December 29, 2011

Ask The Vixen: Preserving Vintage Wedding Gowns

Q: I recently acquired my grandmother's wedding gown and head piece. It's in ok condition, there are a few holes through out but that is all. It is over 50 years old and made of silk. I was wondering if you had any suggestions as to how I can store it properly to keep it from being damaged any further.

A: You wrote us with interest in preserving your grandmother's silk wedding gown and veil. The first thing to do in preparation for long-term storage is to clean the gown. A dry cleaner who is experienced with antique and vintage clothing would be ideal; some who advertise "wedding gown preservation" may be good, but others may not be especially well-educated in the area. J. Scheer and similar companies are renown for their expertise, though this high quality has a corresponding cost.

After it has been cleaned, handle the pieces with clean dry hands, or ideally, with plain white cotton gloves on. Buy a small amount of acid free tissue, enough to pack the gown inside to give it some amount of shape. Usually we pack the bodice and sleeves and roll the skirt and train gently up into a sleeping-bag type roll. Rolling avoids unnecessary creases.

The headpiece should be packed to maintain its shape and the veil rolled similarly. Get a large cardboard box (or even better, an acid-free box) and line its bottom and sides with acid free tissue, and place the gown in first with the veil above it. Make sure the box is large enough that it won't be crushed when closed. The box should not be air tight, because natural clothing fiber like silk has to "breathe" (i.e. expand and contract) with changes in temperature and humidity. Do check on the box after you've stowed it away, every 3 to 4 months. I hope this helps!

6 comments:

  1. Handloom silk sarees are traditional wear, the variety generally based on the region in India where the wedding is conducted. Wedding Dresses It is better for her if the wedding does not clash with her monthly rest.

    ReplyDelete
  2. We are specialists in casual and denim clothing and carry lifestyle products from Levi's®, PME Legend, Timezone, G-Star, Diesel, Replay, Tommy Hilfiger, Alberto, New Zealand Auckland, Ragwear and Gipsy brands. We attach great importance to good advice.
    Jeans Shop

    ReplyDelete
  3. birthday wishes to mom You may check our compilation which is full of best birthday wishes for mother along with sweet, cute, funny and emotional words for mother.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I needed to visit and tell you that finding your site today was so significant. I'm regarded to have the option to work at my deals office, work with the tips gave on your site and partake in such guest surveys. On the off chance that a visitor essayist position is presented on your side, I energetically suggest you telling me Columbus GA

    ReplyDelete
  5. Preserve the timeless elegance of vintage wedding gowns with expert care and attention. Entrust this delicate task to specialists who understand the historical and sentimental value. For meticulous preservation, consider the best dissertation writing services in Dubai. Ensure your cherished memories are safeguarded with precision and expertise.

    ReplyDelete
  6. What a thoughtful way to preserve such cherished family heirlooms! Your attention to detail in cleaning and packing the gown and headpiece is commendable. It's clear you're dedicated to ensuring their longevity for generations to come. Bravo!
    new york state divorce mediation
    new york state divorce alimony

    ReplyDelete