Antique Edwardian Lace Bertha Collar | Applied Tape & Needle Run Net

Description and Details

This exquisite antique Edwardian Bertha collar is a beautiful example of early 20th century handwork in lace and net. A Bertha collar is a wide, flat neckline piece worn over the shoulders on dresses of the Edwardian period, typically around 1900-1910, and this one exemplifies the fine needlework of the era.

The collar is constructed with applied tape lace, where narrow tape lace motifs are arranged and hand-stitched onto a net ground to create airy, elegant patterning. The net background is defined as needle run net, a form of hand-crafted openwork where threads are withdrawn and the remaining threads bundled and stitched to form a stable, lace-like mesh. Combined, these techniques produce a lightweight but visually rich textile that was a popular decorative detail on high-end garments and formal attire of the period.

The piece is suitable for historical costume use, museum and display contexts, heritage sewing, and study by textile students or lace enthusiasts. Its hand-stitched construction gives insight into Edwardian techniques that are rare today, and its aesthetic resonates with vintage and classic fashion sensibilities.

Materials Details: Cotton, Applied Tape Lace and Needle Run Net; Hand-Stitched.