VTG 40s Hess Ivory Skinner Satin Wedding and 17 similar items

Exquisite 1940s ivory wedding gown from Hess Brothers of Allentown, PA, a celebrated East Coast department store of the era. Crafted from luxurious Skinner satin rayon in candlelight ivory, with a luminous liquid drape. The gown features a sheer illusion yoke appliqued with Chantilly lace, a fitted bodice, and a dramatic cathedral-length train (84? from waist) with lace overlay that cascades to the hem. Fitted long sleeves close with six lace-covered buttons at each pointed cuff, completing the timeless silhouette. A breathtaking heirloom-quality bridal gown. Condition Very good vintage condition, strong and wearable. Minor imperfections: Tiny light marks at the bottom of the train (very subtle). One faint stain near the front hem. Small break in lace under the arm by side zipper (repairable). Very light underarm stains on the inside lining only, not visible outside. One 2" mark on Chantilly lace mid-back train. All consistent with age and wear; overall presents beautifully. Provenance Note Hess Brothers was a luxury department store in Allentown, Pennsylvania, founded in 1897 and known for high-fashion imports and designer collaborations. Their wedding gowns were prized for elegance and refinement. This example, in Skinner satin (a prestigious American textile mill known for couture-level satins), reflects the romantic glamour of 1940s bridal fashion. Surviving examples in this condition with intact lace yoke and train are rare. Style Aesthetics ? old Hollywood bridal ? museum-worthy bridalwear ? sustainable heirloom fashion Styling Tips A collector?s gown suitable for display, museum study, or heirloom bridal. Could be worn by an XS modern bride seeking authentic vintage elegance. Works for film, stage, or historical costume productions. Measurements (laid flat) Bust: 32" Waist: 24" Hips: Open Shoulders: 15" Waist to hem (back/train): 84" Sweep: almost full circle Approx. Modern Size: Women?s XS (US 0?2). Fit Guide: Best for ~5?2?5?5, 100?115 lbs. Fabric / Materials Ivory Skinner satin rayon, Chantilly lace applique, illusion yoke, lace-covered buttons. Sustainability Note Sustainably vintage ? 1940s bridal heirloom, not fast fashion. Costuming CTA Costuming a film, theater, or creative project? Contact Miss Kitty ? we have extensive vintage inventory not yet listed and can offer excellent bulk/volume discounts for productions. Thanks for Shopping at The Cats Pajamas! PLEASE ASK Miss Kitty any QUESTIONS BEFORE PURCHASING! Seriously, fire away! We love to chat and want to make sure you're doing a happy dance when your goodies arrive! RETURN POLICY: Our treasures are sold as final sale (no take-backsies!), but your satisfaction is our jam! We get it ? photos can only tell half the story, so don't be shy about those questions! CONDITION: All our finds are sold as-is, straight from a clean, smoke-free zone. Unless we've called out a specific "quirk," these beauties are flawless and ready to shine! SHIPPING: We're on it! Standard 2-day handling, or if you're in a hurry, zip, zap, zoom with 1-day express via UPS or FedEx! INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING: Hey globetrotters! Just a friendly heads-up: you're on the hook for any import taxes or customs fees. We play by the rules and give customs the full scoop, so no surprises there!