RARE Victorian-Edwardian Split Skirt Bicycle Pant Skirt (c. 1890s-1900s)

$925.00

Step into timeless elegance with this authentic vintage convertible skirt-pants, a rare treasure from a bygone era. Meticulously tailored and beautifully preserved, this garment is a statement in sophisticated craftsmanship and ingenious design. It effortlessly transforms from an elegant high-waisted skirt into wide-leg culottes with a clever side-button configuration, offering both drama and functionality. Ideal for collectors, stylists, or anyone who loves wearable history, this piece brings vintage couture into the modern day with striking effect.

Features:

  • Authentic vintage construction — likely late 1800s or early 1900-10s, exceptionally rare

  • Convertible design — transitions from long skirt to wide-leg culottes, however, the skirt panel does not detach like later styles do, hence the earlier circa dating

  • Double row of large buttons — functional and sculptural, running diagonally across the front

  • High waist cut — flatters the silhouette and elongates the leg

  • Rich, heavyweight wool or wool-blend fabric — structured yet fluid in movement

  • Expert tailoring — dramatic drape and crisp lines

  • Versatile styling — pairs beautifully with sheers, silks, or tailored separates

Garment Measurements:

  • Waist: 28 inches

  • Hips: 44+ inches

  • Inseam: 21 inches

  • Outseam: 38 inches

Notes:

  • Nearly mint condition, the only exception is one moth nibble at the back waistline.

History

Split skirts, also known as bifurcated skirts, were a late Victorian and Edwardian fashion innovation that allowed women more freedom of movement, particularly for activities like cycling. The split skirt was a step towards more practical and comfortable clothing for women, challenging the Victorian era's restrictive fashions. These skirts, designed with hidden trouser legs, aimed to provide the modesty of a skirt while offering the practicality of pants.

Step into timeless elegance with this authentic vintage convertible skirt-pants, a rare treasure from a bygone era. Meticulously tailored and beautifully preserved, this garment is a statement in sophisticated craftsmanship and ingenious design. It effortlessly transforms from an elegant high-waisted skirt into wide-leg culottes with a clever side-button configuration, offering both drama and functionality. Ideal for collectors, stylists, or anyone who loves wearable history, this piece brings vintage couture into the modern day with striking effect.

Features:

  • Authentic vintage construction — likely late 1800s or early 1900-10s, exceptionally rare

  • Convertible design — transitions from long skirt to wide-leg culottes, however, the skirt panel does not detach like later styles do, hence the earlier circa dating

  • Double row of large buttons — functional and sculptural, running diagonally across the front

  • High waist cut — flatters the silhouette and elongates the leg

  • Rich, heavyweight wool or wool-blend fabric — structured yet fluid in movement

  • Expert tailoring — dramatic drape and crisp lines

  • Versatile styling — pairs beautifully with sheers, silks, or tailored separates

Garment Measurements:

  • Waist: 28 inches

  • Hips: 44+ inches

  • Inseam: 21 inches

  • Outseam: 38 inches

Notes:

  • Nearly mint condition, the only exception is one moth nibble at the back waistline.

History

Split skirts, also known as bifurcated skirts, were a late Victorian and Edwardian fashion innovation that allowed women more freedom of movement, particularly for activities like cycling. The split skirt was a step towards more practical and comfortable clothing for women, challenging the Victorian era's restrictive fashions. These skirts, designed with hidden trouser legs, aimed to provide the modesty of a skirt while offering the practicality of pants.