The pages in this lovely book are filled to the brim with the usual collectibles you'd anticipate in an accessories overview, but it adds some things you might not expect as well. For instance, vintage aprons and old time hosiery get the once over with ample illustration. Did you realize people collect old aprons and ladies stockings?
If you're a fan of hankies, scarves, gloves and muffs you won't feel left out either. Nor will the lover of shawls, capes, fans and parasols. All these pretties fill the pages of this book along with the expected information on shoes, hats and purses.
The book also does a good job of spanning the decades. From Victorian finery to '70s funk, you can find something of interest here. Bruton places captivating vintage advertising pages from old magazines within each category as well. And vintage black and white photographs of ladies in their finest frocks with coordinating bags and bonnets feel right at home here.
However, it's the personalization from the author that actually takes this reference guide one step further than you might expect. All the items in the book, and there's enough to keep you busy browsing for quite some time, come from Bruton's extensive collection. You'll even find a picture of her decked out in a vintage gown with the appropriate accessories. Flashback photos featuring the author dolled up as a child add a nice touch as well.
"I still like to play dress up!" said Bruton in her preface. "With care and caution, it's an opportunity to share treasured pieces of the past." She suggests thinking about age, cleaning factors and historical significance before actually using vintage accessories, however.
"I must admit I have become more conservative over time. Whether it is a hat or purse or pair of shoes, we need to learn about the item before we take measures that could, over time, destroy that which we love," said Bruton within the text.
The author also encourages collectors, especially those inheriting accessories and garments once worn by an ancestor, to thoroughly document pieces added to a collection. Having provenance, or a documented history of an item, only increases the value and desirability should you ever decide to sell a piece or pass it on to someone else in your family. Keeping a photo of the original owner with the item is also a thoughtful touch.
Bruton goes on to discuss dating accessories by style, but cautions that history tends to repeat itself in the fashion industry so looking for finishing detail clues works well in determining age. Often the wording or fabric used on a label or type of lining within an accessory will offer some insight into the true age of the piece. Knowing instinctively how old an object might be comes with handling many items and experience.
Things to consider when valuing accessories come up in the book as well. Condition, completeness, alterations, maker's labels, rarity and demand all factor into the pricing of vintage collectibles. The area of the country you're shopping will also play into values. Some things that are popular in Chicago area may not be quite as desirable in Florida, for example.
Suggested prices for each item illustrated in this reference guide seem to be on target in most cases. Some may be a little high or a little low, but most fall right in line with what you can expect to see in antique malls and shops in most parts of the country. This isn't always the case with books of this nature, so consider it a bonus if you're in the market for a good accessories price guide.
You don't even have to be an avid collector of accessories to appreciate this book, just interested. If you're inclined to stop and look at a collection of fashion accessories, whether they're located in a museum or a friend's home, this book will definitely be a welcome addition to your reference library.
Scan by Pamela Wiggins
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