vintage and antique dress restoration
There is nothing more special than wearing a family heirloom antique or vintage gown for your wedding. Knowing that your dress has been worn by an older and loved generation who pass along the testament of a loving relationship and the solidarity of their commitment is an honored tradition and the reason so many dresses are saved.
At Vintage Bride we specialize in facilitating authentic vintage weddings. If you have a family heirloom wedding dress, veil, or any vintage or antique wedding item in need of restoration we are here to help.
Antique Art Nouveau Lace, Over 100 Years Old
vintage and antique wedding dress cleaning
Yellowing Removal, Brightening, Expert Stain Removal
Despite the best of intentions to store cherished items properly, after years in a box many old dresses develop a yellow colour from textile oxidation, or get little brown spots, called foxing, from cellulose transfer. These can all be removed by using proper cleaning techniques.
Our heritage cleaning process looks at each garment individually to assess the best method to clean a gown. Factors such as fabric content, textile weave, lace condition and design are all taken into consideration before proceeding. Our method is much preferred over traditional dry cleaning where the cleaning method is the same for every item.
By applying proper chemistry and textile analysis we can remove almost any stain, even one that has been embedded in the fabric for decades.
With over fourteen years of experience in dealing exclusively with vintage fabrics and antique textiles we are the best resource to consult when considering cleaning and restoring an heirloom gown.
Repair and restoration
Lace Repair, Button Replacement, Textile reinforcement
As textiles age the fibers naturally break down from exposure to air, light, dirt and moisture. This is true of every fabric, including synthetics, but especially so for vintage and antique textiles which are usually made from natural materials such as silk, cotton, linen and wool. The most beautiful fabrics such as antique lace, lightweight chiffon and organza are particularly at risk of becoming fragile with age, and those are often the most used for bridal attire.
We repair and restore vintage textiles, vintage lace wedding dresses and other antique lace items that are delicate with age.
Over the years we have amassed a large collection of old laces and bridal fabrics that we can use to repair and restore textiles that have sustained damage. Since we customarily repair and restore ALL of our vintage and antique dresses before the new owner wears it, we have an unparalleled amount of experience and knowledge of fixing techniques that are indiscernable when complete.
Repairing things is always a reward. We find contributing to sustainability and a circular economy very satisfying, but there is also a delight in seeing something beautiful returned to glory. If you have something lovely that needs repair please bring it in for a repair quote !
