A friend shared with me a vintage baptismal gown that has been passed down in her family for several generations.

Even though she is from Argentina, her family came from Spain, so the gown is probably Spanish.

The gown is entirely hand-made and was probably made in the mid-to-late 1800s. It’s made from delicate cotton batiste and trimmed with rows of dainty lace.

There is a mix of lace techniques used in this dress. There is bobbin lace trim on the sleeves and collar. There is a needle lace floral motif on the frontal area. Other techniques include French seaming, pin tucking, smocking and hem stitching. There are also lots of frills and ruffles.

Other features include a silk ribbon interwoven into some of the lace around the waistband. There is also a double bib at the front, embroidered with Broderie Anglaise and eyelets. There was probably a bonnet, booties and frill trimmed socks to go with the original as part of a set. It could even have included a comb or brush.

There is a unique feature of a slit in the middle of the waist area for an arm to fit through for holding the baby.

I am told the gown was originally much longer than it is now. This can be seen from the black and white photo of the gown being worn on the day of a baptism.

I think this is a beautiful tradition and such a treasure for all the family to enjoy.