Debutante Clothing :: A vintage clothing and fashion blog for unconventional style where vintage and runway meet.

I used to love this show when I was younger and I believe that history does repeat itself. I'm working in the world of auctions now and am surrounded by pieces with a bit or a lot of history which can go for peanuts or a small fortune. Truly some of them are worthy of Ripley's Believe it or Not! Sometimes when I'm sitting in an auction I gasp out loud as I hear the bids increase and increase and increase and usually end up embarrassing myself.

Last week's auction at Kerry Taylor was a great example of believe it or not hammer prices with a number of the pieces well exceeding even her estimations.

For example:

Lot 57 A rare pair of grapefruit shaped bust improvers from the 1890s estimation of £400-£600 with a hammer price of £2400! I'm convinced that these were the original inspiration for the Wonderbra, my how times have changed!

Lot 94 An absolutely breathtaking rare Fortuny stenciled gown sold for £13,000 way over estimate. I can only dream of the wonderful and excitng adventures this dress once had!

Lot 130 A breathtaking Dior evening gown from 1952 with an estimate of £6000-£8000 hit a hammer price of £11,000. Oh the lucky person who won that! Gasp!

And many many more...I've only highlighted some of the older more historic pieces but even items as late as the year 2000 can be profitable. I hope that this update lights a fire under you or sparks a lightbulb so as you are rummaging through items at your local flea market or yard sale keep your eyes peeled for some vintage treasures! They may end up as seed money for your next vacation!

Stay tuned for our vintage antiques roadshow this fall via Debutante Clothing where you'll have the chance to show me and Sandra your latest finds!

Happy Hunting!

Jeanne

Jeanne Suica collaborates with a major auction house in searching for and evaluating pieces for upcoming auctions. Clients worldwide who may be interested in selling or consigning their items can email her images and questions regarding their items via her site www.jeannesuica.com