Thoughts on this dress?

[Saunaandsteam]

Hi, Just looking for opinions on this dress - I bought it in a charity shop this morning and liked it because it is 55% silk and 45% cotton. It fits well but I'm just not sure about the beads around the neckline. Looks like they could be removed easily enough, the question is would it look better without them? I'm 51 if it makes a difference and would prob wear the dress on holiday. Image taken from ebay.

Looks lovely actually. Good find!

I guess it depends on whether you want a simple shift or if you like embellishment. I like the beads.

Suspect the beads will leave a mark even if removed. They're subtle for such big beads, I like it , Minuet was a favourite brand back in the day

I would likely try and remove them.

I think it looks good as it is.

It's lovely and timeless and a great find material-wise. Sadly this type of lighting never flatters shiny/silky black fabric so I am going to presume it is much lovelier in real life.Also, a great fit, lucky!

OMG sorry, it's a mannequin
My comment still stands.

You won't be able to remove the beads without damaging the fabric.

Thank you everyone - I really appreciate all the comments and it seems that the beads look ok so I will keep them for now! @Defiantlynot41 I have never heard of Minuet so its interesting what you say - but did wonder if it was an older brand since it is size 12 but definitely not too big on me and I'm usually a 8/10. I don't think that it has been worn much if at all since there is a spare bead bag still attached to the label in the collar line. Overall I'm happy with my £7 purchase.

Pretty sure the beads will leave a mark if you remove them. Be prepared to replace them with something.....

@Saunaandsteam , definitely an older brand, I used to buy their suits when I wore them to work so probably 20 years ago. Used to be stocked by John Lewis, HoF, Debenhams etc

Was so nice to get something that actually fitted me!

Very nice. Simple and classy. I thought it was you too! I was going to say you have fantastically toned arms😂

@pilates 🤣🤣🤣

I wouldn't be able to stop myself removing them and replacing them with maybe a posh ribbon either toning or contrasting. But I would probably regret it.

Yes, I was wondering about that too...but think I will try to resist. I'm usually quite a plain dresser and like understated jewellery which is why the size of the beads were throwing me off I think. Here is a photo of the necklace - its washed and dried, but not ironed as yet.

@Saunaandsteam How firmly are they attached? And are they attached all the way round? I

I like it!

Each large bead is attached with one thread to a meshy panel below the beads. None of the small beads are attached. Hard to describe and not sure if I'm doing a good job!

If they're attached to the mesh, it'll be easy to remove without leaving any sign they'd ever been there (which would definitely be a good thing in my opinion).