How easily can this lace dress be repaired?

[zannew]

Hi again,

I have acquired a lovely lace dress that has two holes in the lace at the bodice - shoulder level. I have pictured. Is this a major problem? How easy would it be to have this repaired? Should I have it repaired before listing or let the buyer handle it? Could you please give me an estimate as to the age of the dress?

Thank you!

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

I think your dress is '50s or early '60s - it would help if you could tell us what sort of material it is. Has the hem been taken up? It's short for '50s so if this is the original length, I'll go with '60s.

Lace is not hard to fix but laces of this time are usually quite fragile if they're starting to go - you can see lots of small breaks in the tulle backing so even when fixed, I think this lace will continue to rip a little. I recommend selling as is, but it will be best if you could take it to a repairer and get their advice as handling the material is much better than a photo.

 

[zannew]

Thank you for that information. The hem looks like it may have been let down once. The fabric feels like silk. There is a fine black tulle layer under the lace at the bodice, and over the silk, it has been sewin into the darts and seams of the dress. There is black seam tape at the hem. The raw edges are pinked. The back is secured with a hook and eye at the top.

 

[pastperfect2]

If there is a fine black tulle under the lace, I would suggest laying a piece of black tulle under the slits and catching the edges of the split lace to the tulle. It just takes a small needle, a fine hand and thin thread! Plus patience. Lots of patience. If you have someone who can do it well, I'd go ahead. If not, offer as is.

And I agree with Nicole on early 1960s with the length.

Hollis