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?

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 through dirt or puddles.

In social settings, skirt lifters provided a discreet way for women to manage their voluminous dresses, ensuring their movements remained graceful. Whether navigating a crowded room