Vintage 1930s Lace Wedding Dress Gown Cathedral Train Bias Cut XXS Petite Project
An ethereal Late 1930s Old Hollywood wedding gown featuring a breathtaking 90-inch cathedral lace train. Features a bias-cut slip, ruffled bertha collar, and long buttoned sleeves. This is a rare, authentic vintage piece sold as a restoration project due to its petite size (XXS) and condition issues.
Measurements:
Bust (Pit to Pit): 28 inches
Waist: 22 inches
Front Length (Shoulder to Hem): 52 inches
Back Length (Shoulder to End of Train): ~90 inches
Fits Like: Modern XXS / 00 (Please verify measurements carefully)
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More about this Item
Every once in a while, we find a dress that stops us in our tracks. This is an authentic Late 1930s to early 1940s wedding gown that radiates Old Hollywood decadence. She was saved from the elements and carefully cleaned, revealing the stunning creamy white cotton lace you see today.
The Silhouette: True to the 1930s, the lining is cut on the bias, designed to skim the body and drape effortlessly. The dress features a sheer illusion netting yoke topped with a romantic ruffled “Bertha” collar that highlights the shoulders. The bodice is fitted, leading to a skirt that explodes into a massive, dramatic 90-inch cathedral train. The closure is a series of metal hooks and eyes along the side—a hallmark of pre-war construction.
Why she is a “Wounded Bird” (Condition): We have fallen in love with her, but she needs a savior. She is being sold AS-IS for restoration, study, or design.
Holes: There are several breaks in the lace. Notably, there is a hole in the skirt that goes through to the lining, and another approximately 2 feet down on the front.
Rust Stains: The original fabric-covered buttons on the sleeves have rusted internally, leaving orange/brown spots on the cuffs and surrounding lace. We recommend removing and replacing these buttons.
Size: This dress is EXTREMELY PETITE. With a 22-inch waist, it is an XXS or modern teen size.
Restoration Potential: The lace itself is strong and vibrant after cleaning. A skilled mender could patch the holes (the lace texture hides repairs well). If the rust cannot be lifted, the sleeves could be shortened or the lace harvested for a veil or christening gown. The 90-inch train alone contains yards of precious antique lace.





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