Hi Heather,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

The allover floral print were popular in the 1930s and 40s and suggest everyday wear rather than evening or cocktail use. The pleated skirt and dropped waistline suggest late 1930s into early 1940s. The three-quarter sleeves with gathered cuffs also align with this era, especially during WWII when fabric conservation rules influenced sleeve and skirt lengths. The lace-trimmed, V-shaped yoke with eyelet/lace inserts has a slightly romantic, almost “prairie” feel. This was seen in the late 1930s–early 40s, when decorative collars were fashionable and could make a simple dress more feminine.

You note that this feels like silk - might it be rayon? or simply a well-worn and pliable cotton (which is what the significant majority of these dresses were made of)?

"Grannycore" is a current thrifting trend and lifestyle aesthetic that embraces the cozy, nostalgic, and romantic styles often associated with grandmothers (or at least a whimsical, idealized version of them). There are also some stylistic overlaps with people into the TradWives lifestyle.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage lace-trimmed floral print day dress
unattributed maker, probably American, circa 1930s-40s
Light blue fabric with floral decoratoin, lace-trimmed collar and sleeves and pleated skirt.
Approximately Size 6-8
CONDITION: Worn with some toning to the lace trim.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 30-50*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia