Vintage Wedding Dresses & Antique Lace

With the highly anticipated Wedding Dresses exhibition at the V&A open this week we thought we'd take the chance to remind you of the collection of original period wedding gowns and accessories here at Alfies. With a collective of luxury vintage fashion dealers under one roof, brides-to-be are sure to find the perfect dress. The stunning collection includes Great Gatsby-esque silk gowns, sequinned flapper dresses, glamorous 1940s bias cut styles, delicate Irish lace and embellished accessories.  Alfies also has an in-house dressmaker available to make alterations or even create something bespoke.

Antique lace gown and veil from Sheelin Lace London.

19th century applique lace shawl, from Sheelin Lace London. 

19th century Carrickmacross lace veil, from Sheelin Lace London

Rosemary Cathcart of Sheelin Lace London has several wedding pieces in her fairytale shop on the first floor.  Lace veils, stoles, wedding gowns, jackets and also beautiful lace head pieces and vintage diamante tiaras are just some of the items available.  Rosemary believes “the advantage of buying an antique wedding gown is the fact it will be hand made and original. You are also buying a work of art, especially if you choose an antique handmade lace dress, which will only increase in value.”   

1950s beaded bags from Sheelin Lace London

It takes a little more time to find the perfect vintage dress as each one is different and sizing is unique.  The experienced dealers at Alfies can advise on style and sizing.  Rosemary says “the main thing to look for when buying an antique dress is the condition. It needs to be in good condition and strong enough to wear.” 

As well as bridal wear, Alfies is also a top spot to find one of a kind bridesmaid dresses or something to wear as a guest.  Velvet Atelier on the first floor have some great party pieces on offer, from formal evening gowns to fun, colourful numbers like this pink pom pom covered 1950s dress (below).

Vintage dresses from Velvet Atelier

Alfies Antique Market is open from Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-6pm and is just a few minutes walk from Marylebone and Edgware Road tube stations.  On the very top floor find the Roof Top Kitchen, perfect for afternoon tea or a glass of wine after shopping.