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 💙

[@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.

[@kathyaakananabluebird]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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! 💙

[@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!

[@josephrocha142]

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

[@janejdough2230]

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

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you Jane 💙

[@carolyncrider8217]

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

[@marg233]

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

[@MariaDiaz-dq6nb]

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

[@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.🤍

[@dawnskywalker]

I love this! The dress is gorgeous!

[@blorac9869]

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

[@sandraphillips5412]

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

[@hkhorst7]

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

[@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 💙

[@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. 💙

[@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. :)

[@esthersawyer1097]

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

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you! 💙

[@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 🇨🇦

[@susprime7018]

Your stitching is so very good.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@50hellkat2]

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

[@bernadettehooper4318]

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

[@stephaniestanley8041]

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

[@nouniafa182]

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

[@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 💙

[@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.

[@karenblack2869]

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

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you Karen! 💙

[@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! 💙

[@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 💙

[@mead343]

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

[@donnaholladay494]

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

[@SevenWhitfield65]

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

[@markpolet5565]

Fantastic result.Beautiful dress now.

[@karmathegiant]

Amazing story! Such a beautiful dress. 💕

[@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 💖

[@sandersongina]

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

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you, Gina!

[@marylou807]

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

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@karenmacdonald33]

Beautiful dress, beautiful work. x

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you, Karen 💙

[@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.

[@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

[@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! 💙

[@quittenfee42]

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

[@henryjjwilkinson]

My pleasure! Thank you for watching.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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! :)

[@andycbutler]

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

[@melissagold2559]

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

[@JL-re1rx]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@jenh9361]

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

[@l.keithhain1952]

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

[@blueinghouse5564]

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

[@nicolethijs5428]

Well done! Beautiful story!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@marymarks7046]

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

[@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.

[@baba6253]

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

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@ADuchessInside]

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

[@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 💙

[@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!

[@davidbrienlantry8760]

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

[@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!!!

[@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.

[@VondaInWonderland]

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

[@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!

[@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...

[@84Littlebit]

You are amazing! Well done!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you Elizabeth! So kind of you 💙

[@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!

[@lauraellen189]

I am glad I stumbled upon your channel. I became intrigued instantly. The restoration is perfect and the dress is beautiful! Well done!

[@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

[@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.

[@glorystyles7156]

Fascinating story and a beautiful restoration. Thanks!

[@TheMichelex20]

I loooove this story! Wow. You have gained a new subscriber in me!

[@karenokeane6461]

Wonderful story, and utterly superb restoration of this dress. Enjoy your videos immensely. Thank you for posting.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

I'm so pleased, thank you!

[@katetownsend2130]

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

[@thepeacockroom5898]

What a wonderful story! You did a wonderful job and the dress is stunning!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@designsonyouinparis]

What an incredible and beautiful Story! You are so talented and knowledgeable! First time to you channel- of course, liked and subscribed & shared. Thank you!

[@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!

[@cathleenvance4441]

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

[@hinas_for_life]

Oops only one line of my message uploaded. I was salivating the whole time while watching you journey in restoring the dress to its former glory! You own a piece of history now, keep it safe!!!!!!!!!!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

I certainly will! Thank you Christopher.

[@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.

[@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.

[@mnilsson2704]

So interesting. May I congratulate on your results. The gown is gorgeous.

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you!

[@jstanders6973]

Henry, what a fabulous documentary and congratulations on your beautiful restoration of Lee's dress. it is stunning. Well done Sir.

[@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.

[@jackiebuys3178]

such a beautiful story and you did a beautiful job with the restoration!

[@SirrahSunday]

Wonderful, fascinating story. Beautiful work by both artists.

[@freetobe15]

Soo cool! Great job! Very interesting. I’m glad you made this video!

[@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 💙

[@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

[@__lavenderose__]

That's so cool! I'm glad you could restore it. I eventually want to design a few fashion lines though I have no idea how to make that desire a reality. I am a graphic designer and illustrator so I feel I'm in the right direction lol. Your passion inspires me and it's refreshing to see and hear about your stories and collections!

[@henryjjwilkinson]

Thank you 💙 So glad you enjoyed the video and that you're inspired to keep creating!

[@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.

[@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.

[@jerrycooper6033]

Amazing your restoration! Congratulations!❤