BONNET Reproduction 1860 Civil War Victorian Coral Silk Butterflies Handmade

Description

Hand made 1860's style Spoon Bonnet. It is covered with exquisite coral colored 100% silk patterned with white, coral and dark coral
butterflies
in a variety of positions and sizes.
It can be worn with or without a veil.
The interior of the brim is lined with ruched or gathered white 100% cotton. with a narrow row of white lace around the face.
The exterior is not decorated (with the exception of a band of wide light coral  satin ribbon) to show-case the lovely pattern of the silk. Flowers and feathers can be added to match your
outfit
. Typically flowers were added inside the brim to frame the face, feathers were worn on the outside of the bonnet. The bavolet is made of low luster, off-white lace. It is 6 " wide with floral and geometric deigns and a scalloped edge. The ties  are luxurious 2 1/4" wide light coral satin double faced ribbon. The bonnet has as been completely hand stitched, with the exception of the basting stitches of the interior
ruching
.
The brim of the bonnet has a wire inside which can be gently shaped into a taller or rounder shape and well at the heart shaped Marie Stuart shape.
The bonnet is designed to sit toward the back of the head, as shown on the model. One size fit's most women. It measures 28 1/2" around the crown. and is 9" deep from the center of the crown to the back.
The spoon bonnet was introduced in the early 1860's and was one of the most popular women's hats during the Civil War period (1860-65) The 1860 high brim spoon bonnet has a high top that rose straight up from the crown, giving it the shape of a spoon. It was made with short sides which finish at the bottom with a narrow strap where the decorative ribbon ties can be attached to hold the bonnet firmly on the head. The back of the bonnet is cut high to accommodate a decorative bavolet or curtain. The bonnet provided little protection from the sun (hence the necessity of a parasol), but allowed for elaborate decoration inside and outside the tall brim. Examples show ruffle, lace bows, silk flowers and feathers to frame the wearer's face. The spoon bonnet was worn by more prosperous women and young ladies who wanted to wear the "latest fashion."
Please feel free to contact me with any questions, I am a retired Civil War reenactor/sutler and have been making bonnets for almost 40 years.
Thanks for looking and Happy eBaying.