Antique ROUFF Paris Green Velvet Evening Dress – Victorian Couture ca. 1898

This antique green velvet evening dress by Rouff Couture, crafted in Paris around 1898, is a stunning example of late Victorian fashion and French haute couture. The two-piece ensemble features an off-the-shoulder bodice with elegant cape sleeves, adorned with lace flounces along the shoulders and sleeve hems. At the center front, intricate appliqué work showcases lace, pearls, and glass bead embellishments, adding exquisite detail and texture.

The matching velvet skirt mirrors the decorative appliqué near the hem and flows into a long train at the back, enhancing the gown’s dramatic silhouette. A satin tie front on the bodice is embroidered with “Rouff / Blvd Haussmann Paris,” marking its prestigious origin in one of Paris’s most renowned fashion houses.

Measurements include an approximate bust of 31 ¾ inches (ca. 97 cm), waist of 29 inches (ca. 75 cm), and a skirt length of 41 inches from waist to front hem (ca. 102 cm). Total front length: 56 inches (ca. 140 cm). Back length, incl. train: 86 inches (ca. 215 cm..

The dress is in good condition for its age, with some repairs and retrofitting noted. The lace appliqué on the back requires minor restoration, but the overall exterior appearance remains impressive. The hem area has slightly darkened and shows minor soiling. In reality, the stains are much more subtle than they appear in the photos. The silk satin lining is mostly shredded.

This rare Rouff antique evening gown is a true collector’s piece, ideal for enthusiasts of historical couture, Victorian evening wear, or museum-quality fashion artifacts.

Maison Rouff

Maison Rouff was a distinguished Parisian couture house active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, celebrated for its refined and richly ornamented garments. Known for its elegant daywear and opulent evening dresses, Rouff’s creations often featured luxurious fabrics such as velvet and silk, enhanced with lace, beading, and intricate appliqué. The house catered to a sophisticated clientele and was considered one of the leading fashion establishments of its time, alongside names like Paquin, Doucet, and Beer.

Around 1900, Rouff’s designs were prominently featured in fashion publications and lithographs that showcased the latest Parisian styles. These illustrations, now preserved in museum collections such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, offer a glimpse into the house’s aesthetic: graceful silhouettes, layered textures, and a delicate balance between structure and ornamentation.