A truly extraordinary piece — an Edwardian lace bolero (c. 1900–1910) that has been painstakingly restored and reworked by the maker into its current bolero silhouette. The lace itself is of exceptional quality: a dense, all-over floral and botanical pattern worked in fine white cotton, with a scalloped hem and V-neckline that frame the piece beautifully. The three-quarter sleeves with scalloped cuffs complete the look with characteristic Edwardian elegance.
This piece required an extraordinary amount of restoration work. Edwardian lace of this quality is among the most fragile of all antique textiles — each thread irreplaceable, each repair requiring patience, skill, and an intimate knowledge of the original construction. The decision to rework it into a bolero was a considered one, giving new life and wearability to a piece that might otherwise have been unwearable.
The result is something that exists nowhere else in the world: a wearable work of art that carries over a century of history and the restorer's own considerable craft.
- Era: Edwardian, c. 1900–1910
- Fabric: Extremely fine white cotton lace
- Details: All-over floral and botanical lace pattern, V-neckline, three-quarter sleeves, scalloped hem and cuffs, bolero length
- Reworked: Original garment extensively restored and reworked into bolero silhouette by the maker
- Condition: Extensively restored; extremely delicate — handle with care
- Quantity: One of a kind — only 1 available
How to style it
- Over a silk slip: The most natural pairing — let the lace do the talking over a simple silk or satin slip dress
- For a wedding: An incomparable bridal cover-up — nothing made today comes close
- Over a corset or bustier: For an editorial or evening look with real drama
- With high-waisted trousers: A surprisingly modern combination that highlights the bolero's cropped silhouette
For the serious collector, the discerning bride, or anyone who understands that true luxury is always handmade, always irreplaceable, and always one of a kind.