Help Dating Brocade Dress and Materials

[brooke1178]

Hello everyone!
I need help with the date. I know its brocade but does it have a specific name. Also, what is the fabric underneath? Also, how are the white elastic bands on inside of bodice used? I cannot figure it out!
Thank so much! Again!

 

[Linn]

Very pretty. It looks 1950's - early 1960's to me. The yellow fabric on the interior appears to be organdy or organza - could be silk, or nylon or another fiber, you'd have to test it. The fabric is brocade, (a type of jacquard weave,) and this kind type of brocade is sometimes referred to as damask, - especially when it's reversible. Can't help with the elastic straps. I can't tell where they "start" - is it near the shoulders?

 

[TangerineBoutique]

The elastic straps hook around back so the neckline will stay anchored and not gape when the person bends forward. It's an old dressmakers trick and it works very well.

Melody

 

[Linn]

The elastic straps hook around back so the neckline will stay anchored and not gape when the person bends forward. It's an old dressmakers trick and it works very well.

Thanks, Melody!

Linn

 

[Vinclothes]

The brocade is probably rayon. That old bugaboo again - weave and fiber content. Brocade could be made of silk, wool, cotton, etc.
Marian

 

[bycin]

What a pretty dress and color. Love the color!

 

[Pinkcoke]

Gorgeous dress, I was going to say the elastic is the same as the modern backless (or low back) bra straps you can buy, except they have the bra hooks & bra fastener at the back to go on an existing bra.

 

[brooke1178]

Thanks!!! Its in such amazing condition too! Yes, the straps start at the front shoulders. Do they criss cross in the back. Maybe the dress is missing part of the hook and eye closure because the straps are long.

 

[brooke1178]

Gorgeous dress, I was going to say the elastic is the same as the modern backless (or low back) bra straps you can buy, except they have the bra hooks & bra fastener at the back to go on an existing bra.

Wait. I am confused. hahahha!

 

[Pinkcoke]

They go round the sides, cross at the back and secure at the stomach.

The use Melody described is correct, it does the same thing on a dress neckline or bra, holds it in place.

 

[brooke1178]

That is very interesting information. Thank you very much. I would have never thought it secured at the stomach!