Dressmaker forms....

have been around since the time of the Egyptian pharaohs. It's documented that when King Tutankhamen's tomb was opened in 1922, they discovered a wooden torso not far from a clothing chest. Dating from 1350 B.C., it may have been the world's first dress form.

During the middle ages, the royalty of Europe had dress forms made with their exact measurements so that dressmakers could make their clothes without bothering them. With the rise of the middle class during the Industrial Revolution, dress forms became affordable and hence more popular. And with the rise of haute couture in Europe, dress forms became an indispensable tool to a fashion house for their rich clientele.

~ from Smithsonian Magazine ~
************************

During more than a few of my many vintage "hunts" I've come across these forms. Most are pretty pricey, some are very old and few are in good shape...not to mention the undeniable smell of must that their materials are harboring. As of yet, there's been only one dress form that's come close to my consideration so the thrill of the hunt continues.