I’ve been helping a friend clean out his garage and, while doing so, we came across wedding dress which his mother gave him before she died (it’s not what you think – his parents didn’t have any daughters). His mother told him it was the wedding dress dating from 1836, or thereabouts. Neither of us know anything about antiques, so I thought I’d ask you folks. I’m assuming it’s likely to be worth something, but I’ve got no idea how much. Donating it to a historical society might also be an option. Since I realize the definition of “old” varies by country, my friend and I are both in the US.
No, I’d take it to a historical society before you even THINK of WEARING it! Get it appraised. Seriously, you should NEVER think of wearing something that old without getting an idea of the condition and whether or not it would have to be altered. And even then I’d think twice.
I would definitely get some expert help. Anyone wearing it might be out of the question, depending on the fabric’s condition, which I would guess isn’t all that great by now. Contact a local museum and consider donating it, perhaps. Or at least get advice on how to properly store/display it if you decide on keeping it. Best of luck—what a great find!
Does your friend have any daughters (or might he have daughters in the future)? Unless he needs the money, I would recommend saving it for them (or for perhaps another close (relationship-wise, not genetic-wise) relative, like a favorite niece or something). There’s more important things than money.
Perhaps the people at the eBay vintage clothing message board could help you? The regulars there are quite friendly and seem to really know their stuff. I’ve seen heaps of people posting pictures of vintage clothes they aren’t sure about, and it would help you get an idea of value, and where to go from here.
Even if it’s in good condition, if you want to preserve it, I would strongly reccomend against wearing it, because that could be a potential disaster-especially for a wedding. You might spill something on it, step on it, etc.
Thanks for the help. His daughter’s already married, so passing it on to her is probably out, although I will urge him to mention it to her. I’m leaning strongly toward donating it to a museum or historical society. Then again, I’ve just spent a day with a few archaeologists, so my biases are showing. I’ll check out some of the other sites you’ve given me as well.
