(9.13) This goes way beyond bridal. Carmen & Ginger proprietor Christine Francis will be selling a unique collection of never-worn brides and bridesmaids dresses from the 40’s and 50’s at the Providence Flea this Sunday. Creative types found off the beaten bridal path — apparel design students, theater costumers, Halloweeners — may also want to stop by. (I don’t want to scare off the brides; these dresses are quite lovely. It’s just that a good ol’ bottle of black azabache Rit creates vast new possibilities and will increase use-value.) Check out the fabric, the detailing, the sheer heft of these garments with their covered buttons, shirring, beading, and appliqués. And at such low low prices! Steam out the wrinkles and you’re good to go. (Groom optional.) Many more pictures go here.
Carmen & Ginger and Archetype Vintage bought out a collection of sample dresses from a bridal shop that closed in the 1950’s. We are bringing a boatload of the dresses – mostly 1940’s slipper satin wedding gowns, and, 1940’s and 1950’s bridesmaid dresses – to the Flea for a flat price of $30 each or two for $50. The dresses at the event will be perfect for reselling, repurposing, patterning, overdying, modifying, or, fun costumes! Many of the bridesmaid dresses have some storage fade to the dyes but are perfect for experimentation with overdying as they have actually never been worn and are structurally sound. All of the bridal dresses are different from each other, as they were samples, and, include wonderful detailing, especially at the necklines. Sale will begin promptly at 10:00 am. We will also have some separates priced at $15-$20 and bargain $10 and $5 bins! This is a one time event, at the last outdoor Providence Flea of the season!
No early birds please. Facebook event page.
10am to 4pm, Sunday, September 13, Providence Flea, 345 South Water Street, (directions)