1919 Wedding Dress

Date: 1919 - Material: Silk - Accession: 2001.191.9.046

The wedding dress worn by Elsie Winneburg at her wedding to Frederick C. Dietz on March 31, 1919 in Pennsylvania brings together a number of different design elements popular in the early 20th century.

The couched symmetrical, yet free form design, the draping of the skirt, and the narrow 25 inch hemline recall earlier exotic designs introduced by Paul Poiret. Unlike the hobble skirts he made popular in 1914, this skirt has some width at the waistline making it a barrel skirt, a popular form in 1919. The draping on the skirt sides are similar to Greek chitons. The points on the sleeves give the dress a medieval look.

Donated to the University of Illinois Bevier Historic Costume Collection by Mrs. Dietz. Property transfer to the Illinois State Museum, 2001.