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La Samaritaine has been a part of Parisian history since 1870. By 1890, a change in location and expansion of property transformed it into a large, thriving department store whose design reflected the highly artistic Art Nouveau movement. Almost everything could be found at La Samaritaine—just like this box containing a frilly outfit for a 19–20″ Bebe. The ensemble includes a floral ornament, an opulent silk and lace bonnet, and a colorful parasol to accompany the summer dress and overcoat.

Velvet Antique, Early Evening Gown, in rich, dark chocolate brown, will full skirt, puffed short sleeves, and metallic trim applied to the collarette and above the hem all around.  Circa 1860. The condition of the overall garment is strong, however the velvet has worn off most of the bodice and the upper part of the skirt.  Approx. waist 8″, shoulder width 4 1/2″, waist to hem 11″, shoulder to hem, a bit more than 14″.  Some very old stitched mending in spots.  For approx. 18″ fashion doll.  $395.

Antique Sporty Day Dress.  Circa 1885, this casual dress reminds us of early denim in texture, and of a working garment with its denim blue and white stripes.  It has the look of a two piece dress but the bodice and skirt are attached, and although a casual or work garment, nothing was spared in giving it some style and detail.  Buttons down the front, a rear, double peplum with lace trim and buttons, diagonal ruffles at the hem, long sleeves and “quilted” pockets, with the whole garment having conservative lace trim wherever possible.  For a size 4, or 18″ fashion, the hem goes to the floor.  Approx. shoulders 4 3/4″,  waist 7 1/2″, waist to hem 9 7/8″, shoulder to hem 13 1/2″.  For 18″ fashion doll.  $235.

Brushed cotton, Antique Day Dress for 18″ Fashion, ca 1880.  This is a casual number that has some appealing detail, with a faintly checkered fabric that has a gathered full skirt, pleated vertical panels on the bodice front and back, and a red and white gathered trim at the neckline, cuffs and hem all around. The wide, candy red silk sash around the waist makes a bold statement with a healthy bow in the back,  Approx. shoulders across 4 3/8″, waist 7 1/2″, waist to hem at floor, 10 1/4″, shoulder to hem at floor 14 3/4″.  A bit faded at the bodice and sleeves, but in very good condition.  $195.

Woven Antique Early Dress, enfantine length.  This sporty dress, circa 1860, looks warm and comfortable with its durable woven cotton/wool in sienna brown with cream stripes, sewn on the diagonal on the rounded sleeves, and the applied ruffle around the hem.  At the waist, the skirt is well gathered causing a full silhouette, and there is black cord trim at the collar, down the back to the waist, around the wrists and the hem ruffle.  Very good condition with a few small holes.  Approx. shoulders across 4 1/2″, waist 7 3/4″,waist to hem 9″ and shoulder to hem 13″.  For an approx 18″ fashion doll.  $495.