Weddingbee boards

WOW!!! I just discovered the gown that was given to me a few years ago is actually a vintage wedding gown that has been altered at least once. 

Here's the background: My cousins owned a little thrift-type shop that took consignments.  The gown wasn't sold and the person never came back for it, so my cousins gave it to me to use whenever I get married.  I took it, figuring "what the heck, at least I won't have to look for one now!".  Also, I knew it could be altered. 

I JUST looked at the tag that says "Int. Ladies Garment Workers Union".  I also just googled it and it's a vintage wedding gown!!!

It's really GORGEOUS! 

The shot of the bottom didn't turn out, but it's a LOT of lace and tulle with lace around the edges.  It's a VERY long train to it, too.  It's a size 8, so it'll need a little altering to take it in to fit me, but... I'm wondering if I should swap the zipper for a lace-up back to go with the underbust bustier I'm going to be wearing...

Thoughts? Suggestions?  Should I leave it and just take it in or alter the back also?

yeah.... you're probably right.  The more I look at these pictures, the more I'm thinking I should just have it taken in to fit me. 

besides... zippered clothing is also easier to get in and out of ;)

thanks for the replies!  I'm still a bit surprised it's vintage!  (which probably means I should get a dressbag to tuck it in instead of the large plastic bag it's folded up and shoved in... lol). 

My FI likes the sleeves and neckline, and since we're having a fantasy wedding (and I mean fantasy as in anything found in fantasy/sci-fi movies & books lol) the vintage works perfectly. 

I'd soooo love to know the actual value of the gown... anyone have any ideas on how to find that out???

Thanks, ladies!! 

I did a few quick searches on google images and shopping and have found dresses similar but not exact.  The other thing that has me puzzled is the little blue tag inside, sewn in two spots, that has "Lot 31" written on it in pencil. 

The images that are similar are 70s and the base prices for similar dresses is between $129 & $195.  Not surprising, considering the economy.  Plus, vintage doesn't always mean expensive. 

My FI has an uncle who might know, but not sure when I'll be seeing the uncle or aunt!

I'll have to start flipping through the phone book to see if there is anyone who might have a good idea on the value of the gown. :)

thanks again!!!!

Thanks, Nexus-6. 

I'm pretty sure it's been altered because of the way the sleeves have been changed.  They just don't seem as smooth as they should be.  Also, the sleeves have been obviously changed. 

Here's a few more pictures of me wearing it.  My FI has already seen it (neither of us believes in superstitions) and he's who took the pics.

O.M.G.!  That almost identical to the gown I have!!!!  The difference is the sleeves!  Here's a closeup of the sleeves.

It's as though there is a cuff above the wrist, if that makes any sense.  Also, it has the little metal snaps instead of buttons. 

thanks sooo much for your help, Nexaus! 

The tag points to it being made between 1974-1995.  Considering the underskirt and undergown (or whatever you want to call what's below the lace) has yellowed with age.  The style, I have to agree, appears more vintage than modern. 

thanks for the links! 

regardless, my beloved likes the gown how it is and I'm not gonna argue him on it.  I'll have a beautiful silver and black brocade-type underbust bustier and jewelry, so that should give it the fantasy-feel I want.