SYKES Tea Dress, London, ca. 1904

Rare Antique Lace Tea Dress by G. Sykes, London – Museum-Quality Edwardian Fashion

We are thrilled to present a truly exceptional find: an original Edwardian lace tea dress from the prestigious London fashion house G. Sykes, located at 24 Hanover Square W. This rare two-piece ensemble, dating to around 1904, showcases the refined elegance and craftsmanship of early 20th-century British couture. Today, authentic dresses from the Sykes fashion house are virtually extinct outside of museum collections, making this piece a remarkable treasure for collectors and fashion historians.

The dress consists of a bodice and skirt, both crafted from exquisite Bedfordshire Maltese lace, a hallmark of high-end Edwardian design. Beneath the lace lies a luxurious Chinese silk taffeta underskirt, complete with a train and a dust border at the hemline made of delicate machine-made lace. The bodice features cream-colored silk, richly adorned with lace overlays, velvet accents, and crocheted details on the cuffs and bust area—elements that reflect the romantic styling of the period.

A hanging bust and slightly puffed sleeves further authenticate its origin around 1904, capturing the silhouette and aesthetic of the Edwardian tea dress. Remarkably, this gown is in excellent original condition, with the silk underskirt fully intact - a rarity, as such delicate fabrics are often found tattered or deteriorated.

This antique lace dress is nearly museum quality, making it ideal for collectors of historical fashion, curators, or anyone seeking a statement piece of authentic Edwardian clothing. All elements are original; please note that decorative accessories shown are not included.

Bust: ~ 90 cm
Waist: ~ 70 cm
Front Length: ~ 150 cm
Back Lengt: ~ 190 cm