Is this just an early dry cleaning label?

[cltvintagefinders]

I have seen stapled-in, hand-written dry cleaning tags, similar to this.

I think it's an older dress, as your impressions indicate.

Have you managed to complete the burn test?

I'm getting an older, black rayon velvet gown vibe, for formal occasion wear.

I did complete the burn test. I still feel that it's rayon.

 

[Catbooks1940s]

Thank you for posting this beautiful example! Each time I see images of garments like this, it makes me want to create and sew!

you're welcome. do it!!

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

Lovely! So we have a rayon velvet gown with a silk faille lining - I'm still in the '40s camp, I'll put it as late '40s thanks to the lining, thin straps and construction details.

Either way you have a beautiful gown.

 

[Pinkcoke]

i've seen oodles of old dry cleaners tags with those thick and wide staples, but never with a person's name written on them. they've always been printed, with a numbering system particular to the individual cleaners, for easy retrieval.

This got me thinking, what if it's a faded dry cleaner's label that has then been written on for owner ID? To those who've seen these old dry cleaner's tags before - have they been written on in marker pen or was it printed or written carefully in ink like custom made garment labels?
It's the way this is written that makes it hard for me to believe it was a form of advertisement, it just doesn't look professional enough.

 

[joules]

I agree Joan, that your example clearly illustrates "coffin pleats" / "coffin draping". That keyword gets thrown around with wild abandon, doesn't it? Especially with Halloween approaching!
It's ruching, plain and simple; I'd not have applied any other description.

Those heavy metal staple fasteners always freak me out, like hey, let's not damage the goods. Yikes.

Good going on the burn testing, to confirm rayon.
You could also burn test the lining, to be sure.
I'd expect to find rayon acetate.
I feel this is 40s too.

 

[Catbooks1940s]

This got me thinking, what if it's a faded dry cleaner's label that has then been written on for owner ID? To those who've seen these old dry cleaner's tags before - have they been written on in marker pen or was it printed or written carefully in ink like custom made garment labels?
It's the way this is written that makes it hard for me to believe it was a form of advertisement, it just doesn't look professional enough.

that makes a lot of sense!

julie, heh, yes, the term does get thrown around a lot. i feel the same way, those old staples were usually so thick and wide, it is worrying removing them without being concerned about damaging the fabric.

 

[cltvintagefinders]

As a Newbie, I have to say.. I Love the dialogue, along with the comparison of notes! It make me feel like I'm "at home" here.

 

[joules]

We're thrilled to welcome you!