Australian Dress Register

This dress is an important symbol of wedding ceremonies in the Manning Valley in the latter part of the 19th century. The quality of the dress is indicative of the importance placed on the ceremony and the social status of the families concerned.

One piece, ivory lawn dress with satin and lace trim. The dress also has a detachable collar. The dress has six ruffles on the skirt with the first and last trimmed with lace. Two bands of satin and two of lace are attached at waist and hip. Satin bows are located on the left hip, below each elbow and also on the left shoulder. 13 buttons run from the left shoulder to the lower waist. Four similar buttons ornament each sleeve cuff. The dress has long sleeves with two rows of lace at the cuff. The back has a central panel of draped lawn. This panel is integrated into the bodice and then opens up to drape over the lower hip, extending to the base of the dress. The separate collar of lace and satin, creates a jabot at the front. It attaches to the dress with hooks and eyes. The dress has an underskirt of heavy satin. The bodice is very fitted, with darts. These have been let out at some time.