Hand sewn satin Wedding dress 1950s

In the case of a synthetic fabric, it could be that whatever stained the dress also ate the holes, or weakened the fabric enough so that holes could happen.

 

Thanks! I'm not sure what the fabric is. It didn't occur to me that it might be synthetic. It's fairly substantial and satiny but textured.

 

Rayon has existed since the end of the Victorian era, IIRC, so you never know.

 

@i need help I'd be willing to bet that your dress is rayon satin - do you know how to do a fiber burn test? What I usually do with these gowns is soak them in the bath tub - first, line the tub with a clean sheet, fill with cool water and immerse the dress. No detergent first - many spots will disappear in plain water - let soak for a good long time, say 4-6 hours. Drain the tub, refill, gently agitate fabric, drain tub. Remove using the sheet only - allow the dress to stay within, since those old threads are weakest when wet. When most water has dripped away, hang the dress (outside in a covered area is ideal) and then reassess condition when dry.

I know there are good dry cleaners out there but I prefer to use them as a last resort, especially with vintage.

@Figtree3 - Sadly your dress may be beyond rescue. Can you take a few pics? I may be able to help.

 

Thank you, @Rufus@frockstarvintage -- I will try to get decent pics but as I looked at the dress (for the first time in quite a while) I agree that it is probably beyond rescue.

I am going out in a little while. So will see what I can do after I return.

 

Started a new thread about my dress: https://www.antiquers.com/threads/sad-condition-ice-blue-dress-1930s.28422/

 

I'm with @Rufus@frockstarvintage on washing this and his method..