Croquet Dress, ca. 1888

We present here an absolute rarity. A croquet dress, as this was the name given to this type of dress in fashion magazines. The dress and its accessories are more than just a fashion item; they are a window into a bygone era when leisure activities such as croquet were not just sports, but also social events. Women dressed for such occasions in elaborate gowns that expressed not only their status but also their taste and personality. Croquet was particularly popular in the 19th century and was one of the typical pastimes of the middle classes. The antique dress is a two-piece consisting of a top and skirt. Both are made of striped/checked silk.Peach, brown and blue are the dominant colors, which appear in shades.Blue silk velvet on the collar and cuffs give the dress an additional color accent.On the right side of the dress, a blue bow draws the attention of onlookers or admirers to the young woman hitting a ball.The top fastens at the front with round buttons. Long sleeves finished with a lace border. The skirt has the typical shape of dresses from the bustle period. Integrated underskirt. The dress is in excellent condition. Tiny stains, very minor signs of wear, discoloration on the lace cuffs, slight wear to the velvet and missing hooks and eyelets at the waist of the skirt are not significant. The blue velvet hood, adorned with a brown feather, also adds a graceful touch to the ensemble. It not only completes the outfit, but also protects the wearer from the sun and at the same time underlines the fashionable sophistication of the time. The wooden box with the 10 croquet rackets tells an equally fascinating story. Although the colors of the rackets have faded and the balls and goals are missing, the set remains a testament to days gone by.The paper label on the inside cover, showing the ladies playing, gives a vivid impression of how croquet was played and enjoyed in that era.The term “legally protected”, also printed on the label, has been used in Germany since 1876. Overall, this set of dress, hood and croquet rackets offers an impressive insight into 19th century culture and society.It reminds us how leisure activities and fashion went hand in hand and how people of the past spent their time in style and elegance. 

Dress:
Waist: ~ 50 cm
Chest: ~ 73 cm
Length: ~ 122 cm

Box:
Dimensions: ~ 95 x 28 x 18 cm