Machine washed a dry clean only dress - recovery possible

[AnythingConsidered]

Following a large weight loss, I've been able to fit back into some of my most favourite dresses - including my favourite Hobbs 100% wool, bright red, 60's mini dress.

My husband, knowing I planned to wear it whilst delivering a big speech at an industry wide conference next week and that work is manic, thought he would help me out by washing it, pressing it etc.

Except, it's dry clean only and had come out of the washing machine looking like felt and definitely a size smaller. Fortunately (I think) he spotted the issue before putting it in the tumble dryer!

Husband is a rock star who was genuinely trying to help me out. He's absolutely gutted and offered to buy a new one (but this is 8 years old, so won't be the same). I have other dresses I can wear to the conference, but I really wanna save it!

Is it recoverable?
Any ideas on what I can do to try?

I feel your pain. My husband once machine washed, and tumble dried, a Joseph dry clean only top of mine and it came out child sized. It was unsalvageable, unfortunately. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

I think if it’s turned into felt it’s past redemption, I’m afraid.

Well I turned my favourite wool jumper into felt and fit for a doll. I was devastated but washed it in hair conditioner (as per Google instructions) and gradually reshaped it into me sized again. It didn't really ever look the same it was a close enough proximity but when I did the same thing a second time I gave up and made it into a lovely snuggley cushion cover. It's worth a try OP.

I agree with Mike.

DH washed and tumble dryed a wool cardigan.
I washed it in hair conditioner and stretched it. Worked a treat.

It's dead . Log a search on eBay. Or get it copied?

Try the hair conditioner tip and then iron whilst damp. It won’t be the same as before but it should be better than now.

I feel your pain, I’ve done this more than once.

These are fantastic suggestions - guess what I will be doing today.

I know it's just a dress, but was so looking forward to wearing it, it's been 5 long years since it fit.

Fingers crossed I can get it close to what it is was. Thank you all so much.

I meant to say, well done for your weight loss. I really hope you can salvage the dress.

Thank you BangingOn, sadly the tips and tricks didn't work - it improved the dress from. How it was, but not enough to salvage.

On the positive, it gives me an excuse to shop!

A friend once bought a lovely traditional woollen Christmas jumper, I saw her wearing it a few days before Christmas. We then met up on Boxing Day, her 3 year old was wearing it after it had an 'accident' in the washing machine.

What a shame/poor DH - definitely try eBay - you just never know!
If not, happy shopping - a celebratory present for your weight loss