Are you the proud owner of a vintage 1985 wedding dress and curious about its worth? With the resurgence of vintage fashion, many brides are discovering that their beloved gowns could be worth a small fortune. However, it can be challenging to know where to start when determining the value of a vintage wedding dress. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of wedding dresses from 1985 and the factors that determine their value in today’s market.
A vintage wedding dress is a piece of history that can hold immense sentimental value, but it can also be a valuable investment. The nostalgia and craftsmanship of vintage gowns are highly sought after by collectors and modern brides alike. Whether you’re considering selling your dress or simply want to learn more about its value, understanding the factors that contribute to its worth is crucial.
Join us as we delve into the world of vintage wedding dresses and discover how to properly store, sell, and value your cherished garment. With expert insights and practical tips, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking the potential of your 1985 wedding dress.
Are you ready to uncover the hidden value of your vintage wedding dress? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about these timeless treasures.
Learn the History Behind 1985 Wedding Dresses
As the 1980s were drawing to a close, wedding dresses were becoming more elaborate and grandiose than ever before. Bold and bright colors were replaced with more traditional ivory and white gowns, often embellished with sequins and lace. Princess Diana’s iconic 1981 wedding dress inspired a generation of brides, with puffy sleeves and full skirts becoming increasingly popular.
The 1980s also saw the emergence of the power suit, and bridal designers weren’t immune to the trend. Many brides chose to swap out the traditional dress for a tailored white suit, complete with a skirt or pants. Meanwhile, the shoulder pads that defined 80s fashion found their way onto wedding dresses, adding structure and shape to gowns.
While many brides still opted for a long, flowing gown, the 80s also saw the emergence of the tea-length wedding dress. Perfect for an informal or destination wedding, these dresses typically fell just below the knee, and were often worn with statement shoes. Alongside the tea-length dress, asymmetrical hemlines were also in vogue, with dresses featuring a high-low hemline that showed off the bride’s shoes.
The 1980s were a decade of excess, and wedding dresses were no exception. Gowns were adorned with extravagant details such as bows, ruffles, and tiers of tulle. Bridal designers like Vera Wang and Carolina Herrera made their debuts in the 1980s, bringing with them a new level of luxury and sophistication to the world of wedding fashion.
Today, 1985 wedding dresses hold a special place in the hearts of those who wore them. Whether you’re looking to sell your vintage wedding dress or simply curious about its value, understanding the history and trends of the era is key to unlocking its true worth.
The Popularity of Puffy Sleeves and Ruffles in 1985
In the 1980s, wedding dresses with puffy sleeves and ruffles were all the rage. The voluminous sleeves were a statement piece that added drama and romance to the gown, while the ruffles added a touch of playfulness and femininity.
Princess Diana’s iconic wedding dress with its puffy sleeves and extravagant ruffles undoubtedly influenced the trend. Her dress was a true reflection of the time, as it embodied the grandeur and extravagance of the era.
Many designers, including Vera Wang and Christian Lacroix, incorporated puffy sleeves and ruffles into their bridal collections, making the trend accessible to brides of all budgets.
- While the 1980s may be long gone, the puffy sleeve and ruffle trend has made a comeback in recent years, with designers like Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera featuring them in their collections.
- If you’re looking for a wedding dress with a vintage touch, a gown from 1985 may be the perfect choice. With puffy sleeves and ruffles, you’ll have a dress that embodies the romantic and playful spirit of the era.
- While some may think that puffy sleeves and ruffles are outdated, they continue to be a popular choice for many brides.
Overall, the popularity of puffy sleeves and ruffles in 1985 can be attributed to the desire for grandeur, extravagance, and romance. These trends may have faded away over time, but they continue to inspire and influence the bridal fashion world today.
The Influence of Princess Diana’s Wedding on 1985 Bridal Fashion
Princess Diana’s iconic wedding dress had a significant influence on bridal fashion in 198The dress, designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, featured a dramatic train and puffy sleeves that became a staple of 1980s bridal fashion. The dress was made of ivory silk taffeta, antique lace, and 10,000 pearls, and it inspired countless imitations.
The dress also popularized the use of sheer fabrics, which had been uncommon in bridal fashion. The Emanuel’s use of a sheer, billowing veil made of 140 yards of tulle, along with the princess’s iconic tiara, set a new standard for bridal elegance.
The princess’s dress also had an impact on the color of wedding dresses. Prior to her wedding, white wedding dresses were uncommon, but after her wedding, white became the most popular color for wedding dresses. Her dress symbolized purity and innocence, and it set the tone for future bridal trends.
The Evolution of 1985 Wedding Dress Fabrics and Silhouettes
Wedding dresses of the 1980s saw a shift in fabric choices and silhouettes. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and rayon were popular, often used for their durability and affordability. Lace was still a popular choice, but the patterns were larger and bolder than in previous decades.
The 1985 bride often chose princess-style gowns, with a fitted bodice and a full, flowing skirt. These gowns often featured long trains, and sometimes even detachable skirts. Shoulder pads were also a popular addition to the dresses, giving the brides a powerful and regal look.
In the mid-1980s, some brides began to embrace more fitted and streamlined styles. The mermaid silhouette became popular, hugging the body to just above the knees and then flaring out dramatically. The ballgown also remained a popular choice, with a fitted bodice and a very full skirt, often made from tulle or organza.
Is It Worth Selling Your Vintage Wedding Dress?
If you’re wondering whether to part ways with your vintage wedding dress, you may be curious about its current value. Before you decide to sell it, there are a few factors to consider.
The first thing to keep in mind is the condition of the dress. Is it in excellent condition or does it show signs of wear and tear? Another factor to consider is the popularity of the style in today’s market.
While certain vintage styles may have increased in popularity over time, others may have lost their appeal. It’s important to research the current trends and demand for vintage wedding dresses to help determine the potential value.
Another thing to consider is the sentimental value attached to the dress. If the dress has been in the family for generations or holds a special memory, it may be worth keeping rather than selling.
Ultimately, the decision to sell your vintage wedding dress depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. If you do decide to sell it, there are several avenues to explore, including online marketplaces, consignment shops, and specialty vintage stores.
Factors that Affect the Value of Your Vintage Wedding Dress
Designer: The designer of the dress is a major factor in determining its value. Dresses designed by iconic fashion designers such as Vera Wang or Christian Dior are likely to be worth more.
Condition: The condition of the dress is also crucial in determining its value. Dresses in excellent condition, with no signs of wear and tear or damage, will be worth more than those in poor condition.
Rarity: The rarity of the dress can also play a significant role in determining its value. If the dress was only produced in limited quantities or is a unique, one-of-a-kind piece, it can be worth more.
It’s essential to keep these factors in mind when considering selling your vintage wedding dress. By understanding the value of your dress, you can ensure that you receive a fair price for it.
The Pros and Cons of Selling Your Vintage Wedding Dress
If you’re considering selling your vintage wedding dress, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider:
- Pro: You can make some extra money. Vintage wedding dresses can often fetch a high price, especially if they’re in good condition and from a well-known designer.
- Con: It can be hard to let go. Your wedding dress likely has sentimental value, and selling it may feel like giving away a piece of your history.
- Pro: It can free up storage space. Wedding dresses take up a lot of room, and if you’re not planning on passing it down to future generations, selling it can clear up some much-needed storage space.
- Con: It can be difficult to find the right buyer. Vintage wedding dresses may not be in high demand in your area, and finding the right buyer may take some time and effort.
Ultimately, the decision to sell your vintage wedding dress is a personal one. Consider your emotional attachment to the dress, as well as your financial and practical needs, before making a decision.
How to Determine the Right Selling Price for Your Vintage Wedding Dress
When it comes to selling your vintage wedding dress, determining the right selling price can be tricky. Here are some factors to consider:
- Condition: The condition of your dress plays a significant role in determining its value. If it’s in excellent condition with no stains, tears, or damages, you can ask for a higher price.
- Rarity: The rarer the dress, the more valuable it is. If your dress is a unique or one-of-a-kind piece, you can ask for a higher price.
- Designer: Designer wedding dresses are usually more valuable. If your dress was designed by a famous designer, it could command a higher price.
Once you have considered these factors, you can start researching the market and see what similar dresses are selling for. Take note of their condition, designer, and rarity to get a better idea of what price range your dress should fall under. You can also consult with a vintage wedding dress expert to help you determine the right selling price.
Keep in mind that pricing your dress too high could make it difficult to sell, while pricing it too low could result in a loss of potential profit. So, it’s essential to find the right balance and set a fair selling price for both you and the buyer.
Where to Sell Your Vintage Wedding Dress Online
If you’ve decided to sell your vintage wedding dress, you may be wondering where to start. Here are some online platforms to consider:
Etsy: This online marketplace is known for its handmade and vintage items, making it a great place to sell your vintage wedding dress.
Stillwhite: This website is specifically designed for buying and selling second-hand wedding dresses, making it a popular choice for brides-to-be.
PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com: Another website dedicated to selling pre-owned wedding dresses. This platform also allows you to list bridesmaid dresses and other wedding-related items.
The Best Websites for Selling Your Vintage Wedding Dress
If you’re looking to sell your vintage wedding dress online, there are several websites that can help. Here are three of the best options:
Still White: This website is dedicated to the sale of pre-owned wedding dresses, making it a great place to sell your vintage gown. It’s easy to list your dress and they offer a range of payment and shipping options to ensure a smooth transaction.
Tradesy: This website allows you to sell not only wedding dresses, but also other wedding-related items such as shoes and accessories. They have a user-friendly platform and offer a secure payment system for buyers and sellers.
Etsy: Known for its handmade and vintage items, Etsy is a great platform to sell your vintage wedding dress. You can list your dress and set your own price, and the website takes a small commission on each sale.
When choosing a website to sell your vintage wedding dress, it’s important to consider the fees and commission rates, as well as the platform’s reputation and user base. With these top options, you’re sure to find the perfect place to sell your treasured gown.
How to Properly Store Your Vintage Wedding Dress
Clean it first: Before storing your vintage wedding dress, make sure to have it professionally cleaned by a specialist in order to remove any stains or dirt that may have accumulated over time. It is important to use a specialist who has experience in dealing with delicate fabrics and vintage clothing, as they will know how to properly handle and clean your dress.
Choose the right storage container: When storing your vintage wedding dress, it is important to choose the right storage container. Avoid plastic bags or containers as they can trap moisture, which can lead to mildew or mold. Instead, opt for a breathable fabric garment bag or acid-free archival box, which will protect your dress from dust and light.
Store in a cool, dry place: Make sure to store your vintage wedding dress in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Avoid storing your dress in an attic or basement as these areas tend to be damp and can cause damage to the fabric over time. A closet in a temperature-controlled room is an ideal place to store your dress.
Avoid touching the fabric: When handling your vintage wedding dress, avoid touching the fabric with your bare hands as the oils from your skin can cause discoloration or damage over time. Instead, wear gloves or handle the dress with clean hands or a cotton cloth.
Check on it regularly: Make sure to check on your vintage wedding dress periodically, at least once a year, to ensure that it is still in good condition. If you notice any damage or discoloration, take your dress to a specialist for repairs or cleaning.
Choosing the Right Storage Location for Your Vintage Wedding Dress
When it comes to storing your vintage wedding dress, the location is key. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right storage location:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Home Storage | – Convenient and accessible – No additional cost | – Prone to humidity, light, and temperature changes – Increased risk of damage or discoloration – May take up valuable space |
| Professional Storage | – Controlled environment – Specialized preservation techniques – Insurance options available | – Additional cost – Limited accessibility |
| Family Heirloom | – Sentimental value – Historical significance | – Prone to damage over time – Limited accessibility |
Ultimately, the decision on where to store your vintage wedding dress depends on your priorities, budget, and the value you place on preserving it for future generations to enjoy.
How to Clean and Preserve Your Vintage Wedding Dress
Proper cleaning and preservation of your vintage wedding dress are crucial for its longevity. To start, inspect the dress for any stains or damages that need to be addressed. It is best to seek professional help to avoid further damage to the fabric.
When it comes to cleaning, make sure to use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can cause discoloration and damage.
After cleaning, it’s essential to store your dress properly to prevent further damage. Consider using acid-free tissue paper or muslin cloth to wrap the dress, and store it in a cool, dry, and dark place to avoid exposure to sunlight and moisture.
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Wedding Dress Preservationist
Expertise: Professional wedding dress preservationists have the knowledge and experience to properly clean and preserve your vintage wedding dress. They use specialized techniques and materials to ensure the dress remains in good condition for years to come.
Prolonged Lifespan: By properly preserving your vintage wedding dress, you can extend its lifespan and prevent it from deteriorating over time. This means that you can pass it down to future generations as a cherished heirloom.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vintage wedding dress is in the hands of a professional preservationist can provide peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about any potential damage that could occur if you attempted to clean or preserve the dress yourself.
What Influences the Value of a Vintage Wedding Dress?
When it comes to vintage wedding dresses, several factors can influence their value. One of the most significant factors is the era in which the dress was made. Dresses from certain eras, such as the 1920s or 1950s, are more sought after than others and can command a higher price.
Designer is another factor that can significantly impact the value of a vintage wedding dress. Dresses created by well-known designers such as Vera Wang, Christian Dior, or Givenchy are likely to be more valuable than those made by lesser-known designers.
The condition of the dress is also crucial. Dresses that are in excellent condition, with no stains, tears, or signs of wear, are likely to be more valuable than those with significant damage or alterations. Additionally, dresses that have been professionally cleaned and preserved are typically worth more than those that haven’t.
Age and Rarity of the Wedding Dress
Age is one of the most significant factors affecting the value of a vintage wedding dress. Generally, the older a dress is, the more valuable it becomes, especially if it is in good condition. A dress from the 1920s or 1930s, for example, is considered highly valuable due to its historical significance and rarity.
Rarity is another factor that affects the value of a vintage wedding dress. A dress that was produced in limited quantities or is a one-of-a-kind design is typically more valuable than one that was mass-produced. For example, a vintage dress designed by a famous designer that was only produced in a limited quantity is highly sought after and valuable.
Condition is also crucial in determining the value of a vintage wedding dress. A dress that has been well-preserved and is in excellent condition can command a higher price than one that is worn, stained, or has damage. Even minor damage or discoloration can significantly affect the value of a vintage dress.
The Designer of the Wedding Dress
One of the key factors that influences the value of a vintage wedding dress is the designer who created it. Wedding dresses designed by high-end designers like Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, and Christian Dior are typically worth more than those designed by lesser-known designers or mass-produced brands.
In addition, vintage wedding dresses designed by iconic designers from the mid-20th century, such as Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli, and Norman Hartnell, are highly sought after by collectors and can command very high prices at auction.
On the other hand, dresses designed by more contemporary designers may not have the same level of historical significance or collectability, but can still command high prices if the designer is highly acclaimed and in-demand among modern brides.
The Top 10 Most Valuable Vintage Wedding Dresses
If you’re looking to invest in a vintage wedding dress, here are the top 10 most valuable dresses to consider:
Grace Kelly’s Wedding Dress: Designed by Helen Rose, this iconic dress features a high neck, long sleeves, and a fitted bodice.
Queen Victoria’s Wedding Dress: Worn in 1840, this dress set the standard for white wedding dresses.
Audrey Hepburn’s Wedding Dress: Designed by Pierre Balmain, this tea-length dress was worn during her second wedding in 1969.
Kate Middleton’s Wedding Dress: Designed by Sarah Burton, this dress features lace sleeves and a fitted bodice with a flowing skirt.
Princess Diana’s Wedding Dress: Designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, this dress features a full skirt and a 25-foot-long train.
Marilyn Monroe’s Wedding Dress: This dress was designed by Anne Lowe and worn by Monroe during her marriage to Joe DiMaggio in 1954.
Gwen Stefani’s Wedding Dress: Designed by John Galliano, this dip-dyed pink dress features a full skirt and a fitted bodice.
Yoko Ono’s Wedding Dress: Designed by John Lennon, this white minidress was worn during their wedding in 1969.
Princess Anne’s Wedding Dress: Designed by Maureen Baker, this Tudor-style dress was worn during her marriage to Captain Mark Phillips in 1973.
10. Elizabeth Taylor’s First Wedding Dress: Designed by Helen Rose, this dress features a fitted bodice and a full skirt with a train.
Grace Kelly’s Wedding Dress
History: Grace Kelly’s wedding dress is one of the most famous and iconic wedding dresses of all time. Designed by MGM’s head costume designer Helen Rose, the dress was made of silk taffeta, with a fitted bodice and a full skirt made of antique Brussels lace. The dress was completed with a veil made of tulle, a lace headdress, and a bouquet of lilies of the valley.
Value: The dress is highly sought after by collectors and has been estimated to be worth between $250,000 and $400,000.
Influence: Grace Kelly’s wedding dress has had a lasting impact on bridal fashion, with its elegant and timeless design inspiring countless wedding dresses over the years.
Audrey Hepburn’s Wedding Dress
Audrey Hepburn is a style icon, and her wedding dress was no exception. Hepburn’s first marriage to Mel Ferrer in 1954 featured a tea-length dress designed by Balmain. The dress was made of fine Brussels lace, and Hepburn paired it with elbow-length gloves and a floral headdress.
The simplicity of Hepburn’s dress is what makes it so iconic. The tea-length cut was unique for a wedding dress at the time, and the dress has influenced many designs since. The combination of the delicate lace and Hepburn’s understated elegance is a perfect example of the actress’s enduring style.
The dress has not been sold at auction, so its value is unknown. However, the influence of the dress on bridal fashion cannot be overstated. Hepburn’s dress is a timeless example of how simplicity and elegance can make a statement.
Queen Victoria’s Wedding Dress
Queen Victoria’s wedding dress is one of the most famous vintage wedding dresses in history. The dress was made in 1840, and its most striking feature was the white silk satin fabric. At the time, white was not a traditional color for wedding dresses, and Victoria’s choice started a trend that has lasted to this day.
The dress was designed by court dressmaker William Dyce and was adorned with lace and orange blossoms. The dress also had a train measuring over six meters long, which was carried by 12 bridesmaids. Victoria’s wedding dress set a new standard for wedding fashion, and many women began to emulate her style.
The dress is now on display at Kensington Palace in London and is considered a national treasure. It has also been the inspiration for many modern wedding dresses, with designers drawing on its classic style and timeless elegance.
Kate Middleton’s Wedding Dress
When Kate Middleton married Prince William in 2011, she wore a stunning wedding dress designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen. The dress was made of ivory satin and featured intricate lace detailing.
The dress’s value has only increased since the wedding, with many considering it to be one of the most iconic wedding dresses of all time. The dress’s high value is due in part to the popularity of Kate Middleton and the royal family, as well as the skill and artistry of the designer.
While the exact value of the dress is unknown, it is estimated to be worth several hundred thousand dollars. In addition to the dress itself, the accessories that Kate Middleton wore on her wedding day, such as her tiara and veil, are also highly sought after by collectors.
Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
Royal Wedding – On May 19, 2018, Meghan Markle wore a stunning Givenchy wedding dress designed by Clare Waight Keller for her marriage to Prince Harry. The dress was made of double-bonded silk cady and featured a boat neckline, three-quarter-length sleeves, and a sweeping train. The simple, elegant design was complemented by a 16-foot veil that featured hand-embroidered flowers representing the countries of the British Commonwealth.
The dress reportedly cost around $265,000, making it one of the most expensive royal wedding dresses in history. However, the true value of the dress lies in its significance as a symbol of diversity and inclusion, with Meghan being the first biracial woman to marry into the British royal family.
The dress has since become iconic, with many brides seeking to emulate Meghan’s style on their own wedding day. The designer, Clare Waight Keller, has also become a household name, cementing her position as one of the top designers in the fashion industry.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Wedding Dress
Iconic: Elizabeth Taylor is known for her glamorous style, and her wedding dress was no exception. Her gown, which she wore to marry Conrad Hilton in 1950, was a beautiful satin dress with a fitted bodice and a full skirt.
Designer: The dress was designed by MGM’s head costume designer, Helen Rose. Rose was a highly respected designer, and her creations were worn by many of the most famous actresses of the day.
Details: The dress featured a sweetheart neckline, long sleeves, and a full skirt. It was made of satin and had a built-in corset to give Elizabeth Taylor the perfect hourglass figure. The dress also featured a 10-yard train that was embroidered with silver thread and bugle beads.
Princess Diana’s Wedding Dress
Iconic and legendary, Princess Diana’s wedding dress is one of the most memorable bridal gowns in history. Designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, the dress featured a voluminous skirt and a fitted bodice adorned with lace and sequins.
The dress was made with a 25-foot train and a 153-yard veil, which was made of tulle and embellished with embroidery and sequins. The dress reportedly cost around £9,000 at the time, which is equivalent to approximately £36,000 ($50,000) today.
Princess Diana’s dress is now considered a cultural treasure and is on display at Kensington Palace in London. Its value is estimated to be in the millions, making it one of the most valuable wedding dresses in history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors determine the value of a wedding dress?
Age, rarity, designer, and condition are factors that determine the value of a wedding dress. The market for vintage wedding dresses is also a factor.
How can I determine if my 1985 wedding dress is valuable?
The value of a wedding dress from 1985 depends on its condition, designer, and rarity. You can consult with a vintage clothing expert or appraiser to determine its value.
What are some popular vintage wedding dress designers?
Some popular vintage wedding dress designers include Vera Wang, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent. Other designers may also be popular depending on the era and style of the dress.
Can a wedding dress from 1985 be worth a lot of money?
It is possible for a wedding dress from 1985 to be worth a lot of money, depending on its designer, rarity, and condition. Some vintage wedding dresses from the 1980s have sold for thousands of dollars at auction.