Helen MacDonald's Wedding Dress
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Helen MacDonald
SeamstressSewn by
Helen MacDonald
MakerMade by
G. Fox and Co.
(American, founded 1847)
MakerMade by
William Skinner & Sons
(American, 1874 - 1961)
Date1958-1961
MediumSilk, lace, tulle, beads, metal
DimensionsDress (overall dress length): 73 1/2in. (186.7cm)
Bodice (lace bodice overall length): 16in. (40.6cm)
Other (overall length of veil): 26in. (66cm)
Other (diameter of roses): 4in. (10.2cm)
Bodice (lace bodice overall length): 16in. (40.6cm)
Other (overall length of veil): 26in. (66cm)
Other (diameter of roses): 4in. (10.2cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Marilyn Steele
DescriptionA silk wedding dress made by Helen MacDonald in 1961. The lace was purchased in Spain in 1958, while the donor was in Europe ice skating. The cap and veil were made by G. Fox, and the silk for the dress was purchased from Skinner Mills in Holyoke, Massachusetts. The silk wedding dress is strapless with boning inside the bodice, a zipper on the back from the waist to the top of bodice. Bustle on back of dress at waist. Silk roses were likely attached along the waist on back of dress. Lace top worn over wedding dress has short sleeves and ends at the waist. Ten silk covered buttons closed the top in the back. Cap is lace with pearl beading along the edges and has a tulle veil. Extra silk pieces included with donation.
(a) wedding dress
(b) lace top
(c) veil
(d-i) silk roses
(j) buttons
(k) extra silk fabric
(a) wedding dress
(b) lace top
(c) veil
(d-i) silk roses
(j) buttons
(k) extra silk fabric
Object number2015.109.4a-k
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