Designer clothing

Q: I am liquidating my mother’s estate in the Cleveland area. She was quite a society maven during the 1930s and ‘40s and wore mostly designer clothing. I have four large closets full of clothing by fairly prominent designers such as Eisenberg, Ceil Chapman, Norman Norrell, Mainbocher, Chanel, Elizabeth Hawes and Schiaparelli. How can I determine values? — Stephanie, Oak Park, Ill.

A: Although there are several excellent price guides, one of the more user-friendly ones is the Official Price Guide to Vintage Fashion and Fabrics by Pamela Smith (House of Collectibles, $17). Old clothing — especially designer clothing — is in vogue once again, and some of the prices being paid are at a premium.

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Q: I have two Elvis LPs and would like to know how much they are worth. They are “Greatest Show on Earth” and “Elvis: A Lasting Tribute to the King of Rock and Roll.” — Isabell, Orlando, Fla.

A: Several of the better price guides are The Goldmine Standard Catalogue of American Records: 1950-1975 (Krause Publications, $34.99), The Goldmine Price Guide to 45 rpm Records (Krause Publications, $24.99), and the Goldmine Record Album Price Guide (Krause Publications, $24.99), all by Tim Neely. All three may be ordered directly from the company through its toll-free number, 888-457-2873.

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Q: I have a large collection of collector plates. Is there a secondary market where I can sell them? — Virginia, Northglenn, Colo.

A: Collector plates are often difficult to sell. With that said, I suggest you contact the International Collectors Guild, P.O. Box 487, Artesia, CA 90702. The group publishes an excellent monthly newsletter for collectors that you might find especially helpful.

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Q: I am trying to find out the value of what appears to be a first edition of “The Dude Ranger” by Zane Grey. — Robin, via e-mail

A: I found a 1931 edition of your Grosset and Dunlap book for $3.13 at abe.com. It does not appear to be rare.