Help with Edwardian lace gown

[Simone]

I recently acquired this lovely Edwardian silk and lace gown and I need some input! I know the dress itself is (early?) 1910s, but what I'm stumped on is whether the black and silver beaded trim is a more modern addition or original to the dress. Since I'm not very experienced with trims and beading, I was hoping someone might be able to help.

If I were to guess, I would think it is not as old as the rest of the dress - the beading is on a very sturdy netting that seems newer. However, it's sewn on quite well and there are hooks and fabric eyes on the beaded part in the back (I know that doesn't necessarily mean anything, since someone could've moved those). Any help is much appreciated!

 

[Rue_de_la_Paix]

While it is hard to say for sure without actually handling the trim, I do think the trim looks rather heavy for the dress. The dress is so light weight, and the black trim looks bulky and not quite right.

 

[MagsRags]

There's something theatrical about the black trim, as if it's intended to add visual impact/drama to a dress that is complete without it. I agree with you Barbara about the heaviness being off kilter for the ethereal quality of the dress.

 

[Simone]

Thanks for your thoughts! It definitely does seem heavy to me as well. Also, it seems unlikely that the dress would be in such good condition -no tears to the lace or silk - if that trim had been weighing it down for the past 100 years (unless it was stored amazingly, of course)

 

[Jonathan]

It doesn't look right to me either and I can see the stitching to attach it on the sleeves is crude. Also, the placement of the beading across the bust is badly placed and doesn't look right to me.

 

[Simone]

I spent a while yesterday removing the trim and wanted to share the result! Unfortunately the trim left marks from the diamond shapes which I don't think I can do anything about, but she still looks so much better now. Thanks for your help!

 

[pastperfect2]

That looks so much better!

 

[poppysvintageclothing]

Agreeing here that does look so much better!!!! Lovely coloring to it.

 

[Rue_de_la_Paix]

I agree, it looks so much better without that black trim. Very pretty.

 

[Jasmin Key]

I love how your dress looks without the trim! Beautiful.