Found in a box of old sewing stuff at a garage sale. It looks like small metal tongs with padded discs at the end and a loop for a chain. What on earth is this thing used for?

of a woman’s skirt, keeping it clean and dry. It was particularly useful during the 19th century when long skirts were the norm, and streets were often muddy and unpaved. By lifting the skirt, women could navigate their environments without soiling their garments.

Beyond its practical purpose, the skirt lifter also allowed women to showcase their shoes and ankles—considered daring and fashionable at the time. This dual functionality made it a popular accessory among women who desired both practicality and a touch of fashion-forward thinking.

Victorian women utilized skirt lifters as part of their daily attire, especially when venturing outdoors. The device would be attached to the lower hem of the skirt and then hooked onto a belt or chatelaine, effectively lifting the skirt several inches off the ground. This arrangement allowed women to walk comfortably without dragging their skirts