Antique 1890s John Wanamaker Black Wool and 50 similar items

Beautiful antique Victorian skirt, circa 1890s, in fine black wool with decorative applique trim (missing some original button details, which could be restored). The silhouette is fitted at the waist with a full-length, floor-sweeping drape ? quintessential late Victorian styling that lends itself perfectly to Gothic, steampunk, or historical costuming. Closures include a sturdy hook-and-eye waistband with heavy ribbon reinforcement, plus snaps at the back. Condition Extra good antique condition. Only a small area of torn holes near the back hem (see photos), easily repairable. Strong fabric, wearable with care. Provenance Note This skirt was retailed by John Wanamaker, the famed Philadelphia department store pioneer (opened 1876). Wanamaker was one of the first American department stores to rival Parisian fashion houses, offering finely made European-inspired garments. Surviving 19th-century pieces with his label are scarce and collectible. Style Aesthetics ? Gothic Victorian drama ? Steampunk costuming staple ? Antique sustainable fashion Styling Tips Wear with a lace blouse and corset belt for a dramatic Gothic revival look. Ideal base for steampunk costuming ? add boots, hat, and bustle accents. Display as a museum or collector?s piece in historical fashion collections. Measurements (laid flat) Waist: 30" Length: 41" Approx. Modern Size Best fits a US women?s S/M (waist 29?30"). Fit Guide Structured waist; best suited for hourglass or corseted styling. Works for heights 5?5??5?8? to graze the floor. Fabric / Materials Fine wool with decorative applique trim, reinforced ribbon waist, metal hook/eye and snaps. Sustainability Note Sustainably vintage ? 19th-century wool garment, not fast fashion. Costuming CTA Costuming a film, theater, or creative project? Contact Miss Kitty ? we have extensive vintage inventory not yet listed and can offer excellent bulk/volume discounts for productions. Thanks for Shopping at The Cats Pajamas! PLEASE ASK Miss Kitty any QUESTIONS BEFORE PURCHASING! Seriously, fire away! We love to chat and want to make sure you're doing a happy dance when your goodies arrive! RETURN POLICY: Our treasures are sold as final sale (no take-backsies!), but your satisfaction is our jam! We get it ? photos can only tell half the story, so don't be shy about those questions! CONDITION: All our finds are sold as-is, straight from a clean, smoke-free zone. Unless we've called out a specific "quirk," these beauties are flawless and ready to shine! SHIPPING: We're on it! Standard 2-day handling, or if you're in a hurry, zip, zap, zoom with 1-day express via UPS or FedEx! INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING: Hey globetrotters! Just a friendly heads-up: you're on the hook for any import taxes or customs fees. We play by the rules and give customs the full scoop, so no surprises there!