1910

Margaret Leet Beckman, a member of the well-known Baker family of Altoona, Pennsylvania might have worn a gown like this for her wedding in 1910. Her actual attire is unknown, but a woman of her status would have contracted with a dressmaker to construct the gown. City directories of the time list many women as dressmakers. Labels sewn into several gowns in the collection of the Blair County Historical Society, attest to their skill. This gown is in the princess style in shades of white, with three different laces. The stand collar is edged in lace. The side S-curve is evident in the bib of lace in the front and a small bustle in the back. The corset at this time pushed the woman’s bosom out in front and derriere out in the back. Veil is attached to a comb in her upswept hair. The full length sleeves are tiered corded and lace fabric.

Click photo for detailed view.