help with edwardian dress

[nicolasvintageboutique]

I just purchased an Edwardian dress but I'm having trouble identifying the extent of the alterations. Someone, clearly very recently, sewed on two straps, probably to help it hang on the hanger better. The entire dress is made of a very delicate silk and I suspect that someone recently sewed in a cotton lining on the sleeves. The only way to do it up is through the metal hardware on the back. I'm unsure as to whether the beading is recent, though most indications point towards it being original.
I can share a few photos.

bodice

lining of sleeve

front hem

side slit

lining near back hem

Thanks!

Nicola

 

[Jonathan]

This isn't really something that can be determined from small online digital pics. It would need to be handled by someone who deals or collects in dresses from this period and understands materials and contruction techniques. The first place to start your investigation is with the person you got the dress from - did they add the straps - did they do any conservation to the piece, and where did they get the item?

 

[nicolasvintageboutique]

I actually bought it at an annual vintage clothing sale that a local theatre puts on every year. Would it help if I posted larger pictures or is there no chance of receiving help on here? Thanks for the response,

Nicola

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

Jonathan's right: this is the sort of question that is easily answered by holding the garment and looking for the things you want to look for - but even larger pics are going to make it hard to tell. As well, theatres are notorious for altering vintage and antique garments! In fact, can you even be sure this is a real Edwardian gown or a costume that has been pieced together from old fabrics and bits of beaded '20s dresses?

I agree with Jonathan that it would be a good idea to talk to the seller or perhaps the wardrobe mistress. Your photos just show that this is a piece that has had many adventures, I can't tell at all how much is original and how much added.

Nicole

 

[nicolasvintageboutique]

I can't be totally sure if it has been pieced together from other vintage garments. I guess that I will just have to try and find an expert that lives close buy. Thanks again,

Nicola