This 19th century wedding dress and a going-away dress that were worn in 1829 caught my eye in a Bonham's sale., The cream figured silk wedding dress has a high waist, short puffed sleeves, pleated detailing around the open neckline and a padded hem, opening down the centre back with hook and eye fastenings; the going-away dress is of a beige crepe, with a high waistline with chiffon and button detailing to the bodice and hem, with puff ball short sleeves with silk satin contrast.
Hilary Menzies, who inherited the 1829 heirlooms from her mother, said the outfits were first worn by her great-great-great grandmother on her wedding day 190 years ago. “It was worn by Davida Sutherland during her marriage to John Geddes, and the going away dress was worn during her honeymoon. I don’t know all the history, but the wedding gown was then passed down to her daughter Margaret Geddes, who we think also wore the dress. She married Thomas McLauchlin who was head of the Free Church of Scotland. Since then, the dresses have been passed down our family until they reached us.”
Mrs Menzies has decided to sell the family heirlooms because she wanted to make sure they were looked after properly. “The dresses are so beautiful, but they are very delicate. I think if I was looking after them they’d be eaten by moths within five minutes. The family is sad to see them go but we think this will be for the best and will ensure they are preserved for many years to come.”
They are to be sold at Bonhams at their 28 July sale at Knowle and are expected to fetch between £2 and £3,000.
