiful antique Edwardian blouse dating to approximately 1908–1914, featuring an elegant high stand collar, fitted long sleeves, and intricate ivory soutache braid applied over fine net, which appears to be silk. The flowing stylized floral and foliate motifs are strongly characteristic of Art Nouveau, making this an exceptional example of early 20th-century decorative textile work.

The blouse has a fitted silhouette with a high neck and back hook-and-eye closures, and would originally have been worn over a silk camisole or lightweight bodice for evening or formal wear. The dramatic raised soutache embroidery remains remarkably well preserved and creates a beautiful dimensional effect across the delicate net ground.

The original institutional inventory tag remains attached to the garment and is pictured in the listing photos.

A beautiful and highly unusual piece for collectors of Edwardian fashion, Belle Époque clothing, Titanic-era costume, Art Nouveau textiles, antique lace, or museum-deaccessioned garments.

Condition:

Good overall antique condition. The fine/delicate net ground displays minor age toning and a number of scattered small breaks, most notably around the back waistline, consistent with a garment over 110 years old. There are also some areas of separation/fraying to the net and edges, as pictured.

The applied soutache embroidery is exceptionally well preserved with minimal losses. Original sleeve finishes remain intact. Back hook-and-eye closures remain present, along with the original buttons/closures. Museum inventory tag remains sewn into the back collar.

Overall presents absolutely beautifully, however, please note that this is a very old and delicate textile and should be handled with appropriate care. Please review all photos carefully.

Fit: Approximately a modern XS–petite Small, depending on desired fit. Pictured on a mannequin form measuring approximately 33” bust / 25” waist / approx. 13” around the base of the neck, with the narrowest part of the neck measuring approx. 12”. The collar fits snugly around the neck of the form, so the neck opening is a limiting size factor for this blouse.****

Measurements (approx./taken flat):

Shoulder to shoulder: 14.5”

Pit to pit: 17”

Length: approx. 17.75”