How I Found a Dress Belonging to Lee Radziwill (Jackie Kennedy's Sister)

[@tommoncrieff1154]

I’m a documentary maker: this is how to tell a story and bring history to life. It’s personal but it’s also an objective record of a time and place and fashion that’s passed. The comment that the First Lady must only shake the hand of her sister in a formal line-up in Paris is a key observation of the behaviour of that very specific time, that we’re in the 60s but it’s really still the old society, the 60s haven’t started swinging yet. Then the research that discovers this gown was worn in just a few months to events hosted by 3 of the most iconic women of the 20th century - Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth II and Princess Grace of Monaco, that’s a wow moment right there that, irrespective of the gown’s intrinsic merits, reveals it to be a silent witness to great people and possibly great moments, so it’s preservation is a historic must, not just an aesthetic one. More!

[@River_scax]

Yes! Bravo!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you for this comment, Tom. To know that you, as a storyteller, liked the video means a lot! There was so much information I wanted to squeeze into it, but in an accessible way. So I'm delighted you enjoyed following this story along 💙

[@jaynana7]

You did a great job. I was happy Lee wore the dress more than once

[@stewart335]

I could listen to your voice all day long!

[@mja72]

What a timeless style and design. This could easily be carried off today and blow those Oscar and Met Gala dresses we see today out of the water.

[@kshudson4285]

You obviously have great passion historic fashion. You, however, have an amazing ability to tell stories. To relay history. Not sure what you do, but you seem to have a natural "super talent" for this. You drew me in like an old friend and caught me up like we were having coffee and the most amazing thing had happened to you (yes true). Just sayin you have a real knack for storytelling.

[@themarquis336]

That thing about matching the specific position of the embroidery on your dress with the dress in the pictures... that is so exciting. It's really detective work. Great job.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you! 💙

[@marg233]

Fabulous restoration project well done, love the story attached and it's videos. Well done excellent job 💖

[@josephrocha142]

That dress is a work of art! The research in the story telling is beyond. Very nice.

[@kathyaakananabluebird]

Love sewing, the 1960s, the Kennedys, fashion, and history like this. Bravo for the project. Well done.

[@MariaDiaz-dq6nb]

Love the story, I am a big fan of Jackie K.. thank you for sharing!

[@dashaway1460]

Having gone to school in New York in the late fifties I was able to study couture! It was a heady time of alaskine, zibeline, furs and jewels. What fun it is to see it now through your eyes!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

How wonderful! It was my first time working with zibeline, and what a learning curve! If I ever work with it again I know to be especially careful - any crease or fold line will scar the fabric. But it has such a beautiful weight and body to it. I can see why it was so popular 💙

[@carolyncrider8217]

What a lovely story. Jacqueline Kennedy is my favorite 1960s ICON. Wondrous restoration.

[@jonathanlee4511]

I literally just read the town and country article a couple days ago! What an awesome find mate. Lee was a goddess. Glad you restored such a beautiful dress back to its glory:

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you, Jonathan!

[@janejdough2230]

Congratulations! I enjoyed hearing about your adventure. Your restoration is amazing. Thank you.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you Jane 💙

[@dawnskywalker]

I love this! The dress is gorgeous!

[@sandraphillips5412]

Enjoyed your story very much, and I like the dress.

[@blorac9869]

Just spotted it, Jackie & Lee's Indian Goodwill tour. Yes on You Tube. Enjoyed, thank you very much!

[@enaaranguren1292]

It's my first time in your channel and I should tell you, never before a vintage fashion video in YT gived me that feeling of time travel through a young gentleman's lockdown expirience to the 60s but it's not only that ... I'm so impressed for the magic and sinchronicities in all the story and your calm, poise and elegant kindness that doesn't fade in anyways the passion we all can read in your candide eyes ... When you said : "May I will just keep it for the generations to come" I do have gossbumps. THANK YOU Henry.🤍

[@swingman5635]

While watching your fine story of your dedication to preserving vintage clothing,I couldn't help being reminded of my mother,who was a sales lady in an upscale dress shop,during the 50s and 60s. She,and the other saleswomen were given first crack at the new arrivals. My mother had quite the wardrobe. Although not couture,everything was well-tailored and chic. She saved her favorite pieces over the years,in a specially built,cedarwood closet. Sportswear, suits,dresses, gowns,coats,hats,shoes,gloves,bags,all well-preserved. After her passing,my father,not thinking through,indiscriminately gave all to charity. My female cousins were heart broken,but I've always hoped that the pieces were being worn by many who would enjoy them as much as she.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

I love this story, thank you for sharing! Your mother sounds like a very elegant woman 💙

[@mariak9727]

You appeared on my feed & I was instantly intriged🥰 As a retired designer apparel buyer & lover of history, I was delighted to discover this young person who is so passionate about fashion history! 😍 I immediately subscribed, keep up the great work!!😍THANK YOU!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you so much! So delighted to hear that. 💙

[@hkhorst7]

Please share more of your collections! Lovely story about this dress and the work put into restoring it

[@madelineghite]

Incredible, congratulations on this find!🎉 I’ve only just discovered your channel, but it’s quickly becoming one of my favorites.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

So kind of you, thank you! 💙

[@lachlangenat9067]

Absolutely Amazing job, the dress looks immaculate and pristine. You are truly talented to turn it from what is was, to turn it into what it is now. :)

[@traceye.6428]

Thank you for sharing this story, and for taking such care in restoring this dress. I am new to your channel today, and I’ve subscribed. I also enjoyed seeing the inside of the dress and how these couture pieces were constructed and finished. I loved this video! Cheers from 🇨🇦

[@nouniafa182]

this is a true restauration work, Monsieur de Givenchy would have been surely proud of you, you are such a professional!

[@stephaniestanley8041]

Henry...love this. Buckle up. Congrats! I adored Lee.

[@jenh9361]

You're just a SPLENDID young man... I LOVE your PASSION, both for your love of Couture, your dedication to historical significance... FABULOUS

[@ladybugssunshine5359]

Pieces that tell a story or take you on their journey are the best ones. And they seem to choose you, too. This was an amazing story.

[@jessiejoseph1093]

When you went to a split screen of the two dresses I said Wow! to no one, there is only me here, you are gifted!

[@50hellkat2]

Your stitches ...wow. You did a perfect restoration, so good. Thanks for sharing.

[@deborahsobel3314]

Clearly you love what you do, the amount of research and effort to research and restore this gown was incredible. Wonderful to see it brought back to life.

[@karmenfuentes7056]

Dear Henry, I was absolutely delighted to hear the story told in your already so traditional and special way. Thank you so much !

[@2FullMoons]

This channel is a blessing. I adore watching your videos, they are truly inspirational in a way. The universe has been very good to you in terms of finding all these exceptional pieces. 🖤

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you! So pleased you've enjoyed it. I've certainly been very lucky with some of the pieces I've managed to find 💙

[@blueinghouse5564]

SO FABULOUS!! From finding it to researching it to the finished product. Magnificent!

[@susprime7018]

Your stitching is so very good.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@GQ-tf6pd]

WOAHHHH FINALLY ✨ I remember months ago, finding your channel when it's only like a hundred subscribers and now it's blowing up I'M SO HAPPY FOR U 💖

[@TheLeonDarko]

Holy shit! what an exquisite FIND!! I'm from the US and I have been SO fascinated by Lee . she was a passionate artist and an amazing person...

[@esthersawyer1097]

What a wonderful project! I so enjoyed your journey getting this gorgeous dress restored!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you! 💙

[@Boxermom0317]

Thanks so much for this video - it's even better than the Town & Country article! When you were talking about the difference between Jackie and her sister, it reminded me of Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret. The Queen always dressed conservatively (and still does), but her sister was free to dress however she liked. Cheers!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Oh yes, absolutely! A very similar dynamic, in terms of wardrobe at least.

[@samanthab1923]

Good point

[@Boxermom0317]

@@samanthab1923 Thanks! :)

[@denisemc607]

Wow I did not expect such an emotional rush from this video. Excellent presentation! Your dedication and love for the restoration is art. I was a baby at this time in USA history and like many deeply connected to the Camelot myth 💓 I also learned to sew my hand making Barrie clothes and the ESL evening dress you showed was one that I made for my own Barrie!!! sadly all lost in many moves as a uni student. The memory made me sample and well up. I have been making and designing my own clothes ever since.

[@bonniewalker9421]

What a wonderful story. I have been a great admirer of Jacqueline Kennedy ever since I was a little girl and her sister Princess Lee Radziwill. I have restored gowns and I appreciate the long time consuming work that goes into each one. Thank you for sharing your stories and thank you for the beautiful photographs that you displayed.

[@theaccidentalsenior]

This video popped up on my site and I am great full. I am not a fashionista, but after being in lockdown for a year, I loved this story and the process you followed to recreate the dress. Great history. Thank you.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

So pleased you enjoyed it Jocelyn! 💙

[@karenblack2869]

Congratulations! So excited for you. Always trust your instincts when purchasing.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you Karen! 💙

[@brendano5440]

What a story. You did a fantastic job. Congratulations. I'm so impressed that you made sure to make your work "removable " without hurting the original garment. True integrity

[@LaurenGraceHarding]

Henry, thank you so much for sharing this incredible restoration and story with us all 🙏 I adore everything about this dress so much...the bodice with it's bateau neckline, crystals & embroidery paired with the skirt, such a masterpiece of early 1960's style. 👗 The amount of time & effort you invested in researching & restoring this dress is truly appreciated...💖 it looks absolutely divine 😍💯👏 First video of yours I've seen and a new subscriber now. Thanks so much again for sharing

[@Nell0111]

It couldn't have happened to a nicer person! So pleased to listen to you tell the story enabling us to share in your excitement. Thank goodness for Jesus and for people helping one another with their insights and expertise....

[@henryjjwilkinson]

So kind of you, thank you Helen! Thank you for watching 💙

[@karmathegiant]

Amazing story! Such a beautiful dress. 💕

[@markpolet5565]

Fantastic result.Beautiful dress now.

[@VondaInWonderland]

What a fabulously exciting story. I'm so glad that I happened upon it ♥

[@bernadettehooper4318]

Fascinating. Glad it came to you and you had the opportunity to bring it back to its full glory.

[@friendofdorothy9376]

Simply fascinating. I would have loved to see you do this in person. How on earth did it ever get in this shape? I mean with the label inside and people knowing its provenance, it’s just unbelievable.

[@suemount6042]

How it arrived on your doorstep was a shocker how could anyone do that to such a beautiful piece you did an amazing job

[@natashamickle1161]

What an amazing and most interesting story! Fabulous historic fashion piece, so beautifully made by one of the great French high fashion designers, the famous Givenchy. This story is particularly interesting for me, as I have followed for many years the glamorous, outstanding and iconic Bouvier sisters. Both Jackie and Lee will be forever imprinted in 20th century history. Congratulations for your persistent and in-depth research, for a very interesting presentation, and for the beautifully restored gown! Thank you for sharing this exciting story!

[@mead343]

What a wonderful story and dress. Thank you and your collaborators for restoring this dress. You made my day. Congratulations.

[@SevenWhitfield65]

You did a fantastic job. Thank you for restoring this piece of historic art. What an exciting adventure this must have been.

[@wfarriss9301]

Sitting here in Santa Fe, on a very cold and snowy morning, watching this story with a nice cup of creamy coffee! Such a cute story!!!👍🏽

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Love that! So glad you enjoyed it 💙

[@mysterywriter888]

I found this by accident and so glad I did. Such a fun story! I love fashion and am also interested in Jackie and her sister. Thanks so much!

[@Saljarba87]

Your channel was one of the nicest ones YT has ever suggested me to subscribe to. I'm so glad I found it. I have a dior obsession for the era of John Galliano and as much as I can buy and -can afford- I hugely collect them. Much love from UAE❤

[@annbroadhead2221]

Congratulation on this perfect ending to the journey that ended in a trip through a glamorous history of this exquisite garment respectfully restored.

[@marylou807]

What a wonderful story and such workmanship by all. Thanks for sharing it.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@olenapozha7185]

Absolutely fascinating 👏Bravo!! You've restored not only one of Givenchy's pieces but it's history as well. Simply marvelous. Hope you do more on the Bouvier sisters.

[@donnaholladay494]

I’m so glad you found this dress and restored it so beautifully. Your story about it is great.

[@sherrieshatzen3801]

How incredible! You deserve cudos for the superb restoration as well as for the research to establish the provenance of what is a very important historical item. It is important on many levels including politically. Thank you.

[@kathyvick2710]

Wow! Absolutely stunning. I can’t imagine what a task you had in restoring this beautiful dress. I think you should hold onto it for awhile. You are very talented!!!

[@sandersongina]

Amazing work. What a beautiful job you did. The dress is just stunning.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you, Gina!

[@piesusan17]

Your restoration is lovely...perfect really. Cheers! What surprised me most is that such a striking dress was worn three times.

[@nancysimmons2225]

Oh my goodness I'm so glad I clicked on your video this is just so fascinating that dress is just gorgeous just gorgeous I just love the way they dress back then I'm glad you're keeping it I can't imagine who would do that dress you did amazing amazing job

[@karenmacdonald33]

Beautiful dress, beautiful work. x

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you, Karen 💙

[@nycp1969]

Congratulations on your exciting find and your meticulous research and needlework. You have resurrected and preserved an important piece of 20th century fashion and cultural history. Lee Radziwill was one of the greatest American fashion icons and, obviously, less well known than her sister. The distinction you draw between their exquisite but different tastes is well stated. Good luck to you.

[@davidbrienlantry8760]

This was fascinating. I am impressed at how you restored this gown to its original splendor.

[@JL-re1rx]

THANKS FOR SHARING SUCH A COOL STORY AND ADVENTURE!!!

[@cathleenvance4441]

I am in awe of your talent as well as your love for historic preservation. Well done.

[@myboibill]

This blog piped into my feed and I almost passed it by.Halfway through it I subscribed.. While the entire story is intriguing your manner and enthusiasm raised it to a rather professional level. As a fan of KZbin and a devotee to fashion I am delighted to find your sight and look forward to many more hours of enjoyment. As a side note as stunning as this dress is your wonderful look gives Givenchy a run for the money.

[@terobegay25]

Wow. That was an Amazing story. I've been a huge fan of Jackie Kennedy but her sister Lee was the Star. Im now a fan of your channel.

[@ADuchessInside]

What an amazing story! The dress is absolutely stunning and the history behind it is fascinating. :)

[@boomerlady]

Loved hearing your story. You are a very talented person. Thank you for restoring this treasure. Great interview with Lee Radziwill in NY times.

[@herstory4768]

You are passionate about what you do, unlike most other youtubers who love making videos more than the subject of video. And that's what makes this channel special. Your videos are long and informative, content is not repetitive. So this channel is a catch. More people deserve to sre this content, i hope youtube algorithm works in your favour.

[@bobperricone2216]

Very interesting story.....Im so glad you were able to restore the dress. I had attended a few of Lee's events and she was a very gracious woman..Thanks for the fine job and caring that you imparted upon this garment...

[@l.keithhain1952]

I just found you here at KZbin with this story! Fascinating! Job well done. Look forward to more of your posts!

[@quittenfee42]

That's an amazing story. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

My pleasure! Thank you for watching.

[@andycbutler]

Fab video! Nice story time, well presented & edited. Good on ya, mate! Cheers!

[@veritygazzard7210]

I just found your channel this morning and I have already watched all your videos... never have I found better explanations of why the Givenchy and Audrey collaboration is so important!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you! So glad to hear it.

[@katetownsend2130]

How incredibly wonderful! I’m such a fan. Bravo!

[@carelpijnappels5204]

What a good story. Like a detective story. Givenchy at his best. I envy you to posess such a beautiful piece.

[@melsmith110]

This was a very interesting story! I have been becoming intrigued with historical and vintage costuming and so your video caught my eye. I think it's incredible that you ended up with this dress and were able to see it restored. I feel that restoration has a special place in the heart, of accomplishing something beautiful!

[@marymarks7046]

Lovely story and thank you for doing such a superb job restoring this gem of a gown. TFS.

[@pyrme12]

Have do idea how you ended up in my feed, but I am so glad that you did. I so enjoyed the story and being an American and a lover of all things Jackie O, and restoration of evening wear, it was such a pleasure. You are so talented and I cannot wait to see what you do next.

[@howardgoldstein867]

Stunning work done by a most talented designer...

[@barbarazane334]

Thank you so much, I read the article first and then found your video. This is fascinating!!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you Barbara! I'm so pleased you've enjoyed following this story 💙

[@amyweaver7413]

What an amazing story and what a beautiful restoration. Bravo sir. 👏👏👏🇨🇦

[@katwil89]

This is the first time watching one of your videos and all I can say is WOW! What a great story - it just gave me goosebumps. I really enjoyed the way you told your story too - very pleasant to listen to. The photos and video of Lee wearing the dress were incredible, as was the finished dress. Congratulations!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you! So pleased to hear that 💙

[@kathleenclark5877]

You must view Henry’s presentation on the Little Black Dress! Excellent!

[@katwil89]

@@kathleenclark5877 I will!

[@iahorvath]

Was a very interesting account and you did a wonderful job with the restoration. I hope to be able to see this dress one day.

[@nicolethijs5428]

Well done! Beautiful story!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@maroulio2067]

Givenchy is one of my favourite designers and seeing your work is such a beautiful tribute to him. I just found your channel and subscribed. I am sure I will be checking all your other posts. Your work is amazing and the story of this restoration is a pleasure to watch.

[@melissagold2559]

So interesting to hear the history and restoration of thos dress. I hope you continue to make more videos!

[@Debmcgrathics]

I was led to Henry Wilkinson by a friend of mine who displayed fabric, gowns and historical pieces at the Royal Ontario museum. I loved this story and Henry's telling of it. He is charming and talented. I just finished reading André Leon Talley's book and he tells wonderful stories about Lee Radziwill. Thank you and I will follow you on Instagram.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you Debra! This is such a kind comment. I'm delighted you've enjoyed this story 💙

[@baba6253]

What a great job and fantastic story behind the beautiful dress - congrats!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@teresawaldrop3169]

Fascinating story associated with thus dress and it's restoration. Thanks for sharing ❤️

[@vascoemyer]

How wonderful you've saved this gem, it's important to preserve these wonderful treasures. What a talented person you are and thank heaven there are such as you who are willing to authentically work their talents in the pursuit of memorialising these wonderful and unique item for future generations to enjoy, admire and educate themselves.

[@1Kaileegirl]

It is absolutely stunning What a find I love how passionate you are about this how it made you sad to see it in poor condition and that you had to save it now thats passion for your craft Congrats to you