Name: One-of-a-Kind 18th Century Robe Volante - Historical Fantasy Rococo Gown in Silk Taffeta
SKU: 43463
Availability: InStock

Description

Unique Interpretation of 18th Century Fashion

This one-of-a-kind robe volante explores the fascinating historical dialogue between Japanese kimono design and early eighteenth century European fashion.

Long before the iconic robe à la française became widespread, imported Japanese garments inspired European tastes, silhouettes, textiles, and dressing gowns. This piece is not an accurate historical reproduction, it is instead an artistic interpretation celebrating those cultural connections through an original design.

I created it as as a personal project and I have worn it at Venice Carnevale, this gown combines eighteenth century aesthetics with hand-painted details and a distinctive color palette reminiscent of Venetian lagoon waters. The heron was chosen both for its traditional symbolism of fidelity and for its connection to the landscape around Venice, where these birds are a familiar sight in the countryside as well as in Japan.

As this is a unique handmade artwork, I will not reproduce it.

Materials and Construction

Aqua shot red silk blend taffeta with shifting color effects
Hand-painted heron motifs
Padded hem
Matching stomacher with tassel decoration

Size and Fit

I made this robe volante for an eighteenth century silhouette and you must wear it over proper 18th century stays.

Approximate measurements it was made for:

Natural waist of original wearer: 70 cm (27.5 in)
Bust over stays: approximately 100 cm (39.4 in)
Length from shoulder to hem: 144 cm (56.7 in)

The gown is relatively adjustable thanks to its construction and front closure system. The shoulder area is the least adjustable portion. This makes it an ideal piece to be used for example by photographers, due to size flexibility.

For full ankle coverage, it is best suited to wearers up to approximately:

165 cm (5 ft 5 in)

This garment requires:

A pair of eighteenth century stays (not included)
Pinning the front closure
Pinning the stomacher into place

Due to this, I highly recommend some familiarity with historical dressing methods.

Included

Robe volante gown
Matching stomacher

Not included:

Stays
Petticoat
Accessories
Shoes

Why This Piece Is Available

As a costume maker and historical clothing enthusiast, I continually create new garments. While this robe remains one of my favorite creations, opportunities to wear it are rare when I have newer piece I need to showcase.

Therefore, rather than remaining stored away, it deserves to become part of another collection, photoshoot wardrobe, historical fashion gathering, or costume enthusiast’s dream closet.