Antique Edwardian Walking Dress, America, ca. 1906

The Edwardian walking dress, popular in America around 1906, was a staple of refined daytime fashion for women navigating public life with elegance and practicality. Designed for strolls, shopping, or social visits, the walking dress balanced structure and style, allowing women to move freely while maintaining the polished silhouette expected in the early 20th century. Unlike the more elaborate evening gowns or lingerie dresses of the era, walking dresses were tailored, modest, and often made from breathable fabrics like linen, making them ideal for outdoor wear.

This particular 1906 American walking dress is a stunning example of Edwardian fashion, composed of three distinct elements: a blouse insert, a jacket, and a skirt. The jacket and skirt are crafted from crisp white linen, adorned with intricate soutache appliqué—a decorative braid technique that adds texture and visual interest to the garment. These embellishments reflect the attention to detail typical of Edwardian tailoring, where even everyday attire was elevated through craftsmanship.

The blouse insert features long sleeves and is richly decorated with Irish lace at the cuffs, chest, and high standing collar, adding a romantic and feminine touch to the otherwise structured ensemble. The blouse is cleverly designed to be worn beneath the skirt and is fastened at the back with hooks and eyes, a common closure method in early 20th century women's clothing.

In good to very good condition, with only subtle signs of wear, this dress is ideal for collectors of vintage Edwardian garments, historical costume designers, or anyone passionate about antique American fashion. It offers a rare glimpse into the daily elegance of women in 1906, where even a walk through town was an opportunity to express grace and style.

Length Jacket: ~  85 cm
Bust Jacket: ~ 85 cm
Waist Jacket:  ~78 cm
Waist Skirt: ~ 60 cm
Length Skirt: ~ 104 cm