c1907 Hilda

Hilda wore this evening gown of two layers of embellished fine net over oyster silk satin.

The bodice has a slightly rounded ‘V’ neck with elbow length sleeves. A band from the neckline continues obliquely across the bodice meeting the waist at the side, at the same point where the crossed over edges of the skirt slightly overlap.

The skirt is longer at the back and upswept, overlapping at the side of the waist. The edges of the neckline, sleeves, and hemline are decorated with bands of silk embroidery and flowers which are slightly padded in the centres to add dimension, gold coloured and bugle beads and seed beads.

Embroidery of metallic thread in leaf design complements the silk embroidered flowers with pearl centres and outlines of bugle beads. The hem edge is scalloped and patterned with more metallic thread embroidery and beading. The gown is finished with a plain coloured silk belt with asymmetrical pleating.

 

Hilda Henning married Gerald Dampney in 1906. This gown came from Paris and was given to Hilda by her husband, on the birth of their first child. A much more delightful gift than a bunch of flowers!  Hilda was the only daughter of Emily and Biddulph Henning, and a niece of Rachel Henning.