Christian Dior_Item Conservation and sales_Help

[Ellhward]

Hello all!

I found these items lingering in my Grandmother’s attic, and I think they are rather beautiful. Granny can’t remember much as, well dementia, but she certainly went places.

All Christian Dior, not sure what date range?

Silk dresses have rips, I have photographed. One dress its very minimal, but the silk fabric is just so delicate. The jacket has been attacked by one of my naughty cousins most likely, the shoulder pads removed. The actual jacket seems fine.

All about Size 10.

I have not attempted to clean/steam, I’m just airing at the moment so the fabric looks scrunched.

Anyone know a specialist Dior dealer? Anyone know if I should bother taking to a tailor to fix before selling? How/what site to sell? Is there any point selling?

I would like to sell them to someone who will look after the pieces, as very delicate and will treat them well. I don’t think the dresses could be worn.

The pale dress, has the matching kaftan that hangs over it. Its pretty gorgeous.

Any help appreciated!

 

[MagsRags]

Lucky you to have a grandma that shopped at Dior!

Dior boutique means RTW (Ready To Wear); i.e., not couture. They still have value, but condition becomes more important in selling or donating, and museums and auction houses are not so likely to be interested.

The small hole in your closeup of the gray jacket looks like a moth bite - I would keep it away from your personal wardrobe until you have treated it to stop more moth damage. I do mine by bundling into a plastic bag, and doing a freeze-thaw-freeze series. You should find detailed instructions if you search, and there are other approaches.

 

[Ellhward]

Hello,

Thanks for help! I will get fixed-up and put online.

Yes, I examined for closely for moth and I couldn’t see anything else, but jacket is actually wrapped and in freezer for now.

Warmest,
E

 

[claireshaeffer]

Here's a little more info about Boutique designs. At some houses, the garments were made in the couture workrooms, but they were not made for the customer's measurements. Most houses would alter the garment as needed for the customer.
Some houses had separate workrooms that utilize less handwork than couture designs, but more than ready-to-wear. At Dior, they were sometimes numbered.