How Damaged is too Damaged?

Which Era Do You Wear Most Often?

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Delaney52

Delaney52

Registered Guest
Hello fellow vintage enthusiasts! I tried on this dress and loved it, but the hem is quite damaged and would need to be hemmed up to the beginning of the embroidery. It also had some small tears throughout, but I think the heavy embroidery would keep those from perpetuating. I believe the dress is organza with a lining that is likely acetate (which would also need to be hemmed). Could it be saved?

Thanks for the input!
-Delaney
 

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Hi Delaney, I can see why you are so enamored with that dress! Visually I think it would work well even if hemmed to the beginning of the embroidery. Although I'm a stickler for offering items with little or no damage when it comes to selling, I'm much less concerned with damage issues in my own personal vintage wardrobe. Only you can decide what is acceptable for you. A couple of questions to consider... is the cost in line with damages? and is the fabric sturdy enough to be worn without shredding?

Let us know what you decide.
 
Thank you for your help Alice! I didn't end up getting it while at the shop, but I may inquire as to whether or not it is still there. It's so pretty, I think it might be worth the risk!
 
I would save it. The overall design wouldn't be lost by re-hemming. You might find it's a little too short after the cut so I would look at re-hemming with a nice ribbon or matching colour fabric if you can.
 
That's a good idea, thanks! I will probably try to salvage whatever I can of the cream hem material if the tattering doesn't extend all the way to the embroidery. If it does, perhaps I will find an alternative trim; I do love the look of the contrasting hem and would rather not lose it!
 
I had the same idea as Melanie. Rather than cutting the fabric or hemming up to the embroidery, just add an edging over it, at the edge of the embroidery, to conceal the damage. It's really cute.
 
I agree with Melanie and Liza. I would replace the damaged section with a similar fabric.

An easy way to do this would be to cut the band double the width plus seam allowances and sew both cut edges to the bottom of the embroidered skirt.
 
That sounds easy enough, then I probably wouldn't have to get it professionally done! Thank you, Claire!
 
That is actually better for me, as machine-sewing is not really my forte :) Would I press the hem flat after adding the band?
 
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