Dating (and how to clean/or not?) french beaded evening bag

[Robin of Frocksley]

This little floral bag is lovely, but has lipstick on the lining and some discoloration on the back of the bag. I'm wondering how to clean it without damaging the satin or beading, or if I shouldn't risk cleaning it. Also, am I right in thinking this style of bag was common in the 40's? Any help would be lovely, thanks!

 

[Pinkcoke]

I wouldn't attempt to clean it for that size of stain - I've seen lipstick explosions in some bags!
To clean it properly you would be looking at removing the lining, to prevent any colour run going through to the beaded fabric side, or undoing an edge so that you can pull the lining out and place something absorbant on the other side of the stain. Lipstick is an oil based medium I believe so I would be looking at trying a little dishwashing liquid soap, but it would probably spread to a bigger stain before it disappeared, if at all. So you might end up with a larger pinkish splodge rather than a neat red mark...

 

[retro ruth]

If it were mine, I might try a make-up remover wipe on the lining, directing it only onto the stain with a cotton bud. They are alcohol based and so it won't need to get very wet, therefore there is less risk of it going through. At your own risk though, I haven't done this myself, so I can't promise it won't have the effect that Melanie says, or leave a different mark on the satin, or that it will help much. But that's what I would try.

I think the discolouration on the beading at the back can't be helped much either.

I think this is probably 1950s, but others may know better.

 

[Pinkcoke]

I forgot about dating but I was thinking along the lines Ruth is - 50's, by the snake chain, clasp and beaded frame top. There was a revival of 30's styles in accessories around the early 50's.

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

If anyone does know how to clean these, I'd love to know because my attempts have failed, although I like Ruth's idea of the make up wipes.

Yes, I find these are usually from the late '50s to the late '60s. Personally I'd put yours into the '60s by the snake chain strap and the labels but they're classic designs and were made over a period of time.

 

[Robin of Frocksley]

Thanks, all! I was afraid that cleaning it was not really possible. If I work up the courage to try the makeup wipes (thanks, Ruth!), I'll let you all know how it works out. Thanks also for the advice on dating, you all are the best.