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40s? or 50s? Evening Gown and Is It Worth Saving?

Discussion in 'PUBLIC Vintage Fashion - Ask Questions Get Answers' started by vintageclothes-line, Apr 3, 2004.

  1. Warning..lots of pics. Actually the material is quite sturdy but there are a few tears in the chiffon which I think can be mended with tiny stitches. There is a storage stain at hem in some places which I think could be soaked out.<br><br><center><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon2.jpg><br><br>The pleated look over the neckline is chiffon, too.<br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon3.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon4.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon5.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon6.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon7.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon8.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon9.jpg><br><br><img src=http://image.inkfrog.com/pix/magnolia3/40spinkchiffon10.jpg></center><br><br>So what do you think? A date, please, and is it worth it to list?<p>TIA, Linda
     
  2. dancingdresses

    dancingdresses Registered Guest

    Hi Linda-

    I'm no expert, but the first thing I thought, on the first pic was "That looks a lot like the bridemaid's dresses I've seen in post-war photos." (The general line of the dress. very small sleeves, the peplum-like overlay on the skirt, underarm zipper, etc)

    Then, the details - shelf bust, the chiffon fabric, that draped shawl treatment at the back neck, etc. - started looking 50's.

    So - maybe early-mid 50's?

    But wait for the experts to show up. :)

    If the small holes are near the hemline and might disappear if shortened, mention that.
    I've salvaged neat things in the past by stitching an applique over the hole or beading that area. Is that logical to suggest, depending on where the holes are?
    Very cute.
    C
     
  3. worth-a-peek

    worth-a-peek Alumni

    I think PINK:)
    Can't help with particulars but if they need tiny stitches I would stitch them and mention it And if the storage stain is just on the chiffon I would try to work on that area as well.
    Just makes it less daunting to the bidder.
    If it were a victorian piece I'd be singing a different tune as I'd probably leave repairs to a professional.

    I had listed a vintage airline shirt and then washed it one more time. After washing there were a couple of small areas along seams that had opened.
    So i stitched those and reinforced a couple of others and sent it on it's way with a note explaining what happened as it was not in the listing.
    Then I held my breath:)
    The bidder (a pilot) emailed me when he got back from a trip and was thrilled and very happy about my repair work. He said he can sew a button on but that was the extent of his sewing skills.

    Sorry a bit OT, I get carried away sometime;)
    Karen
     
  4. Thanks, guys.<p>Shelf bust..was wondering what to call that. Okay, 50s it is. The storage stain is on the lining. Forgot to mention that the lining hangs down lower than the chiffon in some spots, so it could be shortened and probably remove these storage spots.<p>Looks like I need to get my needle and thread out and see how it works out. Some of small tears or in the middle of the skirt but I think if I match the material with thread and take tiny stitches, it should be fine.<p>I love this design and the bodice treatment really enhances the bustline.<p>Well, this probably won't be listed for a little while until I have time to mend.<p>Will give an update later.<p>Thanks again. Linda
     

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