The clip that saved dresses

In the 19th century, magnificent dresses and skirts were dragged behind women on the muddy streets of London, Paris, and Europe.

A small, sophisticated accessory was invented to prevent this: the  Skirt Lifter

This was a clip made of metal, iron, brass, or silver, depending on the lady's status and financial means. This accessory had a mechanism that attached via a chain or ribbon to a belt, thus allowing for comfortable walking on rainy days, participation in sports like horseback riding, cricket, and more, climbing stairs, and more.

The clip soon evolved from a practical function into a fashion item. Models of clips were decorated with flowers, butterflies, hearts, and a variety of delicate and romantic ornaments, as was fitting for the period. The clip became a must-have accessory that was part of the feminine chatelaine of noblewomen, combining utility and fashionable style.

(see blog about the chatelaine)

Today, these clips are rare and sought-after collectibles. An accessory through which we learn about the social and daily reality of the Victorian woman – on one hand, beauty and style, and on the other, innovation and practicality.