Help dating antique handmade dress

[Leah B]

Hello! I just acquired this dress in a vintage lot. It is in pretty rough shape. I’m not quite sure what the fibers are or the age of the dress. The outer layer is light and airy, some type of faux silk. Inner layer is a little more durable.

Unfortunately the underarms and chest show lots of staining and that area has become quite fragile. The lower section of the dress is still in good condition.

any help on age, fabric and potential ways to preserve/reuse would be so appreciated!

 

[bycinbyhand]

1930s! I think it's silk with a silk acetate blend sort of slip. You could do a burn test though to be 100% sure.

 

[Leah B]

Thank you! I was just reading about burn tests yesterday. I’m nervous to do that

 

[MagsRags]

The outer layer might be something like organza or organdy, and not necessarily silk. I have some personal experience with re-thinking a damaged gown with two layers like this. When I got married in 1980, I wore a vintage gown, as did my bridesmaid and junior bridesmaid. I had in my possession an aqua dress my mom had worn as a bridesmaid in 1940.

Acetate inner as Cin said - outer gauzy layer organza or organdy, felt cottony but was probably a blend. Anyway, the outer skirt and parts of the puffed sleeves had deteriorated. The bodice was good, and the wide lace trim on the skirt was good. So we removed the sleeves, sheer upper bodice & collar, as well as the outer skirt, harvesting the lace. We used the lace to edge the now-square neckline, and added a lace peplum. Here's how it turned out: