Advice for re-homing inherited clothing collection

D

Django

Registered Guest
Help! I am in a quandary! My aunt recently died, and -- out of 17 nieces and nephews -- she specifically chose me (a 60-year-old man) to become the caretaker of a collection of women's clothing that she had accumulated in her 87 years. Now, I have no specific knowledge or interest in these things, although I do appreciate that some are beautiful and/or "historic." I didn't even know she had this collection. So, why did she choose me? I think it was because she realized that, of her heirs, only I could be expected to recognize that the collection might be meaningful to someone. But how do I find that person/those persons? I am not looking to sell these things, necessarily; I just feel a responsibility to find a good home for things my aunt loved.

The collection includes hats, gloves (including lace and evening), handbags, purses, clutches, shoes (including a pair of high-button boots), a swimsuit, skirts, a hooded satin cape or poncho, coats and jackets, dresses, suits, many lace and embroidered collars, etc. As far as quality goes, one suit has a Bonwit Teller label. Others have labels I don't recognize or no label at all. I don't think anything here would be considered "high fashion." I know that some of these clothes were owned by her aunt, so I am guessing that the pieces range from turn of the century into the early 1950's. Most of these thing are in very good to excellent condition, in my opinion. Some do need small repairs.

Any advice on re-homing this collection would be greatly appreciated. BTW, I and the clothing are in Washington, DC.
 
You might want to start with any local fashion collections. While they may not be interested in a donation, they could help assess what you have and might suggest venues.
 
Hello,

Your aunt must have thought a great deal of you, to leave you her treasured collection of fashion garments and accessories.

I am not sure what Hollis is referring to by "local fashion collections" or how you might find those. Perhaps she is referring to Historical Societies in your area, although most do not generally have people on staff who are very experienced in assessing age or have knowledge to determine value on fashion items. But it might be a good place to start. And you live in a metro area so that is a plus.

What I can suggest is that you get several opinions on what you have, before making any decisions about it. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable person, and get at least 2 appraisals or opinions before parting with any of it.

Some vintage garments or accessories can be desirable even if they do not have a label. Some antique items can be sought after by collectors even if they have damage or flaws. There are a lot of factors to consider.

As far as the antique things, (you mentioned turn of the century, etc), there are many folks here on the VFG who might help with a few of the older or antique items you have. You could post a photo or two of each and someone will give an opinion as to the of age, condition, and what it is you have there. Start with a few and go from there.

We do not give dollar value here on the VFG, but knowing what you have before parting with it should be helpful to you.



Best of luck!
 
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I believe both the George Washington University and Howard University have collections. GW is textile, but Howard collects examples of dress for its fashion arts students. If you are willing to donate you could ask the curator to look at what you have and take what they want. What the don't want they might be able to suggest where you could go to sell the balance.
 
Hi,
If you'd like to send me some photos, I can let you know the approximate value of what you have. An appraisal is a good idea if you would like a tax deduction for a non-profit donation. I do clothing & textile appraisals, including private, institutional and for the Antiques Roadshow. If you're considering selling part or all of the collection, I have an auction business that specializes in fashion and I might be interested in selling some pieces for you. Whatever you decide, good luck! Best, Karen augusta-auction.com
 
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