Hunting for late 1800s early 1900s ladies clothes resource (Some photos at FFJ)

I have some items that I will be taking pictures of within the next week.

Can anyone tell me about what to expect in condition of these types of items.

I have looked at a few and they definitely show their age.

Any suggested web sites would also be deeply appreciated.

Thanks will update sooooon.

Update Victorian Edwardian

Maggie (DeniseBrain)

You are such a sweetie thanks again for your help!!!

Question about condition of 1850-1910 items. I am afraid to touch these items in the fear of them falling apart. There is not a specialist in my area that handles antique fabrics.

Does condition (tears, stains, ect.) really lower the value of the items? I strongly believe a seamstress or more experienced vintage "pro" could take these and run with them.

My preference is cleaning and repairing with the utmost dignity to the fabric. Would love some thoughts on repairing and or cleaning these earlier jewels.

I have not taken pictures yet (sorry) I am waiting for a local museum to take a look for an opinion. They will be posted on my site in about a week for viewing. My client has the best set aside.
www.favoriteforgottenjeans.com

P.S. I know there was a forum on this topic of antique clothing, anyone have an idea where that is?

Condition definitely lowers price. Tha's just the way it is. There are quite a few antique items in poor condition and not many in great shape, and collectors are particular.

Most stains will simply not come out of silk. And drycleaning is not an option as it will destroy the fibers.

Shattering and dry rot are also hopeless.

That leaves washing, which can be done on some cottons and linens and even some silks, but must be judged on a case by case basis.

Popped or picked apart seams should be resewn in the manner they were sewn originally- hand or machine. And loose trims can be resewn. It's best not to replace missing trims.

I will be honest - this older things are not for the novice when it comes to repair and cleaning, and if you are not sure what to do, it is best to leave them alone. I have seen more damage done by well intentioned menders than I want to talk about.

Pictures would help alot!

Hollis

Thanks Hollis

I have posted a few on my site under
FFJ News

You will have to select that tab and it should take you there. I apologize ahead of time. My form is too large, so the items are displayed on a table flat.

These are a few of the pieces. There condition varies to stains and need for repair. The other pieces (3 mid size bins are definite need specialized cleaning and repair). The others, I have not seen yet. Thanks again

I will post again when the jewelry and handbags come. Mostly earlier pieces.

FFJ News

Okay, you can't dryclean any of it.

There may be some handwashables. These would be the pieces that are all one fabric and color without any velvet on them. The coats - nope.

Having said that, here's the not so good news.

The best prices in this era are for dresses and matching bodices and skirt sets. Coats can do alright, and those look like they might be interesting if the condition is okay.

But I see alot of single skirts and bodices, and white lingerie dresses, which just do not bring in very good money unless they are large, wearable sizes, liek modern size 10 and up. And if the condition is not good, that's another strike against them. The good thing is you can handwash the white cotton.

The reason I say this is don't invest too much time or money in that type piece. You may not get your investment back. Check ebay and search for similar items and see what really sold and for how much to give you an idea of what you may want to invest in terms of time and money.

Hollis

Hollis,
Thanks again!!!

Do you wash the cottons in warm water due to age of the cotton? Or should it be cool? (I think you did a workshop on this last year or the beginning of the year?)

Do you have any suggestions on a cleaning solution that should be used?

I have a few other questions. I hope not to overwhelm you and deeply appreciate your time. If and when you can answer, I will be genuinely touched.

I have looked at Ebay and the prices have been super low and most have some type of damage/condition. There are a few pieces at higher price points with stated condition as good. I simply don't post things anymore unless I really feel passionate that I can sell it for a client at a reasonable price. I have decided to check with a couple of local consignment shops that carry vintage and some antique pieces for my client. I honestly think that seeing an item can increase the asking price. I have over paid numerous times just because it was love at first sight.

I could use some thoughts about displaying antique clothing in a consignment store. I would imagine there would be special considerations (hanging on padded hangers, avoiding sunlight, etc.)

Would you sell a skirt without the top? The first piece is badly stained on FFJ News site under arm area. The skirt needs a minor repair but is gorgeous viewing up close.

Many of the items are damaged, my hunch is that they were one used for reinactments due to some evidence (need for cleaning).

Can they be salvaged for fabric to make doll clothes, or what do you do with them at that point? The thought of tossing them makes me really sad.

My client has several and the bulk of the in really good condition are the things that she does not want to part with. I need to give her some really good advice on storing them. I am truly new to the world of vintage at this point but absolutely do this for the passion and love of the clothes, plus I am learning so much. I have contacted my local museum and would love any other input that you might have or others.:help:

Again, thank you so much for your feedback and mostly your time.
Warmest regards,
Denise

My email address at FFJDenise Antique Clothing 101

I found the workshop! It was a while ago. I think most of your questions have answers in there.

http://www.vintagefashionguild.org/forums/viewthread.php?tid=41155

I will tell you that badly stained armpits just don't sell well. If condition is too bad, put things in lots and sell 'as is' for study or projects. Ebay is good for this.

Hollis

Hollis,
Have you ever seen Rayon in a garment prior to the 1930s? I was wondering if these coats where actually linen and or silk work down on some areas.

I am headed to that post. Thanks again for everything!!!
Denise