Wedding Clothing, Accessories & Gifts
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[ORDER ITEM - #11779]
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# 11779 - c. 1930's Candlelight Ivory Satin Trained Wedding Gown with Low Sexy Lace Cowl Neckline!  One of the most beautiful 1930s gowns I've seen.  I adore the shape!  HOWEVER.. PLEASE NOTE... This has underarm problems!!   So...... This is either for display (where the underarms aren't much of an issue, or consider revamping this gown to be sleeveless., or replace the current sleeves with lace sleeves (the modern look).  Sadly the darker ecru lace at the bodice of this gown has some tears/lace breaks (see photos), so as you might replace that lace anyway (easy fix), you could match that to the new lace sleeves.  You MAY still see a bit of light underarm staining, but it's hardly seen on the dress, most is on the sleeve. There will be material (from the sleeves, and/or from the tie belt - if you prefer the gown without it - the attached belt can be worn bowed in front or in back or removed) to do whatever is necessary.   SO.... this gown is for the person who can sew, or has someone who can to turn this into that special gown you were hoping for!   The hemline is a slight large scalloped shape.  The seaming at the lower hipline is lovely.  The gown closes at the back side with hooks/eyes and a few snaps   Fits my 35"25"/36" mannequin perfectly, but will also fit up to 35"/27"/37", 58" long from shoulder to hem in front, 96" long in back.  Click on the photo at the left to see a photo of the original 1930s bride wearing this gown!!!    ON CONSIGNMENT. PLEASE READ CONDITION ISSUES ABOVE. 

$  1,485.   ORDER 

Approx. - SIZE 0-4
(check measurements above)

 



[ORDER ITEM - #11721]
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# 11721 - c. 1930's BONWIT TELLER, Philadelphia, New York, Paris Ivory Satin Wedding Gown with Trained OverVest!  I have had quite a few 1930's wedding gowns with trained overcoats, but this is the first one I've had with a trained over VEST!  So the puffy upper sleeves are part of the gown, but still seen when the train is worn.  NICE! This is a lovely ivory liquid satin.  The condition you ask??  Surprisingly wonderful.  There are extreme minor issues... the only obvious one is the front skirt where the bride obviously slightly snagged the satin with her bouquet. As this gown has had a previous life, I like the idea that there is something tangible to remind you of previous bride... I love history!!!  There are EXTREMELY LIGHT, BARELY SEEN underarm discolorations.  You won't see them in normal lighting... only if you are inspecting the gown under bright lights.  Any other issues are barely worth mentioning other than that the 18 buttons which were removed for cleaning (yes they will come with the gown) will now need to be cleaned, or re-covered as they are darker than the gown... and then sewn back on.  LOVE the crisscross back of the gown.  LOVE the puffy sleeves (which can be worn stuffed as you see, or worn "deflated" as the previous bride wore it (see photos).  The gown measures approx: 58 " long from shoulder to hem in the back,  63" long from shoulder to hem in the front,  107" long from shoulder to hem in the back with the vest on. Difficult to measure but fits the 33" bust, 25" waist dressform quite well. However you can see there is extra room, so perhaps up to 34/35" bust, 27" waist.  Note:  the gown is shorter in the back than the front... perhaps hemmed up at some point due to a heel tear or something..... but it's still quite long even if hemmed up all around to the 58" length all around the hemline.  That would also give you extra material if you need to re-cover buttons, or increase the size anywhere.  This gown rates a 9.9 out of 10!   Hard to believe it's 80 years old!!!!! 

$  985.   ORDER 

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)


[ORDER ITEM - #11388]
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# 11388 - c. 1894/1895 M.A. CONNELLY, 7 East 16th Street, New York Ivory Silk Satin Wedding Gown with Mutton or Gigot Sleeves!  Deaccession from the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum So.... the last M.A. Connelly wedding gown from 1880 sold on my website for over $7500.  That's what these are worth... if in Excellent condition.  Sadly, this one isn't.  There are large silk slits (shattering) in one mutton sleeve and a number of small ones on the other sleeve and on the skirt (including one fairly long slit at skirt back - at the skirt bustle fold) and the skirt waist has come ungathered at the skirt back.  The interior is fairly good, except for the interior bodice wrap (see photos).  So although it's a museum quality piece, the condition would require a conservationist.   In researching "M.A. Connelly" for the previous gown, I found out just how special these are!  Sure, there is one M.A. Connelly gown in the Boston Museum of Fine Art, but it's the discovery that our 19th President, Rutherford B. Hayes' wife, Lucy Hayes wore an M.A. Connelly gold damask and cream satin gown to the White House New Year’s reception in 1880!!!!  Yup!  And not only that, but this was her dressmaker of choice (per Feb. 2009 issue of "Past Times", a publication produced by the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center).  The article reads:  "In January 1880, 'Mrs. R.B. Hayes' went shopping at M.A. Connelly in New York.  There she ordered three new gowns for White House functions.  The receipt shows Lucy paid $300 for a 'green striped velvet' dress, $225 for a 'black brocade velvet' dress, $350 for a 'white brocade satin' dress, $12 for a pair of corsets and $49.50 for lace.  Totaling $936.50 which would be $21,000 today. More information from M.A. Connelly is that she moved her business to 331 5th Ave. sometime between 1880-1892, and according to the NYC Real Estate Records of Dec 4th, 1897, she moved her dressmaking and importer business to 9 West 34th Street.   On this gown, the interior label is present, but it folded under on the petersham (which I don't understand why).  There are lots of matching bows that were removed or just fell off the dress... I've placed a few on the shoulders and down the front... but I believe they were originally around the lower skirt as there is still ONE that remains there.   I'm sure this bride would have decorated this gown with wax flowers as was the fashion back then.   The shape and the design is simple and classic.   I WISH it was in excellent condition, but alas...   Measures about 29" bust, 22" waist.   Display size.  CONSIGNED PIECE.   Also listed in the 1850-1920s section.  FINAL SALE ITEM. 

$ 1,985.  ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 3717 - c. 1905 Ivory Silk 2-piece Trained Wedding or Evening Gown!  This 2-piece gown has been in my personal collection for about 10 years now. It's as nearly perfect as any gown can be at 110+ years old!  The ivory silk is soft and like new.  The bodice yoke and mid-sleeves are completely lace.  Now I'm not a lace expert, but this lace looks like handmade Duchesse to my untrained eye.  I have a few large closeup photos of the lace for you to tell me!  The skirt lining is cotton so it's perfect, and there are 4 layers of material at the hemline (see photos).  The interior bodice is nearly perfect with French seaming and tiny little bows.  There is a tape inside the back of the skirt which gives the train the right shape.  It's a tiny gown, so my mannequin is a bit too large for it, but it closes fine up the back.  Love the other details like the ruching on the skirt sides, upper skirt and wide cuffs, the puffy sleeves, and the pigeon shape bodice front.  The only issues are tiny, like an ink mark on the mid-seam back of the skirt (a good drycleaner should be able to remove), the shredding of the silk at the inside hem of only one of the 4 layers (hardly worth mentioning as it can be removed if you want), wear at the skirt waist (not seen when worn), and only the MOST minor tiny other spots on skirt.  Condition is a 9.9 out of 10. Measures:  29" bust, 22" waist, 41" long from shoulder to hem in front, 70" long in back.  All this needs to be spectacular are some wax flowers ornaments.  Also listed in the 1850-1920s section.  

$  1,765.   SOLD 

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 2010 - c. late 1920's Ecru Silk Satin Gown!  So pretty!  This is one of those gowns that you can wear for all it's simplicity or you can use it as a base and add rhinestone trim, add a belt with rhinestone buckle, add 20s silk flowers, etc, etc.  It's a lovely shape which will hug your hips, full skirt, low back.  Sweet!  Measures:  up to 32" bust, up to 28" waist, up to 35" hips, 52-57" long from shoulder to hem.  Would look great as a gown for a shorter woman, or will look equally great as a ankle length gown.   The asymmetric hemline has interesting tulle fabrication at front to give special design at the waist/hip as well as the hem.  Side hooks/eyes at side.  Very good condition.  There are just minor satin bruises and a very very slight darkening at the upper back (you won't see it at all under most lights).  There is one small net tear at the hem (will need only a few stitches, but I can't sew, so...).    Also listed in the 1850-1920s section.   

$  685.  SOLD 

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 950 - c. late 1800's Man's Ivory Silk Satin Embroidered Wedding Suspenders or Braces!  So pretty!  Pretty enough for a woman to wear! Lovely ivory silk satin suspenders or braces without the hardware... this is just the embroidered fabric.  Lovely for display as is, or add the hardware to wear.  Excellent condition.  Beautiful embroidery of little red buds and light blue forget-me-nots flowers with green flowers.  Measures: 25" long by 1.75" each.    Also Listed in the Lingerie Category.  

$ 185. SOLD

 


[ORDER ITEM - #11429A]
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# 11429A -- c. 1910's Wedding Wax Headpiece! I'm also offering this simple wax headpiece to be worn with the wedding gown above.  Although it didn't come with the wedding gown, it's very similar to what was worn, so you might want to purchase to go with the silk net veil that comes with the gown above.    Otherwise... you can purchase separately as well! :)  One side shows a bit more messiness with the thread that may have been attached to the original veil.  LOVE the unique daisies in this piece.  Under $150, so FINAL SALE.

$ 85. ORDER


[ORDER ITEM - #5170]
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# 5170 -- c. 1930's Wedding Beaded Headpiece with Net Veil!  As with most of these vintage wedding headpieces, the veils are a bit dry and you may want to just get a new one for a few dollars... but surprisingly this veil is still in good (though dry) condition with just that one layer small hole you see at top.  The headpiece is GORGEOUS.  White and Ecru beads and faux pearls beads edged in netting.  Crescent shape... you may need to get new elastic at back to stay on.  But if you want to great vintage look... this is it.  Excellent condition.   Under $150, so FINAL SALE.

$ 145. ORDER

 



SOLD
# 11390 -  RARE c. 1959 PRISCILLA OF BOSTON Huge Lighted Ivory Silk Taffeta Trained Hourglass Off-Shoulder Wedding Gown with Chantilly Lace and Panniers!  Worn by Miss Carolyn Belle/Mrs. Teddy Houston Rowe of Roanoke, VA!   Always great to have the absolute provenance with a wedding gown.  And even better to know that this marriage is a long and happy one.  Married on December 19, 1959... this couple repeated their wedding vows 50 years later in 2009!  The wedding gown was worn only once, and beautifully preserved over the last 55 years.  The description of the gown from the original wedding newspaper clipping reads:  "The bride wore a formal gown of light ivory bouquet taffeta with molder bodice, scalloped bateau neckline, bracelet sleeves and princess skirt with paneled Chantilly lace front, gathered side panniers and back skirt of matching lace with chapel train."  Measures:  34" bust, 25" waist, 43" long from waist to hem in front and 55" long in back.  There are 40 self-covered tiny buttons at the back (I hope you will forgive me for not buttoning all... you really want to have a button hook for this, or a maid of honor with tiny finger with sharp nails! :)  Priscilla of Boston wedding gowns were highly prized... even so that Richard Nixon's and Lyndon Baines Johnson's daughters wore Priscilla gowns for their White House weddings. Grace Kelly's bridesmaids wore Priscilla of Boston gowns in 1956. Even the Mad Men's costume designer,  Janie Bryant wore a Priscilla of Boston gown for her wedding in 2011. The gowns sold for up to $10,000, when it closed in 2011.   Excellent condition with only extreme minor dirt underside hemline, one very light spot on front lace (see photo) probably from the original calla lilies carried, and just the most minor pulls in the taffeta... only seen when inspecting closely.  99.5% perfect!!  LOVELY!!! 

$ 795.   SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2/4



[ORDER ITEM - #11378]
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# 11378 -  c. 1930's Trained White Satin Bias Wedding Gown with Beaded Neckline!   Whoo Whoo!  A nearly perfect condition 1930s white satin trained gown!!! Lovely seaming inverted "v" underbust, slightly puffed muttonchop shape sleeves (tight lower arm), round neckline with satin braid and balls creating a "necklace" effect, long wide train (has loop under to hold up the train for dancing/walking).  So many of these gowns have satin bruising or dirt marks.  This gown is practically flawless... if you look extremely closely you might see a few extremely minor tiny spots, but it's 99% perfect.  BUT... you know there's always a BUT with vintage... really the only thing to mention is that although I think they are all original, the buttons are just slightly large (or the loops are just slightly small) so buttoning and unbuttoning this is quite time consuming.  Good news is they won't come undone.  Bad news is the groom will NOT be able to get you out of this dress... he won't have the patience!!!   Measures:  up to 35" bust, up to 27" waist, up to 36" hips (shown on 36" hips, but a bit tight), 57" long from shoulder to hem in front, 80" long in back.  This is the shape and the look that so many brides want when looking for a 1930s gown... so.... don't let it get away!!    FINAL SALE ITEM to keep it as pristine as it is.

$ 965.   ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 0-4 (small hips)

 


[ORDER ITEM - #242]
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# 242 -  c. 1913 Trained Ecru Ivory Silk Edwardian Gown with Beaded Netting!   I get a lot of people asking for gowns that perhaps aren't in perfect condition as it keeps the price affordable... and perhaps those people have the "magic" (sewing skills) that I don't have....as I have trouble sewing on a button.  I still want to sell items that are in good enough condition that it will survive many more years with care.  So.... I have had this gown in my own collection since 1996!  My god time flies!!!  Sheer chiffon at yoke and sleeves are covered with beading.  Sadly there is some tearing of the chiffon on the top layer of the 3 layered chiffon/net sleeves (see photos)., and as always, there is tearing in the lining.  There are also small marks here and there on the dress and dirty along hemline.   LOVE the draping at the one side with the rope ornament! LOVE the detailed ornament at the mid bust and the asymmetrical bustline. Measures:  up to 33" bust, 26" underbust waist, 60" long from shoulder to hem in front, 66" long in back.  Also listed in the 1850-1930s section.  FINAL SALE ITEM (priced to sell!!!!!  Think quickly!!!!)

$ 465.   ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 0


[ORDER ITEM #7246]
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 # 7246 - c. 1970's PRISCILLA of BOSTON Ivory Silk Organdy and Lace Wedding Gown with Detachable Lace Watteau Train!   I got married in 1974 (the first time) and begged my parents to buy me a gown from Priscilla of Boston.  It was "THE" place.  It cost $335.  I wanted the $425 gown, but it was too expensive for the budget.  This one would have been at least $500 with the matching original detachable lace train!!!!  So... with inflation, that's over $2,000 today.  So WHY did I want a Priscilla gown??  Well, In 1956, Priscilla was chosen to custom design the bridesmaids' gowns for Grace Kelly's fairytale wedding to Prince Rainier (with Grace's favorite costume designer, Helen Rose creating her wedding gown).  Priscilla was also responsible for the A-line shift and Watteau court train of French Alencon and English net worn by US President Lyndon Johnson's daughter Luci Baines Johnson for her wedding in 1966 (see below.)  AND she also custom designed US President Richard Nixon's daughter, Julie Nixon's bridal gown in 1968 and played a part in Tricia Nixon's gown in 1971.  And I LOVE this:  Priscilla Kidder personally escorted Tricia Nixon's wedding dress to the White House, with an armed escort of secret service agents.  A first class seat was purchased for the dress to ensure it's safe journey.  The story of the gown and the Priscilla of Boston company was a featured cover story in Life magazine in 1971.  So...  back to this gown.  It's a beautiful ivory silk organdy with lace appliques (Priscilla's signature) with bell sleeves, low "v" back and wide square neckline at front.  Back zipper.  The matching open-down-the-middle lace watteau train attaches at the shoulders.  Excellent condition for both pieces.  I found one barely seen perhaps pencil mark on the front lower skirt which I can't imagine won't come out. Measures:  34/35" bust, 56" long from shoulder to hem, 84" long train.

$ 645.  ORDER

Approx. - SIZE4/6
 


SOLD
# 11426 -  c. 1905 Edwardian Lawn Dress with Custom White Cotton Slip  You get two-two-two pieces with his lot!  The "Edwardian" (I put that in quotes as it's more like c. 1905 era due to the pigeon front shape, so it's more Gibson Girl era... but hey... ) white lace lawn dress has a great shape with wide 1/2 length sleeves (so on problem with them too tight), a low neck (no tight neckbands), a pigeon front (you can make one or two tucks to make that fit less poufy), lace waistband, fitted lacy to below hips and then loose gathered skirt with lacy bottom.   The slip was custom made (and I gotta say is beautifully done!) to fit under with ruffly bottom.  No closures on the slip, just over the head. The dress has lovely crochet buttons up the back.  There was one augmentation made to the back of the waistband with a bit of white cotton to give the previous owner extra breathing room... it can be removed if you want.  The only other issue is one of the buttons is missing the center, but still works,.... just floppy.  Otherwise.. really Excellent condition.  Measures: 34" bust, up to 24" waist, up to 35" hips, 52" long from shoulder to hem.  (The slip is a bit larger at 34/32/38" and 51" long.)   Also Listed in the 1850-1930s Section.

$ 545.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE: 0 
(check measurements above) 


[ORDER ITEM #7657]
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# 7657 - c. 1998 The Man In The Iron Mask MGM/UA Movie Costume In the Style of c. 1670 French Fashion!  Screen-worn Off-the-Shoulder Trained Gown!  Movie Starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Worn by Judith GodrecheHIGHEST QUALITY COSTUME!  Never has anyone looked more beautiful on-screen than Judith Godreche in this off-the-shoulder ivory silk brocade gown!  She is not enjoying a candlelight dinner with Leonard DiCaprio (King Louis XIV), but man she is gorgeous!!! You can see the photos if you click on this gown, or if you want to watch a clip from the movie, see below.  Huge balloon sleeves with lace cuffs, long torso and extreme full skirt with the glorious bodice embroidered with gold lace trim and pearls. Comes with the screen-worn pair of cream-colored opaque stockings and a bag of assorted trims and lace.  Accompanied by a DVD copy of the film.  This gown was also worn in the subsequent suicide, but luckily she didn't hurt the gown!  This is THE gown worn, as you can notice the same few pearls missing from the upper back in the movie clip!  Excellent condition (though not absolutely perfect, still nothing worth even mentioning) and includes minor issues (any seamstress can fix in a few minutes) including the back skirt seam is undone.  Why? Who knows, but it's a simple fix.  You will want to purchase a Renaissance hip roll underpinning and a huge slip for the gown to look like this (they are not expensive online).  Measures: 30/31" bust, 24" waist, 43" long skirt from natural waist, 62" long skirt from waist in back.  NOTE:  the back closes with hidden corset ties.  Since it's quite a small size, if you are planning to wear this, you may need to increase the size so you can use the extra laces and trim to do what is needed.  Get creative.  It's do-able!!!!   Definitely wearable for a wedding gown!! Extra Shipping Charges apply. Final Sale as it's a Movie/Memorabilia piece.  

$ 9,500.  ORDER   (Extended Layaway Available)

Approx. - SIZE 0 (but can make larger at back to size 2/4 with small waist)
(check measurements above)

MOVIE CLIP:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uz2p4F__RHQ


[ORDER ITEM #6060]
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# 6060 - c. 1903 Edwardian White Cotton Embroidered Lawn Dress!  Another pretty and different Gibson Girl era white lawn dress!  This one has a surprising almost sexy "off the shoulder" look with the wide boat neck off the very high, very lacy neck.  The sleeves are just starting to show the puffy mid-1905/1906 muttonsleeve... and has the classic pigeon front from the Gibson Girl era.  The detailing of the embroidery, Val lace and drawnwork is of a beautiful design throughout.  Measures: up to 34" bust, up to 24" waist, 41" long from shoulder to hem in front, and 46" long in back!!  I show it with and without a pink sash but it doesn't come with it.. just to give you an idea.  You can just buy a simple colored ribbon to tie in front or back.  Shown over a petticoat that doesn't some with it either.  Too short anyway, but shows you if you use a nude or colored slip that you will see the detailing of the lace more!  Excellent condition!    Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category.

$ 765.  ORDER 

Approx. - SIZE: 0/2
(check measurements above) 

 


[ORDER ITEM #11005]
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# 11005 - c. 1910-1912 White Embroidered, Lace and Cutwork Lawn Dress! These white cotton or linen dresses of the Edwardian era were called lawn dresses, or lingerie dresses, or "whites"... and probably lots of other names as well. Basically they were the summer day dresses and could be worn with a variety of colored slips/linings.  Usually pink or light blue were the most popular, but you can make a statement with black, nude or just about any other color under you would like!  Please just wear SOMETHING under!! :)   This dress is one of those easily wearable ones... no high neck to choke you, 3/4 length sleeves, wide waistband inset to wear with or without a belt or sash, and nice lace design throughout.  Tiny crochet buttons up the back.  Excellent condition with just a slight "messiness" at back waist (see photo).  Measures:  33" bust, up to 26" slightly empire waist, up to 40" hips, 53.5" long from shoulder to hem.   Also Listed in the 1850-1930s Category.

$ 465. ORDER 

Approx. - SIZE: 0/2
(check measurements above) 


SOLD  
# 7465 - c. 1978 MOVIE WORN TRAINED WEDDING GOWN ENSEMBLEHeadpiece, Veil, Shoes, Underpants (!), and Gown!  Worn by MARY McCORMACK in the 1997  HOWARD STERN's Autobiographical Movie, PRIVATE PARTS This is the COMPLETE WEDDING ENSEMBLE worn by Mary McCormack in the role of Howard Stern's first wife, Alison. Trivia:  Julia Louis-Dreyfus was originally cast as Alison, but backed out to spend time with her family.  I just thought that was interesting.  But now back to the gown.  Meant to be worn off the shoulder (or just off the shoulder) is this lovely white applique covered organdy gown with puffy sleeves.  Comes with the ORIGINAL SCREEN WORN headpiece, lace trimmed veil, white shoes (approximately size 10), and.... are you ready for this... the white satin underpants.  Seems appropriate for a Howard Stern piece!  (I'm not a fan.... but my husband is... and now he's gonna be a judge on "America's Got Talent", so I'll reserve my opinion until I see/hear him OFF his radio show. Excellent condition for all pieces!!  Measures:  35/36" bust,  26" waist inner waistband, but can be slightly larger waist,  44" long from waist to hem in front, 60" long in back.  Back zipper.  Elastic shoulders to wear off-shoulder.  This isn't a high quality couture gown... just a pretty gown over a rayon underdress.  There are very tiny spots under and on lace, and a tiny bit of dirt along the hemline, but still great condition. The price reflects the movie memorabilia connection!!! Also Listed in the Memorabilia Category. 

$ 985. SOLD  

Approx. - SIZE 6
(check measurements above)



[
ORDER ITEM - #5932]
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# 5932 - c. 1950's PRISCILLA OF BOSTON Wedding Gown with Veiled Small Headpiece! I know Priscilla of Boston gowns were quite expensive when new.  I know that from my own experience.... as I begged my Mother for a Priscilla gown back in 1974.  We weren't able to buy the gown I wanted, but rather a lesser priced one which was STILL expensive! I know there are a few Priscilla gowns that I don't like, but most I do! :)   And this one.... I love!!  Especially if you love that "Audrey" 1950s shape (you know, the classic ballerina length wedding dress she wore in Funny Face).  Very fitted satin bodice with sweet lace appliques, small cap sleeves, wide rounded neckline, "v" waistline at front, very full hips to full sheer organdy skirt with satin ribbons, millions of tiny buttons up the back (OK, maybe not millions, but 47!), fingertip length tulle veil with face veil attached to small cap headpiece.  Measures: 33" bust, up to 24" waist, 58" long from shoulder to hem in front, 75" long in back.  Excellent condition. The only issues to mention at all is that some of the appliques are slightly darkened... so they are easily replaced, or use another applique over... or wear as is as it's ever so slight... but brides are picky, so I mention everything, and the gown may benefit from an airing out from the professional heirlooming (she just needs time out of the box and in fresh air, or your dry-cleaner will give her a "once over".. nothing horrible... again, I'm VERY picky!!!  NOTE:   I'm showing the gown without extra crinolines, but certainly it can be even poufier if you wish... though the hips are already poufy!!   The other lovely thing is you will see the little light blue ribbon inside the gown... for "something blue"! LOVE IT!!! Here's what was written about Priscilla of Boston gowns in the 1950s:  "Luxury department stores began carrying handcrafted Priscilla of Boston wedding gowns, made from the most exquisite fabrics and embellished with intricate bead and lacework. National popularity grew to such heights that everyone wanted to be a Priscilla bride. Priscilla's international distinction was clearly established in 1956 when she was chosen to design the exquisite bridesmaid gowns for the wedding of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco."   So...  what's good enough for Princess Grace Kelly should be good enough for you! :)  Grace's gown was designed by Helen Rose (FYI), her Hollywood costume designer.  

$ 985. ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 0, small 2
(check measurements above)


[ORDER ITEM #7280]
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# 7280 - c. 2000 EAVIS & BROWN, London Wedding Gown (2-piece) of Beaded and Embroidered Corset Lace-back Bustier and White Silk Satin Skirt! There is no other word than "STUNNING"!  From the extremely high-end famous boutique, "Les Habitudes" in Los Angeles, specializing in bridal and evening wear with an emphasis on gowns with romantic period influences. Dressing Hollywood's elite since 1982.  You would have to spend about $7500 today for a similar Eavis & Brown gown with matching bead edged huge shawl. Bodice: silver beading with silk embroidery with lace-up back on white silk satin. Skirt: white silk satin with fishtail small train at back. Shawl:  matching sheer silk with beadwork along the edges, matching the beadwork on the bodice. Measures: up to 33" bust (variable with the lace back and the thick removable bustpads), 25" waist, 36" hips, 43" long skirt in front, 51"  long in back.  Scarf measures: 29" x 97".   Excellent condition.  The best news, is you can easily wear your wedding gown again... as the bustier along is fabulous with a short skirt and/or suit.  And the skirt can be worn as an evening gown, or even much more casual with a white sweater! Whatever you can imagine! Sheer long scarf can be worn as a shawl or scarf. Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category. 

$ 2,245.  ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 0-4
(check measurements above)


[ORDER ITEM #7183]
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# 7183 - c. 1960's VASSARETTE Slip of White Antron Nylon Tricot, Size 34D Embellished with Black Appliqued Birds, Flower and Shakespearean Quote from Hamlet, "To Thine Own Self Be True"!  I have no idea who the "artist" was who embellished this vintage nylon white slip, but my hats off to them!  I wish I was talented enough to come up with this myself.  I'm only talented enough to recognize talent! :)  Is that a talent?? Anyway, this is a great piece for yourself, or to buy as a gift... even a wonderful bridal shower gift!  I'm assuming this is just some iron-on transfer thing, but again, it was expertly applied, and designed beautifully.  The slip is marked size 34D and that seems correct.  The mannequin has a 35" bust, and it's fine on her, so there's a bit of extra room, perhaps up to a 36" bust, up to 31" waist, up to 39" hips, 30" long from shoulder to hem (depending on the straps).  Near mint condition.  I can't tell you how to clean this, but I'm sure if you asked someone who knows about transfers, they will know.  I'm assuming best to handwash.  A unique piece!  As far as I know... one of a kind!   Also Listed in the Lingerie Category. 

$ 185.  ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 34D
(check measurements above) 


[ORDER ITEM #6327]
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# 6327 - c. 1960's H. LEVINE Bone Silk Sateen Simple Gown!! This could so easily be a Jackie Kennedy gown you might see in the Smithsonian! Gorgeously simple. Fitted bodice with classic pleated front bell-shaped skirt and front bow tie.  Would make a beautiful wedding gown especially for an early 1960s "Camelot" wedding theme!!  Or any wedding!  There are two minor issues.  The gown was dry-cleaned but slight underarm rings still remain. However, if you are wearing a bolero like this, these are, of course, never seen!  Measures:  34/35" (JUST fits on my 35"DD, though would be better on smaller breasts), 27" waist, and to the ground if you are about 5'4"/5'5"... approx size 6.   Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category. 

$ 285. ORDER   BOLERO SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6
(check measurements above)


[ORDER ITEM #5167]
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# 5167 - c. 1948 Wedding Gown (Trained) of White Rayon Satin!  Complete Original Ensemble!!  When it rains, it pours.... isn't that what they say?  Well, here's another 1940s wedding gown for you.  Also candlewhite rayon satin. For those of you who are planning your 1940s WWII themed wedding (and I know this is quite popular, especially when you get to see your soon-to-be husband wearing those incredibly sexy uniform whites... you know, like Richard Gere in "An Officer and a Gentleman").  You'll fall in love with him all over again as you walk down the aisle! This gown comes with this image of the original bride in this gown. As well as the original HEADPIECE (with wax flowers), SLIP, HOOP, and FLOWER HOLDER!  It was originally purchased at Jelleff's in Washington DC.  As you can see, the bride wore the gown with the original stiff petticoat and hoop skirt which gives it more shape.  But either way, it's pretty so I'm showing without the slips under!  Buttons all the way up the front bodice (I didn't button them all, takes too long, but all the covered buttons are there!).  Flattering low "v" front waistline with full trained skirt.  The sleeves are "v" cuffed with many buttons.  There is a sweet peter pan collar, and size metal zipper.  The gown is in Excellent condition with just one tiny red lipstick mark on the collar, and other that that, it's just about the satin bruising which is in many places (see photos), but this is only seen under certain lighting conditions.  Otherwise clean and very sturdy!  The HEADPIECE is in good condition, but the netting is very fragile and torn (can be replaced) with short net veil.  The petticoat is VERY stiff (I'm assuming that's original), and the HOOP is in great condition as well.  The FLOWER HOLDER is probably home made. Measures: 34" bust, 27" waist, 57" long in front from shoulder to hem, 93" long in back. MORE ENSEMBLE PHOTOS COMING...

$ 485.  ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 6
(check measurements above)


[ORDER ITEM #6829]
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# 6829 - c. 1970's Strawbridges & Clothier Bridal White Jersey Wedding Gown!  For your "Star Wars" / Futuristic / Space Age Wedding!  What do you think?  Just braid your hair in circles over your ears and Voila! Princess Leia!  Though I'm not suggesting you coif your hair like that for your wedding unless your groom has a lightsaber in hand!  Clean, white substantial poly-blend jersey trained gown with sleek mini high neck, long sleeves, and with the only decoration being the very subtle inverted "v" stitching at the modified empire bust and at cuffs.  From Strawbridges & Clothier Bridal (the old Philadelphia institution). Measures: 34" bust, 28" waist, 59" long from shoulder to hem in front, 73" long in back.  Excellent condition except for a barely seen mark on breast, and dirt along the hem and train (needs a dryclean).  I can't see any reason why this won't clean near perfectly.  Other than these areas, it's extremely clean and white!!  If you don't want a train, this can easily be hemmed without and then the dirt is gone! :)  Whoopie! :)  Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category. 

$ 425.  ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)
   


[ORDER ITEM - #3218]
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# 3218  - c. 1970's PRISCILLA of BOSTON Wedding Gown with Bell Sleeves on Ecru Bodice with Lace Appliques and Candlewhite Silk Lace Covered Skirt!  SNEAK PREVIEW... ask for information and photos coming!

$ 495. ORDER

 

 

Approx. - SIZE 4
(check measurements above)

 


[ORDER ITEM - #9914]
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# 9914 - c. 1980's AURELIE MARCIANO, Paris Pastel Beaded Silk Satin Fantasy Wedding Gown or Ballgown! The most incredible white silk satin ballgown delicately covered in pink, light blue, gold, copper, white, silver and clear sead beads in a floral vine design.  Fantasy gown shape with flattering "v" dropped waistline, large puffed sleeves, "v" neckline, and openfront skirt.  Think Cinderella's ballgown, or a Princess Renaissance gown ... or Glinda's Wizard of Oz gown!  All you need is a tall crowned hat and wand!  This is NOT a cheap knock-off of a gown.  In order to confirm that to you, I did a Google search for Aurelie Marciano, Paris.  What popped up is a bit of an interesting fashion history lesson.  Seems when Vera Wang was looking for a new career in 1990, she opened a bridal salon carrying the best of the best of wedding gowns.  The high-class salon carried her own designs as well as special gowns by other top designers such as Carolina Herrera, Victor Edelstein, Scaasi and Aurelie Marciano!  In a New York Times article from Sept 5, 1990, it reads: "Many dresses in the salon are highly ornamental.... The idea is to have merchandise you can't find elsewhere.  One of Victor Edelstein's designs is an off-the shoulder column of peau-de-soie with a bouffant overskirt ($27,500).  A more typical wedding dress is a full-skirted Marciano design of tissue-thin white damask with flowers and beadwork covering the bodice for $11,000.  Again these are 1990 prices!!!  With inflation... likely well over $25,000 for a Marciano gown with this much beading!!!!  Excellent condition with only one flaw... a spot on one shoulder puff (see photos).  You can try to see if a cleaner can get it out, or pinch a little of the puff and tack so it disappears, or cover with a bead or two or bow.  Otherwise, the gown is near Mint condition with even all the beading intact!  Shown with an extra crinoline under (doesn't come with it).  Back zipper. I doubt you will ever find another gown that even comes close if this is the style you are seeking. Measures: 36" bust, up to 29" waist, 57" long from shoulder to hem with extra 3" under hem. Also listed in the 1930-Today Category.

$ 4,750. ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 8/10
(check measurements above)


[ORDER ITEM - #4318]
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# 4318 - c. 1990's PETER LANGNER, Italy "Renaissance" Off-White Faux Fur Bodice with ABS Satin Skirt! The Original $1,600 Price of Bodice still attached! A quick Google search will give you all the information you need to know about Peter Langer. He's called a "couture master"(!) ... specializing in wedding and evening! is called "a couture master". Although the name of this style on the tag reads "Vilmorin", I think I would have called it "Gunievere" or "Queen Elizabeth I" as it definitely has that medieval or renaissance look! Great for your theme wedding (I added some necklaces to make a statement)! I paired the expensive bodice with a simple ABS Evening Essentials by Allen Schwartz long satin skirt. The skirt is just being thrown it as it matches up so well... but it's up to you if you want it, or find your own skirt, or add lots of petticoats under for a fuller look, or (I'm always full of idea) use this skirt as a base and add decorations or lace over. Excellent condition. Bodice measures: 33/34" bust, 25" waist, and has 25 buttons up back. Silk lined. Tight sleeves (so thin arms, please!). Skirt measures: 28" waist skirt, 45.5" long.

$ 685. ORDER

Approx. - SIZE 2/4
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 954 - c. late 1800's Men's White on White Double Breasted Vest! Excellent condition and ready for your man... now if your man is football player with a 23" neck, or really any normal sized 21st century guy... you'll have to pass on this piece. However, if you lucked out and got yourself a cute little Doug Flutie-type guy (amazing that he's a football player too!!), then you can check out this great double breasted jacquard fine cotton vest. I'd call it a size 38 S/R (I'll doublecheck that for you with my 40R man if you need me to). If you want the perfect gift for a guy who doesn't mind dressing in period garb...give him that classy white look... with a great pair of while linen pants and boater! Sexy!! Also seen in the 1850-1920s Category.

SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 38 S/R

ITEMS BELOW ARE SOLD!   ITEMS BELOW ARE SOLD!   SORRY!!!

[ORDER ITEM - #11429]
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# 11429 - June 3, 1912 Wedding Gown and Silk Net Veil of GLADYS ELIZABETH ALDERMAN (married to Henry B. Deisel Jr. of the Deisel-Wemmer Cigar Co)!  With Photo!  NEAR MINT CONDITION!  Directly from the decendants comes this wedding gown and veil in NEAR MINT condition!  There are, of course, a few extremely minor issues, but it looks more like it's 1-year old, rather than 100+ years old!  Gladys Alderman was a member and national office of the D.A.R. (Daughters of the American Revolution), and her husband was owner of a renowned cigar company (http://www.bluffton.edu/courses/tlc/bushp/DWG-8.htm) which eventually became Wendy's/Arby's Corporation (!) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wendy%27s_Company.  So although there is no label inside this gown, it was obviously from a well-to-do family.  Surprisingly great condition of a heavy-weight silk satin and silk net long veil.  The issues (if you can even call it that) are:  The tiny rhinestones are missing in cuffed sleeves and down front (can be easily replaced or left as is), and there is one small dirt area of train (see photo), just extreme minor tearing of lining (usually Edwardian gowns have shredded linings!).   Even the lace trimmed silk net veil is in remarkable soft, supple condition (with just extreme minor dirt area you will barely see).  The wax headpiece isn't original to the outfit, but is available separately for sale... it's similar to what was worn (on her high hairdo), so if you want to complete the look...  The gown measures:  34" bust (remember, they had small backs back then, so best to be smaller than this... I'd suggest 30-32" tops), up to 24" waist (slightly empire!), up to 36" hips, 57" long from shoulder to hem in front, 78" long in back.  (NOTE:  if you have a talented dressmaker/seamstress they can revamp the back to make it fit you... takes creativity, but this gown is worth the effort!).

 

 

$ 1,485.  SOLD

 

 

SCREEN WORN GOWN 
in movie "DESIREE"

SOLD
 
 # 7405 - c. 1954 Worn in the Movie "DESIREE" Ivory and Gold "Regency" or "Jane Austen" Trained Appliqued Braid and Sequins Gown!   The "BEE" design is the symbol of the Bonaparte reign!  One of these original  movie gowns has already sold... this is the LAST one available.  Napoleon Bonaparte had 3 sisters. All three (OK, the actresses who played the three sisters, not the actual sisters... they are dead) carried the train of Napoleon's wife Josephine (that's Marlon Brando, by the way, not the real Napoleon and Merle Oberon as Josephine) in the Coronation Scene of the movie "Desiree".  You can see the gowns behind the robe train in the left photo below.  I've already sold the gown worn on the sister at the right... but this one was worn by either of the other two... which see to be identical (?).  As you can see, there would have been a red strap robe attached to each gown worn around the empire waistline.  The RIGHT photo below is a painting of the original coronation in 1804!!  So you can see the costume designer duplicated the gowns quite faithfully!  An exceptional ivory satin embroidered trained gowns in the Regency or Jane Austen style that so many brides love, so this could easily be your wedding gown!!  However, this is a vintage Hollywood movie memorabilia gown, so it will have "costume" detailing... but if you love the movie, "Desiree" as much as I do, getting married in one of the screen worn original gowns is a dream come true! This heavy satin gown with Bee motif measures:  34/35" bust, 29.5" underbust, up to 29" waist, up to 41" hips, 54" long from shoulder to hem in mid front (tulip hem),  71" long from shoulder to hem in back.  The gown snaps up the back with large snaps (a few need re-sewing... I'd do it, but you don't want me to!).  The gown is in Excellent condition with a few minor exceptions.  One or two tiny spots that can be easily covered with sequins or appliques, a few rhinestones and sequins missing (hardly worth mentioning), and the only real issue is that the wrist strap (at the back of the gown) to hold the train as you dance) has pulled a small hole in the fabric at mid back seam.  Again, a simple applique, bow, or anything else will cover in seconds.  The gown is just EXQUISITE!!!!!    Oh, by the way, Brando's Napoleon costume from "Desiree" sold for $73,800.  And Josephine's gown sold for $22,500!!     Also Listed in the Memorabilia and 1800-1840's Categories.  Final Sale Movie/Memorabilia piece.

$ 4,850.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2/4, perhaps 6
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 11493 - c. 1930's Bright White Spider Lace Trained Gown!  With Original Matching Satin Lace Belt with Rhinestone Buckle! Sleeves!  I was offered this gown to sell, and when it arrived it was a very dull tea color with discolorations.  It might have worked under dull lighting, but the discolorations were just making be upset... and I prefer to sell items in great condition.  SO... for the FIRST TIME, I decided to try to clean something.  I'm all thumbs, so it was scary.  However, this was a cotton lace, and I knew it was gonna hold up under my possible mistakes.  Well... it took 4 tries of soaking in Oxyclean to turn this dull discolored gown into the pristine white gown in original condition!!! It looks as new as it did in the 1930's.  I am a happy camper!  I doubt I will ever do this again, as I doubt I'll ever get a lace this strong.   Now if only I could turn back time on my body!!  The gown is lovely with a small train in back, nice seaming, great split fluttery cap sleeves, and hugs the body with the bias cut.  LOW square back with snaps at waist.  If you are like me and need to wear a bra, you can add a satin ribbon or something across the back at bra level.  Will still look great.  You obviously need to wear a slip under.  I just grabbed a black one to see the detail, but the look will change depending what color you wear under!  Dramatic black, romantic light blue, wedding white, skin colored nude, Edwardian pink, whatever! Excellent, near mint condition with one rhinestone missing in belt (I'll try to fix) and a miniscule "rust" mark at snap/hook back.  X-SMALL size.  

$ 845. SOLD

AUTHENTIC - DOWNTON ABBEY
Worn - By Lady Mary (S4/E9)


SOLD

 

# 7768 - c. 2013 DOWNTOWN ABBEY Worn Rhinestone Bandeau Tiara Worn by Lady Mary Crawley (Played by MICHELLE DOCKERY) in SEASON 4, Episode 9!  Tiara by Andrew Prince!  I know people who would kill to wear Lady Mary's tiara from her wedding to Matthew Crawley, but that tiara is $185,000, so not many of you can afford that one.  So... I have the next best thing. I have found TWO VERY RARE tiaras WORN ON THE SHOW!  Nearly impossible to find ANYTHING from Downton Abbey available for sale, but this one is THE tiara (or bandeau) worn by Lady Mary and comes with a COA confirming such from Season 4.  I went through all the shows to find the bandeau tiara, and VOILA!  No question!  Very clear!  This is a one-of-a-kind piece.  The tiaras were made for each specific character depending on their status, wealth and age.   Very substantial construction, very sparkly, brilliant cut Swarovski crystals.  The band is graduated... so one side is wide, and the other side is quite thin.  You can wear it either way (wide end on the right or on the left).  There is a thin brown velvet lining one side which blends in with your hair.  Imagine.. wearing something directly FROM Downton!!!  Makes me So happy to offer this to you!  I sincerely doubt I will find any other tiaras worn on the show (as this was told this was the last piece from the same place I found the other).... and believe me... I have been looking high and low.  The fact that I found these two is just... well.... CRAZY SHEAR LUCK!  Excellent condition like new!  Wonderful to own, or wear at your wedding or Flapper/Downton Abbey party.  Also Listed in the Wedding Category.   Final Sale Movie/Memorabilia piece.

$ 3,250.  SOLD  

 

AUTHENTIC - DOWNTON ABBEY
Worn - By Lady Rosamund (S4/ECS)

 SOLD
# 7764 - c. 2013 DOWNTOWN ABBEY Worn Rhinestone Tiara Worn by Lady Rosamund Painswick (nee Crawley), Sister of Lord Grantham (Played by Samantha Bond (ex. Miss Moneypenny in James Bond Movies) in SEASON 4, Christmas Special Episode!  Tiara by Andrew Prince!  I know people who would kill to wear Lady Mary's tiara from her wedding to Matthew Crawley, but that tiara is $185,000, so not many of you can afford that one.  So... I have the next best thing. RARE to find ANYTHING from Downton Abbey available for sale, but this one is THE tiara worn by Lady Roseamund and comes with a COA confirming such from Season 4.  I went through all the shows to find the tiara, and VOILA!  No question!  Very clear!  This is one-of-a-kind from what I can gather in reading up on the tiaras made for each specific character depending on their status, wealth and age.   Very substantial construction, very sparkly, brilliant cut Swarovski crystals.  The band is angled so it can be worn upright as a tiara or reversed to sit flat to the head.  Excellent condition like new!  Wonderful to own, or wear at your wedding or Flapper/Downton Abbey party.  Imagine.. wearing something directly FROM Downton!!! Makes me So happy to offer this to you!  Also Listed in the Memorabilia and Museum Category.   Final Sale Movie/Memorabilia piece.

$ 3,250.  SOLD


SOLD
# 4732 - c. 1891/92 2-piece Silk Crepe and China Silk Wedding Gown! Direct to you from a museum deaccession - still has the typed collection tag attached.   So if you want items good enough for a museum...... but don't think you are capable of a museum heist, best to shop on my website!  :)  Lovely thin silk crepe 2-piece gown with draping at bodice and skirt.   Hooks and eyes under the bodice draping.  The slightly puffy sleeves are actually different material of just a china silk.  NICE LOOK! Cotton lined so it's still in great condition with just a few minor issues.  Needs some hooks/eyes at collar and waist.  There is one small spot on back that can be tacked to be hidden in the folds. The crepe needs tacking down at the collar (it's pulled away from the lining).  There are a few spots on the silk ribbons (replace or cover), and one small rip at the skirt side (caught on something... not due to deterioration). I'm being picky.  The gown is really strong and in amazing condition for this age!  This gown will actually fit a human today if you are small enough (in other words, the 12" back measurement is acceptable - not that ultra narrow antique back width - it fits my back.  Measures: 31" bust, 25" underbust, 24/25" waist, 40" long from waist to hem in front, 46" long in back (perhaps).  I say "perhaps" because someone let out the hem at back to make a bit of a train.  You could hem back up for no train - and you might want to because there is a dirt line at that hemline (see photos).  Oh, I added the silk purple flowers at the waist... they don't come with it.  I just thought it looked nice.  Museum tag reads:  Mary Gardner. Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category

$ 465. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 5771 -  c. 1910 - 1920s Off-White Floral Embroidered Silk Fringed Oblong Shawl!  What a beauty! "White on White" silk floral embroidery on silk long shawl with long fringe on ends.  Excellent condition with just two tiny spots (see photos). Measures:  90" long x 25" wide... plus an additional 10" silk fringe on the ends, so total 110" long.  A great wedding shawl.  Nice weight.  Not one of the cheap new embroidered shawls you might see.   Also Listed in the 1850-1920's and Hats Category.

$ 565.   SOLD 
AUTHENTIC - Management Movie

SOLD
# 11607 - c. 2008 JENNIFER ANISTON Movie "Management" "Mom's" Goldtone and Rhinestone "Best" Necklace as worn by STEVE ZAHN  I am a sucker for romantic movies.  I am assuming I'm not the only one.  And in THIS movie, this necklace is a focal point shown in close-ups and in key scenes.  HOWEVER... you wonder WHY the director didn't do what was expected at the end of the movie (I won't say here).   I wanted SO much for this necklace to be highlighted in the final scene and yet you have to assume it was either cut, or something... because it's just plain wrong (sorry Stephen Belber).  ANYWAY... if you are the romantic type and you loved this movie... here's your chance to own THE necklace and either wear it yourself or do what should have been done... pass it on to a loved one!   It's supposed to be a gold and diamond necklace (worth $300 at the pawn shop in the movie), but there's no markings on the pendant so I can only call it a goldtone metal and rhinestone heart with 22" 10kt marked box chain.   Comes with the original box (with movie scenes written on it) and a COA from Premier Props.  I don't trust anyone, so I watched the movie to make sure it was legit.  I wish all memorabilia people would be truthful!!!!   Excellent condition (thought the box has wear).  Also Listed in the Wedding Category.   Final Sale Movie/Memorabilia piece.

$ 285.  SOLD


SOLD
#  5975 - c. 1966 PRISCILLA OF BOSTON "Babydoll" Trained Wedding Gown! Similar in Style to Priscilla Presley's Wedding Gown!  Yup... Elvis Presley would have married you in a gown just like this.... as Priscilla wore a very similar shape gown for their wedding in 1967.  Hers had long sleeves, and from what I read, she designed it herself (!).... this Priscilla of Boston gown is SO much nicer! :)  If you don't know Priscilla of Boston gowns, here's a brief history:  "By the 1950s, Priscilla of Boston gowns were the gold standard for brides with discerning taste, and they were carried in the top name department stores. The gowns were famous for their exquisite silks, hand beadwork, and French laces of Alençon, Chantilly, and Lyon.  In 1956, Kidder was granted the honor of designing the bridesmaid dresses for the wedding of Grace Kelly, and other high profile weddings would soon follow. In a span of six years, three Presidential daughters walked down the aisle in Priscilla of Boston gowns: Luci Johnson (1965), Julie Nixon (1968), and Tricia Nixon (1971). Tricia Nixon's sleeveless gown of lace appliqued to English net was a signature Priscilla of Boston feature that could be found in many of her gowns for decades to come. Tricia Nixon's gown was the subject of much interest, and there was even a story about it in Life magazine. In one way, Priscilla of Boston was to influence every bridal designer who was to follow in her footsteps: she was the first to promote her name and brand as a status symbol. There could be no Vera Wang had there not first been a Priscilla Kidder." I'm showing the gown on a size 6 mannequin but it measures:  up to 34" bust, up to 32" waist up to 43" hips, 57" long from shoulder to hem in front, 70" long in back.  There is a bow at the upper back that comes off if you prefer. If  you don't want a Vegas Elvis wedding, this gown will also double for a Regency era, Empire era,  "Jane Austen",  or "Napoleon and Josephine" look wedding!!  Simply divine. As the original bride wrote to me:  "I loved the weight of it, all interfaced to give a straight smooth drape of the silk under gown and the lace floated."  This gown was worn once before, but for a short wedding.  It was purchased in the Oval Room at Dayton's in Minneapolis, MN back in 1966. Excellent condition.

$ 645. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)

LEONA HELMSLEY's GOWN

SOLD
# 6598 - c. 1980's Black Silk Velvet Bodice Gown with Ivory Silk Chiffon Skirt and Sleeves from the Estate of Hotelier LEONA HELMSLEY!!  I purchased a few gowns from the legionary Leona Helmsley - "Queen of the Mean" as she was known.  With her wealth of over $5 Billion Dollars... she was one of the richest women in the world in the 1980's!  Most of her gowns were custom made for her “by Julia,” the personal, full-time seamstress who designed on dress forms in a separate wing of Helmsley’s opulent living quarters! Ah, that's the life, eh?? :)  This gown was quite different from the rest... perhaps designed specifically for a costume ball - as it has a "wench" feel.  Black silk velvet bodice with low neckline and silver beading faux corseting at front. Ivory silk chiffon full sleeves and 3 layers of chiffon skirt.  Back zip. The photos will explain everything.  Measures:  36" bust, 30" waist, up to 38" hips, 60" long from shoulder to hem.  Lined in silk under. Leona wouldn't have worn anything that wasn't special.. here's your chance to dress like a Billionaire... in her actual dress!!  Excellent condition.. just one tiny pull area in chiffon found just under zipper. Great for an interestingly different wedding gown as well!  Also Listed in the Memorabilia Category.

$ 1,285. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 8/10
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 11056 - c. 1930's Off White Crepe Gown with Sheer Overcoat Wedding Gown!  This gown came to me from the daughter of the woman who wore it down the aisle, so we know it was a wedding gown.  At this point, the daughter would like to make sure this gown is placed in the hands of the next loving family.    The dress measures  35" bust, up to 31" waist, up to 38 hips, 56" long from shoulder to hem in front, 62" long in back.   You can see it's quite ethereal.  The sleeves need elastic placed back in to the cuffs to puff as they did.  The overcoat closes at the front with small fabric buttons.  There are minor underarm stains and 4 tiny holes in the crepe net overcoat at the upper sleeve, mid back, and just below the waist.  (see photos).  One button is missing (not too much of a problem), and just extreme minor spots.   I'd have to give this a solid 7 out of 10... though most other people would give it an easy 8 (I'm very picky!).  My 10 is MINT condition (which is quite rare for any vintage piece).  

$ 465.  SOLD

 

Approx. - SIZE: 6/8
(check measurements above) 


SOLD
# 11660 -  Victorian THAYER, Boston Ivory Kid Leather High Button Boots!  Perhaps Wedding BootsThese boots came from the same estate as the rare Viault-Este/Thierry & Sons slippers above.... so they were likely expensive when new.   They are in great condition although missing a button on each boot.  Love the scalloped top of these boots that match the scalloped buttonhole tabs.  In great condition, thought they were worn.   Also listed in the Hats, and 1850-1920's sections.

$ 465.   SOLD



SOLD on LAYAWAY
# 7580 - c. 1881 FIELD LEITER & CO, Chicago Beaded and Brocaded Ivory Wedding Gown (Attributed to) ALICE SHELDON MATHEWS married to Mr. ALBERT BLAKE DICK of the AB Dick Company on January 25, 1881!  NEAR MINT CONDITION!  So first... Let's discuss Field Leiter & Co of Chicago.  A high end early department store (dry goods) where Mr. Selfridge began his career as a salesman and rose up the ranks to President just prior to opening his fine establishment in London (because Marshall Fields refused to add his name to theirs!) As it's written in a book about Mr. Selfridge, "By 1877, Bertha had only to step over to Field & Leiter to buy a new gown by WORTH, the store's Paris agent having bought twelve models for Chicago's first private orders from the great man."  So although I doubt this gown is a Worth original, that's the quality that was sold at Field Leiter & Co!   OK... So... now who was Albert Blake (A.B.) Dick? A major American manufacturer of copy machines and office supplies in the late 19th Century and the 20th Century.  Mr. Dick purchased the patent from his friend Thomas Edison.   So was he wealthy???  YUP!  This gown came from an auction lot at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers in Chicago in the late 1980's.  Incredibly the buyer purchased this  wedding gown at the auction.  When they went to the cashier to pay, they were told that a steamer trunk came with the lot.  That trunk was labeled A.B. Dick!  Mr. Dick lived in Lake Forest, IL (the wealthy town just north of Chicago) and is buried in Chicago.  From the label which needs to be dated to January 1881 or prior (as that was the date that Field Leiter & Co merged into Marshall Fields & Co) and the fact that AB Dick married his first wife, the wealthy Alice S. Mathews on January 25, 1881, it is presumed that this is the wedding gown from that wedding.  Alice's father was Charles H. Mathews who had amassed a fortune and had become the richest man in Galesburg, IL at the time of his death in 1883.  So Alice could afford the very best in wedding gowns!  Alice passed away in 1885 and AB Dick married Alice's sister (!) Mary Henrietta Mathews in 1892.  SO... the second wife was the sister of the first wife which is WHY you will find this wedding gown well preserved.   And indeed it is... in NEAR MINT CONDITION!  It's a one-piece ivory silk brocade gown with long ruffle edged train, bustle back, "v" attached bodice, beaded netting adorning bodice and sleeves, "leaf" patter brocade, ribbons down front, low cut bodice with chiffon interior, bust pads(!) inside for enhancement.  Just fantastic!  The only issues to report are small stains down the front plain skirt panel (very likely from the water of the bouquet) and one tiny "L" tear at the back (might have caught her gown on a chair).  Measures:  30" bust, 23" waist, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 84" in back. I can't absolutely confirm that this is Alice's wedding gown, but all my research leads to that fact!  I guarantee it's from the AB Dick family trunk! Also Listed in the Museum and 1850-1920s Categories.  

$ 4,750.  SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE 000 (due to small Victorian back and ribcage)
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 369b - Victorian/Edwardian Lace and Silk Flowers Ribbonwork Wedding Garters!  In nearly mint condition...likely only worn once for a wedding.  Lovely!  The elastic is likely "dead", but I'm not gonna try pulling it to test it... I want to keep these are pristine as they are.   I love the fact that the Victorian women wore such elaborate stockings and garters even though they were NOT to be seen!  However... these would be seen as they are likely wedding garters... therefore.... yup... hello wedding night! :)     Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category.  

$ 185.  SOLD

 


SOLD
# 369a - Victorian Lace Wedding Stockings from Wanamakers!  In nearly mint condition...likely only worn once for a wedding.  Lovely!  Lace insets on both stockings on front.  Wanamaker and 9 1/2 size on the toe.  Ivory color silk.  I love the fact that the Victorian women wore such elaborate (and often colorful) stockings even though they were NOT to be seen!  Ah, the good ole days! :)    However... these would be seen as they are likely wedding gstockings... therefore.... yup... hello wedding night! :)       Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category.  

$ 185.  SOLD

 



SOLD
#5968 - c. 1930's The Liberty Shop, New Orleans, LA Magnificent Satin Rhinestone and Beaded Trained Gown with Original Matching Belt!  I nearly fell off my chair when photos of this gown were send to me!!!  It was SO spectacular that I was afraid that when it arrived in the mail that it wasn't going to be an actual 1930s gown.... but I'm happy to report... it is!!!!  As fantastic as any gown you would have seen on the silver screen movie stars of the era.  There is limited information I've found on The Liberty Shop, 2220 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, but it was founded by two Southern ladies Mrs. E.M. Ragan and Miss Emily Guelton in 1920, and headquartered in a mansion that still stands (currently a bridal shop).  In the 20's and 30's "Customers were required to make appointments in advance and when they arrived sent their cards via a parlor maid. They were shown to rosewood sofas and chairs in the beautifully appointed rooms with the elaborate cornices, tall pier glasses, mantelpieces and glittering crystal chandeliers."   The shop imported gowns (that usually means from Paris) as well as designed and created their own couture creations for the wealthy patrons and elaborate gowns and costumes for Mardi Gras parties! I even found Mrs. E.M. Ragan on a passenger list on the famed Cunard oceanliner Aquitania (New York Times dated August 22, 1924) traveling from Southampton, England and Cherbourg, France!  Probably returning from France with her imported gowns!! :)   Both women passed away in the late 1930's, early 1940's and the shop continued under other proprietors in the same tradition, with the same painstaking attention to detail.  I doubt this was originally a wedding gown, but it it certainly could be, so it's included in this wedding section for those of you who have been WAITING for the gown that was going to WOW!!  Can't get much more WOW than this!!!!  There are minor spots mostly at the hemline, and a few minor ones here and there, but in the evening light you should be wearing this gown, they will hardly be an issue.  Measures up to a 29" waist (tight, but can squeeze into that) though the inner waistband is 26" (you don't need to use that), up to 37" hips. Bust is hard to measure as the back is open... but you can see it fits 35" bust mannequin... perhaps a bit larger as well.  Yes, the
price is high... because I don't think in my life I will ever find another 1930s gown this special.... and being an import shop, who knows... could be from one of the top Parisian designers of the time!!!  We'll never know. :(  Also Listed in the Museum and 1930s-Today Categories. 

$ 15,000. SOLD  

Approx. - SIZE 6, small 8
(check measurements above


SOLD
# 4002 - c. 1940's Crown Shaped Wax Wedding Headpiece! This is an item you will rarely find at all,  let alone find in such nice condition!  Many headpieces of this type were improperly stored and suffered from the heat of the attic.  This gorgeous floral ring looks like a crown when set on top of the head.  It has a stem of 3 wax flowers with a pearlized "bud" at the tip. Generally a veil was attached to your hair and this ring was placed on top. The strong ring itself measures 5.5" in circumference, the flower stems are about 2.5" high, and there are 23 of them which create the floral crown.  There may be a petal missing but it is mainly all intact an Excellent.  The color is an antique white with a pearlized finish.  It will look a lot better on you as you probably don't have plastic molded hair!

$ 465. SOLD


 SOLD on LAYAWAY
# 5877 - c. 1880 M.A. CONNELLY, 7 East 16th Street, New York Ivory Silk Satin Bustle Wedding Gown Ensemble!  With Wax Headpiece, Bustle Cage, 2 Petticoats, New Bustle Pad and Veil!  Museum Quality Piece! WEARABLE SIZE! Oh yeah....SO nice for me when these magnificent pieces just come to me from long-time collectors!!  So they are "new to the market" from years of storage. I must confess, I knew just by looking at this gown that it was special, but it wasn't until I researched "M.A. Connelly" that I found just how special!  Sure, there is one M.A. Connelly gown in the Boston Museum of Fine Art, but it's the discovery that our 19th President, Rutherford B. Hayes' wife, Lucy Hayes wore a gold damask and cream satin gown to the White House New Year’s reception in 1880!!!!  Yup!  And not only that, but this was her dressmaker of choice (per Feb. 2009 issue of "Past Times", a publication produced by the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center).  The article reads:  "In January 1880, 'Mrs. R.B. Hayes' went shopping at M.A. Connelly in New York.  There she ordered three new gowns for White House functions.  The receipt shows Lucy paid $300 for a 'green striped velvet' dress, $225 for a 'black brocade velvet' dress, $350 for a 'white brocade satin' dress, $12 for a pair of corsets and $49.50 for lace.  Totaling $936.50 which would be $21,000 today. More information from M.A. Connelly is that she moved her business to 331 5th Ave. sometime between 1880-1892, and according to the NYC Real Estate Records of Dec 4th, 1897, she moved her dressmaking and importer business to 9 West 34th Street. SO.... This gown is exactly at what it would have cost new in 1880 at $350 (1880 price)! And then you are getting the additional ensemble pieces for free!! And the condition is just about that good... nearly like new.  There are a few slight issues (likely replaced waistband, but that's just about the only issue!  Even a WEARABLE size! Measures: 34" bust, 25" waist, 12.5" across back, 40" long skirt from waist to hem, 76" long in back. I can get the bodice on me at size 4/6, so the back isn't too small as are most of these Victorian gowns. I could detail all the details, but I've written too much already, so the photos will tell you all you need to know.  Note: there is a lace trimmed veil that will come with this that isn't original but matches beautifully. If you want a Victorian Wedding Gown, look no further!  Good enough for the US President's wife on New Years Eve!! Also Listed in the Museum and 1850-1930s Categories. 

$ 7,850. SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE 2/4
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 7653 - c. 1910 Edwardian White Lawn Dress with Embroidery and Open Lace! LARGER SIZE When I say "larger size" for antique dresses or gowns, that means large enough for a human female of today to wear it!  It doesn't mean that I'll calling us "fat" or "large"... but we ARE much larger than the women (and men!) of yesteryear... especially in the shoulder area.  Anyway, now that you aren't offended... I always look for antique gorgeous pieces that you can actually wear... even though they are only to be worn gently.  So if you want to wear for your wedding, wear it down the aisle and for photos, and then change to another dress for the reception so you can "move".  Some of these Edwardian whites are all lace, some are embroidered on cotton or gauze, and some (like this one) are embroidered on a very fine cotton muslin (which is a loosely woven cotton).  Love the open work lace on short sleeves and neckline.  Very airy with pretty embroidered flowers.  I added the pink satin at waist (doesn't come with it), just buy a ribbon of your color choice, or white if you prefer.  As you see, you will need to wear a slip under.  These are so easy to make, you can have a few in different colors for different looks.   Just a simple tube shape with ribbon straps. Done!  Tiny buttons up back. Measures:  up to 40" bust, up o 32" waist, up to 46" hips, 58" long from shoulder to hem (if you are taller, you can show some slip at the hem so this looks more like a tunic.  Fairly long-waisted at 17" from shoulder to waist.  Excellent condition with just extreme minor pulling of muslin (see photos). 

$ 895.  SOLD 

Approx. - SIZE 10
(check measurements above)

SOLD
# 6949 - c. 1905 Exceptional White Irish Crochet Trained Skirt!  WEARABLE SIZE!   Irish Crochet.... there is really no lace better (at least that's MY opinion!).   The prices (as you probably know) have skyrocketed for Irish Crochet lace, and the gowns and skirts especially. You will need to wear a slip under, or get a few made in various colors to give the skirt lots of different looks.  Imagine over nude, or white, or pastel, or black!  Whatever you love!  The lace includes small roses, canterbury bells on vines, large multi-layered 3-D petal flowers and circular inserts of knotted net lace. LOVE the floral hemline Ecru silk waistband.  Measures:  a WEARABLE 27" waist, 40" long in front, 50" long in back. Excellent condition.   

$ 2,250.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
# 11004 - c. 1907-1910 Elaborate White Cutwork and Mixed Lace and Embroidered Lawn Dress!   These white cotton or linen dresses of the Edwardian era were called lawn dresses, or lingerie dresses, or "whites"... and probably lots of other names as well. Basically they were the summer day dresses and could be worn with a variety of colored slips/linings.  Usually pink or light blue were the most popular, but you can make a statement with black, nude or just about any other color under you would like!  Please just wear SOMETHING under!! :)   This dress has a bit of the pigeon front (or "monobosom" that was so popular in the early 1900's.... and made popular in the paintings and drawings of "The Gibson Girl" with her hair piled high on her head. If you don't like the pigeon front, you can always easily make some quick easy tucks and it will fit your bust in a more modern look.  Just please baste anything you might do... so the dress can be returned to its original shape for the next person who might inherit it.  Remember, we are just passing through time.  This dress will outlive most of us if treated with respect!!    Measures: up to 37" bust (due to pigeon), up to 26" slightly empire waist (so measure yourself under your breasts or ribcage), up to 39" hips, 55" long in front from shoulder to hem, 58" long in back.  Excellent condition!!  Just 2 slight spots at the very hemline and one opening of the last in the back waist (easy fix... see photos).  Cute little buttons at back to close.   One of the Good Ones... easy to wear 1/2 sleeves and doesn't have the constricting high neck.  Whoo Whoo!   

$ 785. SOLD 

Approx. - SIZE: 2/4
(check measurements above) 


SOLD
# 7436 - c. 1912 White Cotton Batiste Gauze Fishtail Trained Gown!  LARGER SIZE! Edwardian gown. Titanic Gown.  This gown has lots of possible names, including Gorgeous Gown! :)  This gown can also double for a Regency Era Gown.  The uniqueness of this gown is in the back more than the front, so PLEASE look at the additional photos to see the draped sides which gather at the lower back in an oval shape creating a fishtail train!  There are tiny silk flowers at that oval, as well as on the front bodice.  The edges and yoke are tatted lace.  Hooks at back.  Condition is close to Excellent as there is one small yellow spot at the yoke (see photo), and there are wax flowers which will hide a previous extra gather (I think to hide a spot) on the side drapes... but I gotta say... looks even better because of this!! :)   The wax flowers are removed and will be shipped with the dress, so there will be no chance they will melt in the mail onto the dress.  EXTREMELY wearable... very strong material!!  And in a GOOD SIZE!   Measures:  up to 38-40" bust, up to 31" waist (empire), 17" across the back between armseams, 52" long from shoulder to hem, 62" long in back.  SO... this is for a SHORT gal if you want it to reach the ground at front.   OR you can add lace or another longer layer under if you are taller.  Note:  the pink sash doesn't come with the gown, just get yourself a ribbon in any color you like!  Also Listed in the 1850-1930s Category.

$ 695.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 12ish SHORT
(check measurements above)


[SOLD
#5492 - c. 1930's Wedding Gown of White Lace Created from a c. 1905 era Gown!   Let me explain.   This was originally a c. 1905 white lace gown, which some seamstress back in the 1930s redesigned into a wedding gown!  So the lace is from 1905, the design is 1930s.  The white slip under is a white rayon and could be newer than the 30s, so this gown has quite a unique history.  I only wish I knew the exact provenance. This gown is in near mint condition.  There was one tiny repair found along the hemline (see photo), though you'd never see it if I didn't show you.  There are extremely minor lace legbreaks near the front yoke (easily fixed with a few stitches).  You can see that the "v" neckline was created by turning some of the lace under, so they gown would look especially nice with typical 1930s/1940s era rhinestone or other dressclips (or ornaments).  Has a so sweet little tiny white bow at front waist!!! CUTE!!  As you can see, the white rayon slip is shorter than the gown, so you get to see the lace detail.  Certainly if you prefer the slip match the length of the gown, you can add some additional material under. Side snap closure. Measures: 32/33" bust, up to 24" waist, up to 34" hips, 58" long from shoulder to hem in front, and 76" long in the back. NOTE: being a 1930s gown, these are usually hard to wiggle into due to the side openings, so just a note so you have bridesmaids ready and able!!  Also Listed in the 1930-Today Section.

$ 2,345. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above) 


 SOLD on LAYAWAY 
#7042 - Dated October 5, 1880 Complete Beaded Victorian Wedding Gown Outfit with Original Wedding License and Invitations and Complete Accessories with Provenance!  Includes Shoes, Stockings, Gloves, Photos, Books, Papers, Silver Spoon, Wax Headpiece, Wax Ornaments, and Large Framed Portrait of the Bride, Corrie Emma Lacy who wedded Dr. Lee Herbert Smith in Buffalo, New York. I've never seen a more complete wedding outfit!  And it's not like this is just a run-of-the-mill bride or gown.  Nope, this bride's genealogy can be quickly traced back to the Huguenots in France and specifically to the family of Pierre Fauconnier (his family dating back to the 11th Century at least, and which is said to be "the most ancient and honorable in France). Corrie Emma Lacy (the child of Clark B. Lacy and Emma Sleeper) was born in Buffalo on Dec. 5, 1858 and had one child, Herbert Lacy, born on May 10, 1886.  Her husband, Dr. Lee H. Smith graduated from the medical dept. of the University of Buffalo in 1877, and from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, NYC in 1881 and was the vice-president of the World's Dispensary Medical Association. Obviously the families were wealthy, as this gorgeous white beaded, golden brocaded 2-piece gown will attest.  The gown is in Excellent condition with just the most minor bead loss.  The wax ornaments you see on the front bodice are separate, but were worn on the gown as per the bride's portrait.  All the other accessories are included... the ivory wedding slippers, the white gloves, the silk stockings and the wax headpiece, along with photographs, papers, books, a silver spoon, the original wedding invitations and wedding license as well as the large framed portrait of the bride!  Fabulous for a wedding museum!!!  The only thing missing is the lacings for the back of the bodice (obviously new lacings can be found).  The size of the gown is tiny and short... too tiny for my mannequin (although I photoshopped the back in one photo so you can see how it will look when correctly mounted).    Shipping costs will be extra due to the large Framed Portrait.

$ 5,850.   SOLD on LAYAWAY 

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)
 


SOLD on LAYAWAY 
# 4249 - c. 1910 Edwardian Off-White Muslin Lawn Dress with Embroidery, Filet Lace and Crochet Balls with Sailor Back!  WEARABLE SIZE Please look at the close-up photos of this dress... you really can't see all the detail in the tiny photo at left.  I adore little crochet balls on Edwardian gowns... and this is Loaded!  I counted.  132 crochet balls!!!  They are ALL there. None missing that I can find.  Now look at the back... the great "sailor" collar back!  This is one of those Edwardian lawn dresses that doesn't need a waistband (yeah!)... it's just ph so pretty as it is. Look at the embroidery between the lace inserts.  And the great square neckline to be comfortable and to show off your pearls if you want. Measures:  up to 36" bust, up to 29" waist (slight empire), up to 43" hips, 58" long from shoulder to hem in front, 60" in back.  Buttons up back.  You will see there is a black velvet ribbon around the hemline.  I'm guessing it's not original, but looks great, so you can decide whether to keep or not.  Excellent condition with just a very few very minor leg breaks in the lace.  Hardly worth mentioning.   Please note this is an off-white and sheer... you will need a slip under.  These are so easy to make.  Just a simple tube shape with ribbon straps. Done!     Also Listed in the 1850-1930s Section.

$ 685.  SOLD on LAYAWAY 

Approx. - SIZE 6/small 8

 


SOLD
# 6630 - c. 1912 White Embroidered Lace Net Slight Trained Wedding Gown!  I say wedding gown only because that is what we would think today as it has a slight train, but it could just have been a fancy summer evening dress... quite fashionable.  As it buttons up the back, it wasn't a "stay-at-home" gown.... those would open at the front.  Whatever event she bought it for..... I don't think she ever wore it!  This is SO pristine, still white... and I only found two of the tiniest breaks in the netting.... which I dare you to find!  Glorious!!!!!  It looks so tiny, but the netting has some stretch to it, so it will fit a small woman today... Measures: up to 33" bust, up to 26" empire waist, up to 42" hips, 60" long from shoulder to hem in front, 69" long in back.  LOVE the tiny ecru satin ribbon that edges the double flounce short sleeves and the scoop neckline.   Add a matching ribbon at the empire waistline and perhaps a bow in the back.... that's how I'm assuming it was worn, but you don't need a ribbon if you don't want one.... but I WOULD suggest a slip! :) I show on the dark dressform so you can see the detail... but as you see, if you wear a light slip under, it looks more ethereal.  If you wear a darker color under, you will see more of the lacy detail.  Change it up!  Wear white or nude under for your wedding ceremony and change to a pink/light blue/or bolder color slip under for your reception!   OR wear for a fabulous modern evening with a BLACK slip under.  POP!  GLORIOUS!  NEAR MINT CONDITION!   Also Listed in the 1850-1930s Section.

$ 1,245. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2/4
(check measurements above)


SOLD on LAYAWAY
# 7520 - c. late 1880's Ivory Silk Bustle Wedding Gown with Faux Pearl Trim!  With Additional Sleeves! This is one of those one-piece gowns that look like 2-pieces.  The trained bustle is attached to the bodice and the skirt is attached to the bodice as well.  This one COULD be easily turned into 2 pieces as the train could be attached to the back of the skirt... and the bodice has a lovely completely finished "tail".  It MAY originally have been 2 pieces as the back bodice would look equally beautiful OVER the bustle (see photos to explain.. I hope).  The skirt back is stiff netting... the silk stops at the sides.   The sleeves are slightly puffed, the neckline is square and trimmed in large faux pearls.  The front is corseted and there is a faux pearl trim around the waist.  Ruffled hemline inside and out.  There is a bit of extra material with the gown if you need it!  It can be used to cover the few stains with appliques (see photos).  Many of the pearls are missing.  The cord is missing for the corset front.  One cuff has no design (the other has remnants to see what was there).  So... even though this gown's material is quite strong and mostly clean, there are a few stains and will need help to restore embellishments.  Measures:  30" bust, 24" waist, 24.5" ribcage, 38" long from waist to hem in front, 48" long in back, 10" across narrow back.   

$ 425.  
SOLD on LAYAWAY  

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 7484 - c. 1960's TEAL TRAINA White Ribbon Lace Mod Mini Dress! Ever wonder what the wealthy girls wore in the 1960s (when I was just coming of age, and would have killed for something this beautiful!  Instead, I dressed in hand-me-downs from our cousins (though I gotta say that I enjoyed used clothing even then!).  White lace was very popular in the mid-to-late 1960s, and this is the ultimate!  The lace is very heavy floral design (like a very heavy and large Irish Crochet).  There is a white lining under so not to worry about the open lacework.  The wide waist, nehru collar, buttons and front pieces are a heavyweight white faille. It's possible that someone just washed this dress as it's VERY VERY clean (two teeny pinhead spots - see photos).  Front white metal zipper allows for the back of the dress to be as beautiful as the front... and makes it suitable for a wedding dress as well!  Measures:  34/35" bust, 24/25" waist, up to 41" hips, 34" long from shoulder to hem.

$ 965.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4 with small waist
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#5934 - c. 1900 Brussels Lace Trained Skirt!  NEAR MINT CONDITION! I'm hoping you have a blouse to wear with this skirt, because it's glorious!  If you are really modern, just wear a catsuit under.  Start a new trend on the runway. Guaranteed to get you photographed! :)  If you are slightly more traditional, wear over a simple petticoat of white, black, pink, light blue, or whatever color (each color will give a totally different look!).  The final two photographs I show are over an ecru slip (doesn't come with it).  Would make a lovely wedding gown skirt with a simple bustier bodice (oh, and slip of course!). Near Mint condition (I'd say Mint, but I NEVER say Mint.  Nothing is Mint) !!  Measures:  25/26" waist, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 56" long in back. Gorgeous textile!!  

$ 1,745. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6
(check measurements above) 


SOLD
#6987 - RARE c. 1940/1941 CEIL CHAPMAN "A Chapman Original" Ivory Chiffon Evening Gown! You know Ceil Chapman, right? Dressmaker popular with the 1950s Hollywood elite, and noted as a favorite by Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Deborah Kerr, etc., etc.  Well, the earliest Ceil Chapman pieces have the "Ceil Chapman Original" label... and this one includes the US Patent Application, so it's gotta be one of the earliest!!  I've only had three of these early Ceil Chapman Original gowns... they aren't easy to find... and of all, this is the nicest! This silk chiffon gown has a ruched bodice, and is embellished in pearl white bugle beads that adorn the bodice, straps and create a wide waistband design. The skirt is flowing and will glide as you walk! Lined in silk, has side metal zipper. There are minor condition issues.. two tiny spots inside the draping at the upper skirt (see photo), beads are mostly all intact (a few missing on one strap see photo), and a bit of messiness at back zipper near waist (see photo). The only issue that is of any consequence to the picky, is that there is a shadow spot on one side of the bust (see photo).  It will only be seen under bright lights.  But all in all, this is in remarkable condition for a light colored, chiffon gown! And a VERY RARE Ceil Chapman! Measures: 32" bust, 26" waist.  Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category. 

$ 1,685.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 6847- c. 1900 Net Lace Trained Skirt!  Never Worn!  Never Made!  I'll say it again... never MADE!  This "skirt" is actually a flat piece of appliqued, embroidered and Irish Crochet insert lace in a trained skirt shape.  It would have been purchased at a dry goods shoppe to make a skirt.  I've seen lace and beaded pieces which were sold to add to a skirt, but never a whole skirt!!  It has a simple waistband that would have been gathered at the back...but made to fit your waist... anywhere up to 40" waist!!!!  The skirt is 44" long from waist to hem in front (so can be shortened to your height) and  I'm hoping you have a white lace blouse to wear with this skirt, because it's glorious!  If you are really modern, just wear a catsuit under.  Start a new trend on the runway. Guaranteed to get you photographed! :)  If you are slightly more traditional, wear over a simple petticoat of white, black, pink, light blue, or whatever color (each color will give a totally different look!).  Would make a lovely wedding gown skirt with a simple bustier bodice (oh, and slip of course!). Excellent condition with just a few extremely minor and easily fixed leg breaks.  If you look at the photos, you will see that there are 3 appliques attached to the skirt that are designed to be cut off and used on a bodice to match the lace!!!!  You then sew up the back seam over the tape edge so you only see lace all around!  Measures:  up to 40" waist, 44" long from waist to hem in front, 58" long in back. Gorgeous textile!!    

$ 1,485.  
SOLD

Approx. - SIZE - ANY SIZE UP TO 40" WAIST!
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
# 7540 - c. 1910 Irish Crochet Lace Gown!  If the Downton Abbey gals were getting married in 1910 rather than 1920, this would likely be the gown they would have chosen! Breathtaking design... one of the best I've had the pleasure to sell.  Please look at the close up photos to see the detailing.  I show it over a black slip so you can see the detail easier, and also show with just a white half slip so you can see how it will look with a nude or white slip under.  You would also find pink or light blue under from that era.  Irish Crochet gowns are highly prized and rare to find in near pristine condition, ready to wear, and in a large enough (and tall enough) size for a modern human.  There are hanging crochet balls at the neckline, at the cuffs and here and there throughout the gown. Crochet buttons up the back.  Irish Crochet gowns are mesmerizing in person with all the detail.  There is slight stretch in the lace, but basically will fit: Up to 35" bust, up to 29" waist, up to 42" hips, 65" long from shoulder to hem in front and back.  If that is too long for you, it will pool as you see in the photos (nice!), but will look equally wonderful if you are tall.  This mannequin is a 32" bust, 24" waist, 35" hips, and it looks great on her as well. 3/4 length sleeves. Near Mint condition... ready to wear (you just need a slip).  
 

$ 4,250.   SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2-6 TALL
(check measurements above)

 


NO LONGER AVAILABLE
# 5168 - c. 1940's Wedding Gown (Trained) of White Rayon Satin!  For those of you who are planning your 1940s WWII themed wedding (and I know this is quite popular, especially when you get to see your soon-to-be husband wearing those incredibly sexy uniform whites... you know, like Richard Gere in "An Officer and a Gentleman").  You'll fall in love with him all over again as you walk down the aisle! This gown is the perfect simple choice.  However, I have to say that it's not in perfect condition. There is an underarm stain under one arm (see photo) and marks on the skirt train (see photo) and hardly seen (but there) all-over satin bruises (see photos for some examples).  Side snaps need a bit of work, but this is a strong, wearable gown for a price that will allow you to spend your money on more important things!  Like your first house!! The bodice is gathered with slightly puffy sleeves, "v" neckline and the skirt has a finger loop under to hold up or hook up the train for the reception. Measures: 32/33" bust, up to 27" waist, 12" across the back, 52" long from shoulder to hem in front, 96" long in back. Don't dress without a bridesmaid! As it's one of those side snap dresses, it's hard to wiggle in and out of, so you may need a friend to help!!

$ 265.  NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Approx. - SIZE 2/4 (smallish across back)
(check measurements above)


SOLD
# 5860 - c. 1970's ALBERT NIPON Cotton White Off-the-Shoulder "Peasant" Gown! Never Worn!  Original Tag!  This poor gown has been waiting patiently since the 1970s for someone to love her... and wear her! As you can see... she's fairly sheer so will need you to wear a slip under, but so pretty.  Meant to be worn just off the shoulder.  Very flowy (is that a word??).  Would work for a simple summer wedding gown on the beach or garden.  Or can be worn for any summer event where you want to look like the front cover of a romance novel!! :)  Labeled size 8, but it's elastic at the shoulder and the waist, so can fit a few sizes.   The sash will help to pull in for a smaller gal.  Shown on a size 35" bust, 25" waist, 36" mannequin.  Excellent condition. The sash ribbon comes with it and is original.  Measures: 42" long from waist to hem. 


$ 495.  
SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2-6 TALLISH
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
# 11122 - c. 1905 Off White Silk/Linen Fancy Lace 2-piece "Graduation" Gown! I figure this was one of the very fancy, elaborate graduation gowns from the Gibson Girl era.  But this was owned by one of the very wealthy gals, as it came from an estate with some of the most gorgeous Paris Victorian and Gibson era bodices (soon to go up!).  Meanwhile... this should make your knees weak if you, like me, love very lacy girly pieces!!Sadly, unless you are tiny, it won't fit you.  But Excellent condition and would be wearable if!  Measures:  23" waist, 41.5" long from waist to hem in front, and 43.5" long in back.  As the bust is a full pigeon front it's impossible to measure, so go by the waist size.   Closes with hooks at the back.  I call it silk/linen blend. I have no idea if that's true, but that's what it feels like.  Check out all the close up photos of the details.   I show over a slip (doesn't come with it), so you will need to wear something under (you can see my slip is shorter than the skirt... so you can see how the lace will look with white under, or nude under.


$ 945.  
SOLD 

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
#5165 - c. 1950's Sheer Wedding Gown Complete with Original Attached Ruffled Underskirt, Original Satin Slip, Original Hoop Petticoat, Original Satin Twisted Headpiece with Wax Flowers and Veil, Original Sheer Gauntlet Gloves and Huge Satin Padded Hanger! As you can see, this is a lovely complete bridal ensemble. Look at the additional photos to also see the full satin slip that is under the sheer gown.  The gloves are lying on the ground in front. The gown is a very sheer material that is something like an organdy.  As I hope you can see, the bodice has a very sheer yoke (goes up to the high rounded neckline) and then the lace give it a sweetheart neckline look.  Small cap lace sleeves and lace band around waist.  Gathered full skirt with front satin bow near hemline. Under the sheer skirt are layers of ruffles with a bit of lace above!  Closes with 38 satin buttons at back.  This is worn over a strapless satin slip with back metal zipper.  Comes with the original hooped slip and twisted satin headpiece with wax flowers both which could be worn, and with the extra padded satin hanger... those three pieces alone are worth about $200!  This is a wonderful complete wedding ensemble for display.. as it's a bit small for wear, and has a few condition issues. The lace needs to be reseamed at side waist (I had to open that seam to display and I don't have the sewing machine to reclose), there are minor underarm stains, there is a spot at the hemline (see photo) and a strange area to back train that will need professional steaming (strangely wrinkled (see photo).  The bodice lace isn't fragile due to age, just  fragile in it's sheerness. The satin slip has a spot on upper front hip (unseen when worn). Measures a small 31" bust, 22" waist, 58" long from shoulder to hem in front, 95" long in back. Great for a wedding collector!  

$ 485. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#6988 - c. early 1920's Original Openwork Lace and Faux Pearl Cloche!   Well... this is certainly unique!  I've seen quite a few lace lingerie cloches, and I've seen fancy sequin and beaded cloches, but never before have I seen something quite like this.  Looks to be handmade lace studded with faux pearls all over.  All in an off-white hue with old pearls. If you worry about your head size (as these things are often called headache cloches for a reason.. many are small and tight)... THIS ONE is LARGE!  If you have lots of hair to pin up inside or if you have a large head.. this is the one for you.  This is shown on my 23" head mannequin (the largest I have) and it's still too large for her.  If you have a normal size head with little hair, you will have to make smaller or stuff with fake hair.... OR get lots of compliments so you head will swell!! :)Wear for evening or wedding!   Excellent condition.

$ 485. SOLD

 

SOLD
# 5976 - c. 1932 Simple Ivory Rayon Satin Wedding Gown!   This was the date given to me by the Granddaughter of the woman who wore this gown... so I guess that's the date!  The gown is lovely, but not perfect, so the price is great!!  There are light satin bruises here and there, the lace inserts are tearing and will need to be replaced (easy for a seamstress with new lace), and the back train probably had a lace trim at some point, but it's all gown now, so the back hem is raw... you can either hem up (though by doing that the sides of the gown are longer than the back), or add back some lace, or anything you'd like... go crazy with a pastel color or whatever you might do for creativity points! :)   You can wear with or without a belt (I show with a simple rhinestone belt that doesn't come with it).    It's a smallish size due to the bust which Measures:  31/32" bust, up to 30" waist, up to 42" hips, 54" long from shoulder to hem in front and as long as you want in back... it's 60" long at the sides.   There is one tiny pinhead hole in the side skirt and that's all I can find for any damage.  So... it's a great basic piece for you to do as you want!!   Oh, and I'm told the sleeves aren't too tight to wear.   

$ 435. SOLD  

Approx. - SIZE: 2/4
(check measurements above) 

 


SOLD
# 4563 - c. 1990's White Trained Wedding Gown with Floral Shoulders and Tulip Sash! I wish I could tell you exactly what the material is, but it's probably a blend and I'm not that savvy.  Not ultra expensive, but not horribly cheap.  Somewhere in the middle range.  Feels silky and flows nicely.  But well above average in styling for those of you who don't want all the frilliness but still want a "princess" gown.  Just like Goldilocks... this one is "just right"!  Flattering underbust detailing and wonderful pearl center flowers cover the straps and mid back.  The low "u" back gives you exactly what you want walking down the aisle. There are "tulip" shaped tails at the back and short train.  Excellent condition. Measures:  36" bust, 32" underbust, waist and hips free, 60" long from shoulder to hem in front, 75" long in back.

$ 395.  SOLD 

Approx. - SIZE 6/8
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
#5154 - c. 1920's Wedding Dress of Silk Satin and Lace with Panniers!  Platinum Gray Color!  Yes, I've seen quite a few of these 1920's pannier wedding dresses in my years of collecting and selling.  But this one is particularly pretty with the original silk and wax flowers and streamers and matching silk lace "scarves" front and back!  Frankly it's quite rare to find these pannier wedding dresses in great condition!  Usually you find them with all sorts of condition issues... but this is in Excellent condition!  Even the underarms are perfect (so rare for these!!).  The only issue I've found is one of the ribbons was replaced on one of the panniers (the inner wired hoops at side hips). Hardly worth mentioning.  And a smidge of a spot (likely a spot from the wax flowers) on the front waist above the flower which can easily be hidden with a bit of additional flowers.  Easy!! Otherwise it's wearable for your wedding!!  (Note: you will see photos with a veil, but it doesn't come with it).  Measures: up to 35/36" bust, up to 30" waist, 34" at 3" below waist (at the seamline), 40-47" long from shoulder to hem. Shown on a size 2 mannequin with 33" bust, 24" waist, 33" hips and looks great on her as well.  NOTE:  no closures, just goes on over the head, so it takes a bit of wiggling to get on/off.  Don't try it unless you have a friend to help you!  You can get stuck! :) Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Section.

$ 945.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2-6
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
#7457 - c. 1900 Breathtaking Lavender Silk Charmeuse and Chiffon Trained Dressing Gown with Angelic Sleeves! OK... every once in a while, I take photos and this very strange light comes into the room (you can see it just to the right of the right sleeve).  I don't know what it is!  I can't figure out where it's coming from!  So I just have to assume that it's the spirit of the woman who wore these garments.  What else COULD it be??  (OK, I don't really, absolutely believe in this stuff, but who am I do deny their existence?? :)  I'm not surprised this woman would want to stay with this gown.  It's breathtaking!!!  No other word comes to mind. You can call it Victorian Dressing Gown, or Edwardian Coming Gown, or 1900 Peignoir Robe. The color is still a vibrant lavender silk satin or charmeuse with double rows of light pink/lavender chiffon ruffles edging the hemline, collar, down the front, and sleeves.  Satin ribbons tie the gown at the front with no other closures (other than one set of snaps at front just to hold it closed a bit at the belly if you want).  Bows at each sleeve. Condition is Excellent!  I found only two small watermarks on the chiffon hemline (see photo), and any other issues are so tiny as to be nearly invisible. Measures: 54" long from shoulder to hem in front, 84" long in back.  Best for a petite woman if you want it to sweep the ground.  But as you can wear it open, it will fit quite a few bodies.  This is one of those antique pieces that you will hate yourself if you miss it.... and LAYAWAY is available, so you have no excuse for not making yourself happy!  :)  A Gown for a Fairy Princess... like you!  I add this to the wedding category for those seeking fabulous wedding robes or peignoirs for your trousseaux!   Also Listed in the 1850-1920s and Lingerie Categories. 

$ 1,845.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2-8 Petite (to sweep the ground)
(check measurements above) 


SOLD
#5800 - 1930's Extraordinary Beaded Velvet Wedding Gown with Long Beaded Train!  Kate Middleton's Alexander McQueen wedding gown cost a reported  £250,000 (just over $400,000!!) and Pippa's simple McQueen gown was £20,000 (or $32,500).... and if you ask me... this gown is much more extraordinary than either of those "shmatas". (if you don't know this word... look it up! :)  This is what Kate SHOULD have worn to compete with her sister.  But alas, she didn't, so if you have the body, you can walk down the aisle like the Princess you are.   I have NEVER seen anything like this... other than in the 1930's movies. Ivory crushed velvet gown with beaded wide sleeves and upper bodice, and then the beading follows through to the long train!!  The long velvet ropes at the neckline with wax blossoms "tassels" complete the look.   This gown was so much nicer on the body than then mannequin, so ... on the body it is.  As it's a bias cut, it will fit a variety of bodies, but it is small, so best for size 0-4.  The model is 31.5" bust, 25" waist, 31.5" hips and it's too large in the bust and hips on her, but your waist will need to be small, or you will need to add a bit at the side closures. Email me your measurements (no cheating) to make sure it will fit you, as this is going to be a final sale item due to the uniqueness.  Although there is no label in this gown, it was found in a box with a little silk pillow (ruined now) that read: Valentin Elgoibar, Bilbao, Spain.  Unlike a new wedding gown, this is an investment as it will always keep it's value.  Museum Worthy.  Also Listed in the Museum and 1930-Today Categories.

$ 12,500.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0-4
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#6918 - c. 1930's/40's Peignoir Bridal Honeymoon Set of Blush Sheer Crepe and Lace! Luxurious Wedding Nightgown and Robe or Wedding Trousseaux (for you Googlers!)! As magnificent as you might expect for Camelot's Queen Guinevere!  Achingly beautiful peachy/pinky crepe gown with matching peignoir (robe).  That's it.  That's the description, as it's all in the photos. Obviously with that low slung lace inset "belt" and folded front lace appliqued pleats, this nightgown was meant to evoke a Medieval look, and the peignoir/robe brings in that Hollywood Glamour of yesteryear.  The gown measures: up to 36" bust, up to 33" waist, up to 43" hips (but shown as beautifully on a dressform 35/25/36).  The robe measures: up to 40" bust, up to 33" waist, up to 45" hips. Both are 60" long from shoulder to hem. Excellent condition with just some minor small scattered age spots (see last photo). You know you are going to kick yourself if you miss this!  So, use my 4-month layaway plan and make it yours! Also Listed in the Lingerie, Wedding and 1930-Today Categories. 

$ 1,485.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4-8
(check measurements above) 

 


SOLD
#5371 - c. late 1960s/early 1970s TRAVILLA White Lace Gown with Tiny Pink Petals!  For all you wanna-be Princesses in a fairytale, Travilla designed this gown specifically for you. Though William Travilla worked for many many years for Hollywood films and TV, he is best known for dressing one specific star, and even more importantly, one specific iconic dress! In 1953, Travilla created the white cocktail dress Marilyn wore in the film The Seven Year Itch. You know the one... worn over the subway ventilation grate and the dress blows up around her. And it seems that Marilyn was quite enamored as she once wrote to Travilla "Billy Dear, please dress me forever. I love you, Marilyn." So... how about a Travilla for you?  Certainly not as sexy as the subway dress, but a charmer in a different way. Great for a romantic vintage themed wedding. Huge balloon sleeves.  Cuffs and neckline are edged in the pink flowers, and they are strewn all over the gown.  Slightly high waistline, great sweetheart neckline underdress, wide pink original belt with flowers at front.  Back zipper (even that is nicely tailored). Excellent condition with the exception of a few of the flowers missing and I see one spot at front bust (see photo). Measures:  34/35" bust, 31" high-waist (ribcage), 59" long from shoulder to hem. Also Listed in the 1930-Today Section.

$ 865. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD

 

#7299 - c. 1982 JERAN White Beaded Grecian Toga Gown!  Worn by Audrey Landers in 1982 on AM Los Angeles TV Program!  Well, I got a few Jeran beaded gowns coming up soon, but I gotta say, this is the most special of the bunch.  A few of the gowns had the original price tags still attached, so I know for sure that they cost $3,000 - $4,000.  And since this is the best of those, this was likely originally at least $5,000!  And again, this was back in 1982.  Using the inflation calculator (yes, just Google search that and see for yourself!), that means that this would cost over $11,000 today!  And then to top it off, it's got the "celebrity" connection. Comes with the photo of Audrey in the gown on the AM Los Angeles set, along with the autographs of Randy McLaughlin and Jerry Skeels.  I just Googled searched more info, and seems a fashion sketch (just the SKETCH!) signed by these two guys (of Jeran Designs) is priced at $1,999!  Seems they formed Jeran Designs in 1982, so this gown is one of their first! In 1983 they designed a dress for Joan Collins for the cover of Playboy and that's when their gowns became coveted by the starlets! This gown is in Excellent condition! Actually wraps around your body like a true toga, so no closures are seen!! Huge snaps at the shoulder.  As you seen, the edge is trimmed in gold beading in the classic Grecian design.  God, if you've got a party at a museum, or toga party, or Roman toga wedding.... where are you EVER gonna find anything this spectacular again??    Also Listed in the Memorabilia Category.

$ 5,250. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2-6
(check measurements above)


SOLD

NOTE:  This gown was seen on
ABC's "Good Morning America"
on Monday, January 26, 2009 !

http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory?id=6595881

#9948 - c. 1956 PRISCILLA of BOSTON Wedding Gown of Massive Ivory Organdy with Original Slip and Headpiece!  With Photos of the Original Bride in Gown! In 1945, Priscilla Kidder opened her small bridal shop offering unique handmade wedding dresses.  In the 1950's, luxury department stores began carrying her handcrafted Priscilla of Boston wedding gowns, made from the most exquisite fabrics and embellishments.  National popularity grew to such heights that everyone wanted to be a Priscilla bride. Priscilla's international distinction was clearly established in 1956 when she was chosen to design the exquisite bridesmaid gowns for the wedding of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco. Her name has stood the test of time and remains the hallmark of bridal elegance.  If you are small enough to fit into this gown, you will find nothing more fabulous and striking!!  Skirt gives you that wonderful and rarely heard these days "swishing" sound!  Soooooo romantic!  Off-the-shoulders with appliques, tight bodice with massive skirt with appliqued floral wreath at front.  There 51 buttons up the back, so please choose a patient maid of honor to help you dress!  Excellent condition, I found one tiny hole in the massive skirt on close inspection, and the dress will want to be aired (after being cooped up for so many years). The gown comes with the original stiff half-slip and has built-in hip panniers to create the wonderful shape.  Also comes with the original simple pearl and sequin headpiece. Measures: 32/33" bust (small back 12"), 23" waist, 44" long from waist to hem in front, 54" long in back.  

$ 1,485.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00  (tiny back)
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD

 

#7245 - RARE c. 1970's BOB MACKIE / RAY AGHAYAN Halter Gown of Off-White "Fortuny" Pleats with Convertible Grecian Design sold at the Prestigious Bonwit Teller!  I'm always on the lookout for these Bob Mackie / Ray Aghayan pieces as they were only made for a few years in the late 1970s. As the history goes, as early as 1969, Bob Mackie and partners Ray Aghayan and Elizabeth Courtney established their Beverly Hills boutique, Elizabeth the First, which in turn spawned the short-lived wholesale firm Ray Aghayan/Bob Mackie (notice how I changed the label around in my listing, as most of you know Mackie better than Aghayan, though Aghayan was Judy Garland's designer as well as many other stars, so you SHOULD know him!).  Anyway, even if this gown wasn't a special label, I'd still faun all over it.  Perfect for a wedding gown, or any other special occasion  where white is the color of choice, i.e. a Black & White Ball.  The entire gown is designed of Fortuny-like pleating with halter neck with that fabulous short gathered material above the rope tie, a simple waistline, and a faux 4-tiered skirt.  The halter ties are long enough then to wear just tied in a bow at the back neck, or wrapped around the bodice in Grecian style and tied at the front or side. Ooh! Near Mint condition with just one small pull in the bodice!  Just a smidge too small for the mannequin at back waist.  3-layers of fabric in the skirt.  Back zipper hidden by snaps at back (so for a bridal gown, you don't see a zipper - I hate that! :)  Measures:  34" bust, 24" waist, 59" long from shoulder to hem.  You can glitz this up with a short rhinestone (oh heck, diamond) necklace and/or belt, or anything else you'd like to do with it.  I can't say enough about it so I have to stop blithering. This gown will move beautifully when you do! If your waist is larger than 24", get creative at the back and add a gathered chiffon train starting at the waist!  Or whatever.... use your imagination!!   Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category. 

$ 1,865.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)
 


SOLD

#7382- c. 2002 ERIC WINTERLING Fantastic Heavy Canvas Stage Worn Gown!  I can't stand cheap, poorly made pieces, so when I find unique and wonderful custom made costumes with couture level skill, my heart skips a beat... or two. I have to say I'm mildly addicted to these fabulously made and designed costumes.  Perhaps it's because they can evoke so many different eras.  And perhaps it's because I wish I could time travel and this is the closest I'm gonna get.  Anyway, this gown came to me and I had to research and track down more info on it.. so... I contacted Eric Winterling, Inc. (the costume shop that created the costumes for Broadway's "Wicked" and "Wonderland", etc.) and they were sweet enough to forward me photos of this gown in production at their 2002 shop!!  The gown was designed by Marina Draghici (Tony Award winner for "Fela") for William Shakespeare's "As You Like It" for the character Rosalind in the 2002 National Tour by The Acting Company.  The gown is, indeed, a one of a kind.  The dress was
worn for the wedding scene at the end of the play by the actress Jessica Bates (who I also contacted to complete the research on this gown!). As she wrote to me, "I believe that the costume designer's original intent in making all the costumes out of
canvas was that we were to look like living works of art, like paintings that had come to life. I felt extremely honored to wear such an incredibly crafted garment! It still blows my mind when I think about how difficult it must have been for them to sew all those pleats into the canvas! Say hi to the dress for me!"  NOTE:  the gown is extremely heavy!!!!  Back zipper.  Faux corset bodice is attached to the skirt. The color is what you'd expect from canvas... canvas colored.  The bodice is beautifully stenciled with pink and bits of "fairy dust".  A WORK OF ART!  
 Also Listed in the Memorabilia Category.

$ 1,245. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)


SOLD

 

#5448 - c. 1930's Wedding Gown Ensemble of Rayon Satin with Lace Bridal Overcoat! Oh lordy! OK... everyone CALM DOWN!  Yes, I know this is one of the most incredible looking 1930's wedding ensembles you've ever seen, but it's not in wearable condition (as the lace is fragile and will pull apart at any stress points, and holes in the lace have already appeared in those areas.  So this heart-stopping piece is for seamstresses or wedding collectors only. A seamstress may be able to stabilize the net lace by backing with netting.  If so... well, then... it IS wearable!  The lace overcoat is in quite good condition otherwise with only minor small spots (see photos on the lace on the side train).  The simple slip matching satin "Harlow" gown under is also, yes, gorgeous, but the satin on that has quite a bit of satin bruising (that means it's shaded funny) and also has some minor small spots along with quite a bit of dirt along with hemline.  I can't give you much in measurements as it's a bias gown, so it will fit quite a few different bodies, but the sweet matching original thin rope belt is 26", so that should give you a clue to the size being about a size 4/6, and the gown is 60" long.  The wedding coat (bridal overcoat) measures:  61" long from shoulder to hem in front (quite long!) and 96" long trained in back.  OK, now that you can breathe again after reading all the issues, take a look at the fabulous photos... and if you can deal with the issues (and I have to say, this is FINAL SALE to make sure the condition remains as it is), then you will adore it!  Other things?  The coat has all it's covered buttons down the front (yea!).  Oh, and one strap on the gown will need a stitch or two (hardly worth mentioning).

$ 545. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/small 6
(check measurements above) 


SOLD
#7035 - c. early 1920's Heavily Embroidered Cotton Net Dress!  I was holding this dress up prior to putting it on the mannequin and shrugging my shoulders.  Sure, it was pretty, but it wasn't until I photographed it that I fell in love.  It just evoked the Regency era!  It looked like it should have been worn by Gwyneth Paltrow in the movie "Emma". So then, I wanted to see what this dress would look like with an empire waist, and then a natural waist, a low waist, and hip band, so you will see a ribbon I used to show all the different looks.  Then you can wear with a nude slip under (to look like you see), or wear with a colored slip under for totally different looks.... and/or wear with a longer slip under for this to be a tunic!!  SOOOOO much you can do with this dress!!!  All gorgeous. The dress has a front panel of cut voile floral lace with hundreds (I might exaggerate) of tiny crochet buttons down the front!  There are drapy side panels and flouncy short sleeves. Condition is great with the exception of extreme minor age spots here and there, but the only real issue is a small hole area on one of the side drapy panels - lost in the folds, but there (see photo).  Measures: up to 42" bust, up to 42" waist, up to 49" hips, 49-51" long from shoulder to hem. Meant to be worn large... the mannequin is size 6 (35/25/36) so you can see how it looks on her. Great for a wedding or anything!

$ 845.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6-10
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
 

#7271 - c. 1930's "Heavenly Silk Lingerie" by FISCHER Ivory Bias Silk and Lace Charmeuse Negligee! LOVE this! I'd want to wear it as a wedding gown! It's 99% perfect as it has extremely light spotting.  But then again I'll bet your man isn't perfect either! :)  Just kidding... he's wonderful... just ask him! :)  Gorgeous ivory bias silk charmeuse with wide bands of ecru cotton Valenciennes lace all over the bodice and cap sleeves and hem trim. The bodice even has a sweet pale blue ribbon under the lace. Looks Gorgeous on!!!  It's bias, so all these are MAXIMUM measurements.  Looks great on me at 33" bust, 26" waist, 37" hips, though slightly small, still wearable.... however it's a bit long on me at 5'2".  The length will change depending on your measurements (that's what happens to bias cuts). Measures: 31-33" bust (best for less than "c" cup), up to 27" waist, up to 40" hips, 57" long from shoulder to hem.  You will need to wear something under the bust if you wear as a dress as it's sheer lace there.  By the way, Fischer silk is THE BEST!  If you don't want to wear this as a wedding gown, you'll certainly want it for your Trousseaux! Note: Have a friend with you to get this on and off... no closures, so it's over the head.. and to take off, bend over at the waist and have a friend (or you new husband) pull it off for ease.  You can do it yourself, but it's not a pretty sight! :)  Sexier if he removes it! :)   Also Listed in the Lingerie Category. 

$ 945. SOLD

Approx. - Size 2/4
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#4576 - c. 1931/32 MAISON DOUCET, 57, Knightsbridge, SWI  Beige Lace Gown with Matching Jacket! OK... This could be listed in either the pre-1930 or post-1930 categories, so I will list it in both... as well as wedding, since it would work beautifully for just about anyone!  I wish I could give you history on the London Doucet label, but I find nothing in my research... so I will have to assume it was an authorized London outpost of the most prestigious Parisian Maison Doucet of Jacques Doucet, one of the greatest designers of the late 19th, early 20th centuries. However, Jacques Doucet died in 1929, and his Parisian house was merged with Doeuillet soon after. So.... it's very possible this was a VERY short-lived, Rare London label!!!  Beige lace slender, bias ruffled skirted, sleeveless. 'U' neck gown with high draped bateau back neckline with china silk underlay.  The matching short lace jacket has lovely tiered bell sleeves and no closures.  I added the ribbon and flowers at waist for show... doesn't come with any. Measures: 34-36" bust, up to 31" waist, up to 40" hips, 56" long from shoulder to hem. Side snaps. NOTE:  The nude china silk lining is still attached but is quite fragile (torn at seams, and large stain at hemline), so you will want to remove and wear your own slip under. No big deal.  Many of these antique lace gowns have lost there linings long ago!  At least you have an excellent pattern if you want to remake a new one.  OR.... go naked under!  Woo-woo! Now THAT will make an interesting entrance! :)  Other than lining, Excellent condition with just one small light spot found in skirt.  This is ONE gorgeous piece on!!! And as you know... ANY couture labeled gowns from the 1930s (the depression era) are VERY rare!!!  Also listed in the 1850-1920s and 1930-Today Categories.

$ 1,885. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6, perhaps 8
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#5974 - c. 1956 PRISCILLA OF BOSTON, Sold at Neiman Marcus Magnificent Candlelight Satin Beaded Split-Trained Wedding Gown! I just recently sold a similar gown that was SO tiny that I had to turn most brides away from purchasing it knowing it wouldn't fit them.  That one barely had a 22" waist.  Luckily the dress found the RIGHT bride, and I saw photos of her in it... and it was breathtaking!!  So I know this will be equally beautiful on the next small bride!!  This one is slightly larger, but still a size 0/2. It was found in a preservation box so I have no history for this gown (sadly), but obviously with the Neiman Marcus tag, and the high-end quality, it was worn by a well-to-do woman... and meticulously stored!  Near mint condition - just needs a professional steaming.  Priscilla of Boston gowns had "names", and this one was "Pamela".  Wide nearly off the shoulder bodice, "v" piped bodice at fitted waist, ribbons and lace and sequins on the shoulders and around the neckline, all buttoned back, lace appliques and pearls and sequins on the skirt here and there, and then the unique split-trained back!!  LOVELY!  Has little loops under to raise the train for the reception and dancing.  This is a VERY VERY VERY wide hipped and skirt gown!!  It has hip panniers, AND I added a full hoop petticoat under and it's STILL fuller than that!!!   Make sure you have a wide aisle to walk down! :)   But my god you will WOW them all!!  For those of you who still believe that wedding gowns should be "princess" gowns, and not slinky. I'm showing the gown on a size 6 mannequin, so it's too small to button up her back (sorry).  The hoop petticoat doesn't come with it, but they are easy to purchase online quite affordably. Measures: up to 34" bust, up to 30" underbust, up to 24" waist, 58" long from shoulder to hem in front, 68" long in the back, 78" long with train. 

$ 1,485. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)


SOLD

NOTE:  This gown was seen on
ABC's "Good Morning America"
on Monday, January 26, 2009 !

#6078 - c. 1981 ALBERT CAPRARO COUTURE Dusty Pink Silk Trained Ballgown or Wedding Gown!  On July 29, 1981 Lady Diana Spencer married Prince Charles with the whole world watching on TV.  The gown she wore,  designed by Emmanuel, became an instant sensation.  No surprise that similar gowns with huge puffy sleeves became all the rage. Albert Capraro was a top designer of the 1970's and 1980's first designing for Oscar de la Renta starting in 1966, and starting his own label in 1974.  His claim to fame was designing for first lady Betty Ford. This gown is (in my opinion) much more beautiful than Diana's wedding gown and the couture label means it would have been designed specifically for a private client. De-accessioned from a museum! An exceptional dusty pink silk taffeta, adorned with huge matching silk roses and bows at shoulders and cuffs (they are all easily removable if you wish).  The bodice is low cut and fully ruched, and the skirt is massive. In a news article of 1975, Capraro is lumped in with Bill Blass - whose couture gowns sold for as high as $5,000 at the time! Diana's gown was said to cost 9,000 UK pounds, likely close to $15,000 back then!  OK.. back to this gown.  Metal zipper at back. Measures: 32/33" bust, 25/26" waist, 57" long from shoulder to hem in front, 74" long in back, 285" hemline!  Excellent condition with just one small spot at back of train (see photos) which can be covered or train shortened.  Looks amazing on!  Just fits me... tightly fitting my 33" C/D cup with great cleavage and 26" waist! One of the BEST! True COUTURE which would cost tens of thousands of dollars today!  Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category.

$ 1,895. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2/4
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#6863 - c. 1900's Wedding Gown of White Tambour Net Lace with Ecru Satin and Pearl Flower Trim!  Comes with Original Photo of the Bride and Original Shoes!  I know there are soon-to-be brides out there just waiting for this gown! You have to see the photos of the original bride to see how it can look with the right underdress and petticoats.  Then you can get creative if you want with something other than white under.... ecru would be lovely... or go be different with light blue or plush pink, or whatever suits you!  Excellent condition with just a few minor holes in the netting at the lower back skirt (see photos).... and I only found one small area of light spot on the hemline (I'm sure that can be carefully bleached).  Measures:  32/33" bust, 23" waist, 12.5" neck, 56" long from shoulder to hem in front, 78" long in back.   You can get creative with just a bit of extra pleated netting at back to increase size.  The shoes are tiny and just for show, but lovely with glass beaded "buckles". The original photo has some damage, but I photoshopped it for you!  Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category. 

$ 1,285. SOLD  

Approx. - SIZE 0 (can be made larger with creativity)
(check measurements above)

 


SOLD
#6828 - c. 1930's White Trained Lace Wedding Coat!  Comes with Simple White Slip! I don't know if you've tried to find 1930's lace wedding coats in good condition, but let me tell you... it ain't easy! The reason is that most of the 30's laces have dried out over time and they are brittle - so they tear easily... or they are already in shreds.  But luckily, this lace wedding coat is in Near Excellent condition with a few lace breaks here and there, but certainly will hold up for the walk down the aisle and the bridal photos! It should be removed for the reception so you can dance the night away without care. It comes with a white shiny slip (which is likely not original as it seems a bit short, but looks fine under, but for the reception you will want to wear something else.)The lace coat buttons up the front with hundreds of self-covered buttons (OK, perhaps not hundreds, but it feels like it when you are buttoning them!).  No other do-dad's or embellishments.  It's just simply beautiful.  Measures: 33-35" bust. up to 27" waist, up to 34"/35" hips, 63" long from shoulder to hem in front, 90" long in back. Sleeves go on, but are tight, so roll them up to get on and off (nice trick!). NOTE: Due to the delicate nature of these lace wedding coats, this is a FINAL SALE item.  NEW LISTING!

$ 545.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2/4
(check measurements above)
 


SOLD
#9940 - c. 1820's /1890's Ivory Satin Wedding Gown! I hate to be stupid, but I guess I can't know everything (though I DO try!).  This gown is really confusing me.  It has an 1820's hemline (with the lovely bow / ribbon detailing) and early 1820's closures at front, and brown cotton lining... all correct to about 1822-1826... but the stitching is by machine... so I wonder if perhaps it was reworked a bit... perhaps back in style during the aesthetic period around 1892-1894 - because... the person who owned this gown has a note that reads "Mary Jane Crusau's satin wedding dress, June 1894".   I really can't tell you one way or another.  I need to go to fashion school (never did you know!), so perhaps one of you educated types can help me out here!!  FYI, I added a dash of wax flower at one sleeve (doesn't come with it, but would likely have had some decoration similar) and show it with a wax headpiece - available separately on this website.   There is an underlayer sweeper at the hemline with narrow band of matching velvet.  The gown is lovely and looks to be in great condition (with the exception of a few age marks here and there), but then, unfortunately, the underarms are torn up (see photos).  It's great for display, but not to wear... as is.  Tiny anyway!Measures: 30" bust, 11" across back between armseams (tiny!), 54" long from shoulder to hem in front, 65" long in back.  The gown has its faults, but damn pretty for display when the underarms won't be an issue.  Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category.

$ 685. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)
 


SOLD
#4032 - c. 1930's Ivory Crepe Gown with Extraordinary Fringed Trained Back!  LARGER SIZE! For those of you who drool over the Vionnet museum fringed gown that you see in many history of fashion books, well, this isn't quite that, but unless you are planning to break into the The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, this is just about the closest you're gonna get!  AND for those of you who get so upset because items aren't in larger sizes(and by larger, that usually means anything over a size 6 in vintage clothing! ... ta da!... :)   Measures: 40" bust, up to 33" waist, up to 42" hips, 57" long from shoulder to hem in front, 62" long in trained back. The gown is an ivory crepe, plain in front and fringed only in the lower trained back. Love the low "v" back with the strips across.  The condition is Very Good, as there are the occasional small, light spots here and there (though you won't see them unless inspecting), and the fact that someone had pinned a decoration at the front and the back strip (see close-ups).  The other issue is the fringe will need to be "combed" and some of the fringe looks like it unraveled, so it's no longer twisted.  None of the issues are glaring, and for an ivory colored gown from the 30s, it's still in great shape! Wonderful for a 1930s themed wedding, eh?   Or ANY wedding!   Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category.    

$ 1,385.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 12/14 ?
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#6567 - c. 1908 All Lace Princess Trained Gown with Wool Inserts!  OK kiddies.... Like I say all the time, "I try to sell the 'best of the best'"! One look at this frothy confection will likely make your blood pressure go through the roof.  If it doesn't, then you have no business being on this website!  :)  Princess shape, all spider lace gown with high frilly lace neck and train.  The photo at left shows the gown with a white petticoat under the skirt which is why it's whiter than the bodice.  I should have found a full slip for the photo, but hey... I figure you can use your imagination just a bit to see what the gown might look like with various colored slips under.... nude, white, pink, light blue, ecru.... whatever your little heart desires!  Even black if you want to get crazy!  Check out  the close-up photos to see the design detail.  The inserts are a woven ecru wool that no moth has ever found! Hooks up the back. Near Mint condition!  This is short, so a slip with lace at hem that peeks out the bottom will work for a taller gal.  The neck and sleeves are also especially tight, so you might need to add a bit of lace to fit you. For those of you who collect, or display.... you will never find a better lace gown!  Measures:  33" bust, 27" waist, 53" long from shoulder to hem in front, 67" long in back, 11.5" neck, tight arms.  Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category 

$ 2,485.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)
  

 


SOLD
#6807 - c. 1894 Wedding Gown 6-piece Outfit with Original Wedding Bustle, Shoes, and Garters with Important ProvenanceThis wedding gown belonged to the same owner as the c. 1888 Worth Velvet and Satin Court Gown and Train that still has the record for the highest price ever paid for an antique gown of $101,000 at Doyle Auction in 2001. That owner was Esther Maria Lewis Chapin (1871-1959) the great great granddaughter of George Washington's sister, Elizabeth Washington Lewis (1722-1797).  Esther's father, Col. Edward Parke Custis Lewis (1837-1892) was the American Minister to Portugal under President Grover Cleveland from 1885-1889.  The wedding took place at Trinity Church, Hoboken New Jersey on May 19, 1894.  The gown is a beautiful ivory silk satin.  Boned high neck bodice with huge gigot sleeves, front chiffon inset at yoke, waist and cuffst.  Front hook and eye closures.  Petersham stamp "C.W. Sherwood, 281 W. 11th St. New York".  The skirt is gathered at back with gigantic 8-foot train.  Flounced and ruffled petticoat under hemline.  Comes with the original satin pump shoes with abalone ornaments, and two original bowed satin garters.  Also comes with the extremely RARE ivory silk lace trimmed lobster tail bustle (worth at least $500 by itself)!!  The original plain taffeta slip is included, but that is in shreds I'm afraid.  The rest of the outfit is in Excellent condition with a few exceptions.  The shoes and garters are near mint!  The bustle has tears/weakness at upper one side.  The gown has minor tears to the chiffon (what else is new) and needs a new waistband on the skirt (torn at back band). The read in a newspaper article that the gown was covered in family heirloom lace which was likely removed to be used for another family bride ... you can see tiny stitch holes where it would have been attached.  I added a wax flower at the neck for the photos (doesn't come with the gown).  An example of that is seen on a previously sold gown: http://antiquedress.com/item3761.htm.   This is likely unwearable by any human these days due to the size of the back! Measures:  32" bust,  23" waist, 10.5" across back (!),  54" long from shoulder to hem.   

$ 2,485.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
#6827 - c. 1930's Wedding Gown of Bias White Satin, Trained with Lace Bodice! This authentic vintage 1930's wedding gown is beautifully styled with classic, understated elegance.  If you are having a vintage style wedding, this gown is for you!  It has a modern slimness, and is figure-revealing because of its sexy bias cut.  LONG, dramatic cathedral train falls into a lake of satin, and is beautiful for pictures and a grand entrance.  Beautiful lace creates the dramatic puff sleeves, neckline and back.  Totally CLEAN, in near mint condition.  READY to wear! Made from white crepe backed silk satin charmeuse that has a luxurious feel, with a heavy liquid drape and sultriness.  Sleeves taper and fit the elbow with darts, and end in a point at the top of the hand.  Self-fabric covered buttons (44!) at back and the sleeve ends (8 on each sleeve).  It is a perfect, contemporary US size 6, as shown on my size 6 dress form.   This is NOT a fragile gown; it's strong and wearable in Excellent condition.  Only noted are a few minor abrasions on the front, near the stomach, where a bouquet would be held.  Only noticed if the light hits a certain way, and if you are looking closely.  Its a lovely gown in amazing condition for its age. Measures: 34/35" bust, up to 28" waist, up to 38" hips (bias cut, so possibly larger measurements.  Just email me to confirm!), 60" long in front, 115" in back.  Note: I didn't button all buttons just for time sake!  They are ALL there!! 

$ 1,685.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)
  


SOLD
#5098 - c. 1909/1910 Ivory Silk and Lace 2-piece Slightly Trained Gown! WEARABLE SIZE! Slightly hard to date as the sleeves aren't puffy enough for 1903-1907, and yet the skirt is a bit less straight than you might expect for 1908-1910, but the waists returned to the correct lower waistline briefly in 1910... so.....  and it was a slight pigeon front originally (which was slightly modified with an extra waistband (see photos), so it could be a revamped in 1910 from a gown a few years earlier.  I often question my opinions!  I should be a bit more definite!! :)  Anyway, I'm definite about the fact that it's a beauty... but also definite about the fact that it's not perfect. :(   Measures: 35/36" bust, 31" waist, 42" long from waist to hem in front, 50" long from waist to hem in back, 13" neck (best if you are smaller so you can swallow!).  Beside the revamping in likely 1910, there are more modern revamps so the gown becomes more wearable.  Beautifully matching satin was placed down the bodice back, inner cuffs and around the armholes inside.  A band was placed at the waist of the bodice to hold it in place better. These are very helpful additions!  The skirt is meant to be worn slightly higher than your normal waistline.  The size is quite good! WEARABLE! YEAH!  That's the good news!!  The bad news is that it's not in perfect condition.  There are light spots all over (seen in daylight or under bright lights, but if you are wearing this for an evening event, you won't be bothered at all by these spots!!  They will hardly be seen).  Otherwise, the hemline is a bit dirty from sweeping the floor, and it needs to be re-hemmed (as it's coming undone - I could do it, but best to get a better seamstress for the silk)....and the interior chiffon is tearing inside the sleeves (not a huge problem).  So... all in all a gorgeous 2-piece gown beautiful enough to be worn to a Victorian/Edwardian event or even for your wedding!!  If perfect, this would be well into the thousands.... Check out the Irish Crochet sleeves, yoke, neck and skirt inserts, and the gorgeous ruffled lace on the sleeves, and the matching velvet panel on the front bodice and the rope trim with ornamental buttons!!!!! These are the elements that make this SOOOO beautiful!!  Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category.

$ 795.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4-8
(check measurements above)
  


 SOLD
#9792  - c. 1940's Wedding Gown of Candlewhite Satin and Lace with Original Satin Sandals, Gauntlet Lace Gloves and Original JAY THORPE Headpiece with Tulle Short Veil! This gown came to me from an estate with many designer pieces, so I can only assume it might have come from the prestigious Jay Thorpe along with the labeled headpiece. Absolutely gorgeous both in person and in photographs (great for the wedding album!).  Candlewhite satin dress covered with a gimpure lace all over.  Beautiful scalloped hemline slightly shorter in front to peek to the original satin sandals (or your own shoes).  Unique configuration of the long tulle train off the back hipline.  There is a finger loop to hold this train up during the reception, or get a seamstress to create a bustle effect with hooks.  Very short wing sleeves.  Comes with the original matching lace gauntlet lace gloves (to wear during the ceremony if you want, and then remove for the reception). And, oh, 41 tiny satin buttons up the back (get a very patient maid of honor!).  Unfortunately, she was quite small as this Measures: 34" bust, 24" waist, up to 35" hips, 52" long from shoulder to shortest point at front, 56" long from shoulder to hem, 75" long in back with the long attached tulle train.  Excellent condition except for very import underarm stains.  These will need to be dealt with for your wedding day - perhaps by using the material of the gauntlet sleeves, or get creative with matching satin ribbon to cover the problem.  Well worth the effort to be able to wear such a fabulous gown!  The tulle has a few minor spots if you care, you can always easily use new tulle.  Priced correctly to give you extra money to get creative to resize, and/or work on underarms.  Looks easily like a $2,000+ gown. 

$ 865.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0
(check measurements above)


SOLD on LAYAWAY
#6745 - c. late 1870's/early 1880's Fan Trained Wedding Gown of Cream Silk Satin with Crystal Beading! First thing you have to do is click on the photo at the left to see the extensive white crystal beading down the front of the skirt, around the neckline and on the sleeves. Only the wealthiest of brides would have such an elaborate wedding gown!  Likely too small to be worn today (unless you are a Calista Flockhart or Audrey Hepburn build). Awesome details including self-fabric pleated fans on the skirt sides.  I've added a sprig of wax flowers at the bust (doesn't come with it), but I would decorate this gown with additional similar wax or silk blossoms.  The condition is excellent, with a few issues to explain.  First off the dress itself is excellent with no underarm staining or anything... strong material... clean interior.  However, there is one spot on front side skirt (see photos) and then the fact that the netting behind the beading is torn away, yet the beading is strong everywhere but on one shoulder where the beading needs to be retacked.  Still, it is mostly all there! Just needs a little TLC to be nearly mint.   Measures:  30" bust, 23"/24" waist, 38" long skirt from waist to hem in front, and 66" long in back.  Also Listed in the 1850-1920s Category.

$ 1,785.  SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)
 


SOLD on LAYAWAY
#6245 - c. 1882 Wedding Bustle Gown of Ivory Satin with Pearls and Silk Confetti Fringe! Back Lacing! Long Train!  Seems to be getting harder to find really special bustle gowns.   Or perhaps I'm just not looking in the right places.  Seems the only place I'm finding these really special bustle gowns is on my own website! :) OR, if you are quick, in YOUR closet! :)  Fabulous ivory satin wedding gown trimmed in faux pearls, great silk floss "like confetti" fringe and lace.  1882 was just before the return on the bustle, so you see the beginnings of the bunching at back with the mass of bows.  This is a one-piece gown with an attached inner slip. The bodice is cotton lined, so still in near mint condition. I love the back laced gowns... you just need the lace (a thin ribbon would work, or thin cording). Excellent condition with some pearls and the back lacing missing, minor spots in the skirt which can totally disappear with the right gathering, and the only other issue found is a minor light reddish hue on one side of bust (so light it cannot be seen in photos).  Really in as great a condition as you will find for any gown 127 years old! :) Measures: 36" bust, 24.5" waist, 13" across back, 42" long skirt in front, 78" long in back. 

$ 2,450. SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE 2 (small waist)
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#6658 - c. 1920's White Net Gauze Embroidered Dress! Great dress with lots of detailing!  Looks great on me even though it's way larger than I would normally wear anything, but that's the greatness of 20's dresses.... they are meant to be worn larger.  It's all about the dress, not the shape.  So if it's all about the dress, the dress better be fabulous... as is this!  So pretty, it can be worn for an informal wedding dress.  Ankle length on me at 5'2".  Shorter would also look great, or... wear with a longer underdress/slip.  You can choose any color, or white.  Fabulous white embroidery at mid section, filet embroidered lace in a zig-zag design.  Short cap sleeves.  Side snaps. The dress is in Very good condition as there is some pulling of material at side seams area ( see photos).  The dress may have been smaller at side seams?  Often these dresses look exactly the same front and back, but although the top is nearly identical both sides, the skirt is different in the back... beautifully embroidered.  I show the dress with a nude slip under, but it doesn't come with it.  Measures:  38" bust, up to 35" waist, up to 38" hips, 52" long from shoulder to hem.    

$ 1,465.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6-10
(check measurements above)


SOLD
#4760 - c. 1895/1896 Manufactured in France Ivory Satin 2-Piece Trained Wedding Gown with Brocade Skirt! Deassessioned from a Museum! First things first... this is TEENY TINY and likely unwearable except for your pre-teen or your smallest dressform.  That being said, it is... as you can plainly see... lovely! There is a "Manufactured in France" stamp inside the bodice (I never saw that before!)... you wonder if the customs officials of the era were trying to crack down on all the socialites removing labels to avoid issues when returning to the US from their Parisian shopping sprees! :O   The satin bodice has huge oversized puff sleeves with inner buckram to keep puffy, a wrap front and a high neckline.  The interior is boned with cotton so it's in quite good condition.  Even the underarm protection pads are there... and they are so large that they also helped pad the bust!!!  Vixen! :)  Closes with hidden hooks/eyes at front.  The skirt has a fabulous rope detail edging at hem and down front of skirt to highlight the edge between the satin and brocade.  The skirt is lined in cotton and has perfect pleated lace under hemline.  Excellent condition with only two tiny issues found... the chiffon at collar is slightly torn (and will likely continue, but it's totally unnecessary as it's just an overlay) and there is one 1" circle water spot on the top of one sleeve (see photo).  Add a bow to hide or just tack to hide if you care. Measures:  28" bust, 22" waist (yes, these are not typos) and 9-10" across back, 42" long from waist to hem, 76" long from waist to hem in back. 

SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 000
(check measurements above)


SOLD on LAYAWAY
#4731 - c. 1875 Ivory Paper Silk 2-piece Fly-Tie Silk Floss Fringe Bustle Wedding Gown with Original Decorations and Corset-Laced Back! Direct to you from a museum deaccession - still has the typed collection tag attached.   So if you want items good enough for a museum... but don't think you are capable of a museum heist, best to shop on my website!  :)  This is one of my favs!  Paper thin and crispy, crinkly sounding silk taffeta 2-piece gown.  Shown worn with bustle (though not included).  The skirt is fabulous with the glorious fly-tie silk trim and original silk flowers!!!  The long fitted boned bodice has... ooh.... a corset-laced back (!) with low neckline at front which probably had a bow or some ornament at the mid-front bodice (now gone).  You'd never know, and I should keep my mouth shut, but god knows, I can't!  Anyway, it's fine as is... I just think there was something there. Fully lined in cotton oil cloth in great condition.   The exterior has a few minor flaws.  There are underarm stains (see photos), unseen if displaying.  There is one pink spot at back, the ties are original but too short (must have frayed) and some surface dirt at hemline.  These are all VERY picky, minor issues!  Basically the gown at first look is near mint.  Measures:  33/34" bust, (12" back), 22" waist, 40" long from waist to hem in front, 57" long in back. SO small, hardly wearable today.

SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 00
(check measurements above)