How to Buy a Civil War Era Dress

If you're building your vintage clothing closet or just looking for a unique collectible for your antique showcase, a Civil War-era dress could be just what you need to keep up with your latest hobby. Civil War-era dresses are available for purchase from both online and offline sellers, and can be found on sites such as eBay or even at an area vintage boutique. When you're looking for some new additions for your Civil War-era collection, here's how to find and buy a genuine Civil War-era dress.

Instructions

1. Search eBay. Look for independent antique goods sellers and online boutiques that specialize in vintage clothing and dresses. Many eBay merchants list Civil War-era dresses and other antiques from that period, and you can browse the selections with ease.

2. Search for a medieval era seamstress. Look to small towns and cities around your area for a seamstress that specializes in vintage wear and antique merchandise. You can find dresses and outfits that date back to the Civil-War era and other periods in history to build your collection.

3. Look for Victorian boutiques. Victorian boutiques and shops in your town, or neighboring towns, can be a great place to find vintage clothing and civil war era dresses. Search inventory online or offline to track down your unique piece.

4. Check Craigslist. Search Craigslist in your city, or major metropolitan cities such as New York, Chicago and Los Angeles where you can find independent sellers listing vintage clothing and dresses.

5. Look for vintage stores in your own town. Search the Yellow Pages or other local directory to track down vintage boutiques that may feature Civil War-era dresses and outfits.

6. Check all of your pieces for authenticity. The majority of Civil War-era dresses were made of wool and cotton and were handsewn. Make sure your clothing is authentic by inspecting each piece, looking for stitching patterns and inquiring about the history of the dress from the seller.

7. Bid on a Civil War-era dress at an auction. Search for vintage dresses and accessories at auction sites either online or offline. These are valuable places to find a vast selection of inventory from the Civil War period and other notable periods in history.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask about signs and proof of authenticity for all vintage goods you purchase.

• Request a certificate or receipt of your purchase.

• Make sure you get a complete description of the goods and insure your purchase when buying civil war era dresses online.

• Look for pricing information in civil war era collectible catalogs and books to make sure you're paying a reasonable price for your treasure.