Brass skirt lifter
Name/Title
Brass skirt lifterEntry/Object ID
2025.1.179Description
A solid brass skirt lifter with a pair of 'tongs' to hold the skirt and a ring to attach, with cord/ribbon to the waist or belt. Also known as skirt grip, dress suspender, hem-holder or page or porte-jupe. Sometimes some of the heavier lifters were used to hold down the fabrics to maintain modesty when playing sports for instance.Context
In 19th Century the layers of skirts could weigh up to 6 kgs and holding them up and showing ankles was viewed as unacceptable. The skirt lifter was first sold in 1846 and was immediately a success but faded from popularity once crinolines were fashionable.Category
Domestic, Clothing