I confess to a touch of the green eyed monster when I see brides lucky enough to walk down the aisle in a vintage wedding dress, one perhaps worn by their Mum, Grandma, or even both! I have always loved vintage fashion, the quality and elegance of eras past; but it’s not just the style I envy, it is the sentiment and history – the stories behind the gowns, the love remembered of a marriage that has lasted 25 or 50 years; there is nothing more beautiful! It is so meaningful and truly special to be able to wear a piece of history, especially on your wedding day.

Of course, if you’re not lucky enough to have an heirloom dress passed down to you, finding authentic vintage wedding dresses (not just vintage inspired!), particularly in near perfect condition, can be a painstaking and seemingly impossible project….. which is why I found myself staring at my screen overwhelmed with excitement and positively swooning when I came across The Vintage Mistress on Etsy…….

Have you ever seen anything so gorgeous? And that is just one of the many authentic and incredible wedding dresses you will find in The Vintage Mistress. Now, as I can only imagine the hours of dedication and love that is lavished into creating such a collection I was more than a little intrigued to discover more about the lady behind the store Elizabeth…..

“Nearly thirty years ago I discovered my life’s joy tucked inside my Grandmother’s cedar chest. I remember feeling the velvety softness of her purple wedding gown. Grandma Mildred came of age in the roaring 20s and exemplified the ultimate flapper girl. She taught me the history behind her dresses and textiles and she also gave me great pointers on creating my personal style. Early on, I knew what looked and felt best on me and this has helped me navigate the fads of the fashion world.

Jump thirty years forward and in 2009 ” The Vintage Mistress” was founded. By this time in my life I had amassed an expansive vintage clothing collection that trickled into my husband’s closet and needed a good “edit.” Opening a vintage boutique was the perfect solution to continue buying and then stocking my new shop with these fabulous finds!”

Aren’t they just spectacular? It is clear that to Elizabeth her store is so much more than a shop or a living, it is a passion and calling. The effort she puts into restoration work – properly cleaning, perfectly mending, and freshening up; is obvious from her beautifully simple photos. “I want my customers to receive their purchases in as superb condition as possible and ready to wear. I also have lots of fun finding unique little gifts to accompany my customer’s orders. What gal doesn’t like that extra something, unexpected, and indulgent?”…… I think I would be happy just receiving one of Elizabeth’s dresses!

Amy

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