Vintage is cool again in the world of fashion, and that includes vintage wedding gowns. In fact, the number of brides who decide to go the vintage route for their wedding day is increasing. Not only do vintage dresses offer a romantic and whimsical feel to a wedding, but many of the dresses being worn are family heirlooms, which ups the sentimental value of the entire ordeal. While vintage gowns are great, there can be pitfalls associated with them, specifically figuring out how to restore them to their former glory and make them look somewhat modern. Wedding gown restoration is a growing market, so if you decide to go this route, we are sure your dress can be restored to its former glory. Before you head out to get your dress restored, though, there are a few things you should know.
What is the biggest issues associated with vintage wedding gown restoration?
Vintage wedding dresses may yellow over time. The reason is simple; the way dresses were preserved 40 years ago is different than how they are being preserved today. Yellowing of fabric is the biggest issue that faces many restoration specialists. Thankfully, a professional with experience in restoration knows exactly what needs to be done. Before you go this route, you’ll want to meet with your restoration specialist and discuss your expectations. A good professional will be able to tell you what can and can not be done, and what you can expect from the services.
Does wedding gown restoration ever fail?
Sadly, not all dresses can be saved and restored. This is why finding an honest professional is so important. Most will be able to tell you exactly what you are up against with a vintage gown. Sometimes the fabric is too fragile to be worked with, and pieces of the dress will need to be swapped out for new material. Again, working closely with your restoration specialist will help you figure out what can and can not be done to your vintage gown.
Can wedding gown restoration specialists modernize dresses?
Many restoration specialists also employ individuals to help redesign and modernize dresses. You can change a vintage wedding gown to better fit your wants and needs. For example, a dress can have sleeves removed, buttons added, and necklines lowered to create a modern dress out of a wedding dress that is 40 or more years old.
Are there any other limitations on wedding dress restoration?
Vintage dresses can be taken in and let out to a certain degree, but a designer can not necessarily grow the dress several sizes. This will compromise the integrity of the gown. Most wedding gown restoration specialists prefer if the dress is within two sizes of what the bride needs. This makes their job easier, and ensures the integrity of the dress stays intact. If you have a dress that is far too big or far too small for your needs, many restoration specialists suggest seeing a designer who can help you recreate the vintage dress in your proportions. Pieces of the original dress can also be used in a new gown to keep the sentimental value of the dress intact for your wedding day.
Wedding gown restoration services is a growing industry, and techniques and processes are constantly changing to accommodate the specific needs of brides wishing to wear vintage gowns. If this is a avenue you are considering, consider meeting with specialists to discuss your vintage gown and what needs to be done to restore it to its former glory.
