Antique Wire Hoop Skirt, 1870s

This rare antique crinoline, dating to the 1870s, is a beautifully preserved example of American Victorian foundation wear, designed to support the fashionable full-skirted silhouette of the era. Featuring a distinctive flat “belly” front, the crinoline’s middle band was likely intended to be hung from a corset or corset cover, allowing for a secure and discreet fit beneath structured garments.

The steel hoops, placed only in the lower third of the crinoline, create a graceful bell shape while maintaining ease of movement. The shape is both beautiful and rare, reflecting the transitional styles of the post-Civil War period. The crinoline is in good condition, with some rusty spots on the steel, a missing buckle, and light staining consistent with age and use. Please note: decorative items shown in some images are not included.

Length: approx. 75 cm

This is an exceptional find for collectors of Victorian underpinnings, 19th-century fashion history, or museum-quality costume accessories, offering a glimpse into the engineering and elegance of 1870s American dressmaking.