Exceptional c. 1990s Odicini Couture little black dress with floral detailed raffia hem.

Description

Oh! Jackie proudly presents a sophisticated c. 1990s Odicini Couture little black dress. Such a beautiful design with unique and lovely details!

As not everyone might be familiar with the designer behind this very successful Italian couture label, following some words about Andrea Odicini: "The Genoese couturier is of incredible refinement and one of the most important ambassadors of haute couture. Witty, elegant, reserved, and at times elusive, Andrea Odicini is one of the leading figures in Italian high fashion. Uninterested in the spotlight often demanded by his profession, Odicini has earned recognition among an exclusive international clientele. It was in Paris that Andrea Odicini began his career, which later flourished in New York, London, and Monte Carlo. Some still recall how, in 1978, his dresses displayed in the windows of Bergdorf Goodman sold out within hours.

Present on the haute couture calendar for many years, he eventually chose to withdraw from the public stage and remain in his hometown of Genoa, where his atelier is still located in a historic building in the city center. Those who seek one of his creations must visit him personally, as do the elegant ladies from Milan to Monte Carlo, Paris to Portofino, who trust his talent. Among them are notable figures, including the Princess of Kent and the Duchess of Marlborough." – From the book "Andrea Odicini" by Rizzoli

At first sight this is a classic and elegant Odicini Couture dress tailored to couture standards from a high-quality structured black fabric with a subtle sheen. Cut simply, it ends just below the knee and features a round neck and cap sleeves with small shoulder pads.

But, what makes it exceptional and outstanding is the wide row of black raffia fringes that highlights the hem and gives the dress just the perfect amount of weight, depth and movement. So when you move, it creates that typical rustling raffia sound. I love, that hidden between the plain raffia ribbons some with small black fabric flowers decorated ones are placed here and there. They catch your eye and add that certain-something effect.

The dress is lined throughout with a fine black silk and closes with a back hidden set zipper. Tagged an Italian vintage size 46.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Appears unworn.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 40 cm – 15.75" (seam to seam)

Bust: 100 cm – 39.37"

Waist: 90 cm – 35.43"

Hips: 100 cm – 39.37"

Length: 100 cm – 39.37" (including raffia) / 79 cm – 31.10" (without raffia)

Measurements are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: M/L

Reference Photos: Model presenting an Odicini Couture little black dress on the runway / Super model Gail Elliott in a A/W 1988/89 Odicini Couture evening dress on the cover of Elegance Paris Magazine / Designer Andrea Odicini

Alluring Spring/Summer 1997 Giorgio Armani runway and ad campaign documented backless dress.

Description

Oh! Jackie is delighted to offer this sensual Giorgio Armani maxi dress from the designer's Spring/Summer 1997 collection. I am so pleased to have found runway and ad campaign documentation of it – Nadja Auermann photographed by Peter Lindbergh wearing the twin of this dress – so that you can see how fabulous it is on an actual body. A white version of the design was sported by Mira Sorvino who attended the Cannes Film Festival 1997 together with Giorgio Armani. Please see the reference pictures after the label shot.

The dress is made in Italy from a beautiful chocolate-coloured floral swirl design jacquard rayon fabric and features a V-neck with spaghetti straps and waist-enhancing cut-out detailing to the sides. A daring high center slit allows to show off your legs when you move. On the runway a version of this dress was presented with a pair of semitransparent wide-leg trousers underneath which looks wonderful and is the perfect solution if you would like to have the look less revealing (see pictures 17 & 18).

Center stage definitely occupies the dress's back view with its tiny straps creating a deep V and leaving your entire back bare.

Fully lined the design closes with a painted metal and nylon zip on the left side. Two tiny buttons bring the two straps together at the center back.

Labelled "Giorgio Armani – A Milano Borgonuovo 21 – Made in Italy" and tagged an Italian vintage size 44.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Appears unworn.

Size & Fit

Bust: 88 cm – 34.65"

Waist: 74 cm – 29.13"

Hips: 100 cm – 39.37"

Slit Length: 73 cm – 28.74"

Length: 147 cm – 57.87"

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.  

Approximate Modern Size: M

Reference Photos: (1-3 & 5-6) Spring 1997 Giorgio Armani Runway  /  (4) Nadja Auermann for Giorgio Armani photographed by Peter Lindbergh  /  (7) Mira Sorvino with Giorgio Armani at the Cannes Film Festival, May 1997

Outstanding Fall 1983 Yves Saint Laurent ad campaign little black velvet dress.

Description

Oh! Jackie is delighted to offer this sophisticated Fall 1983 Yves Saint Laurent little black dress. This dress is extra special as it was photographed by Helmut Newton for that season's ad campaign for the house of Yves Saint Laurent that ran in the September issue of Vogue magazine.

The fabulous design is made in France from a high quality velvet – appears to be silk velvet – and features a sublime asymmetrical neckline giving prominence to the collarbone. An eye-catching rhinestone button closure up the left front adds a bit of sparkle to it.

The dress has long sleeves with buttoned cuffs (working buttonholes), a padded right shoulder (the left one is unpadded as to the reduced design of the shoulder) and is fully lined. Love the wonderful scooped hem!

Labelled "Saint Laurent Rive Gauche" and tagged a French vintage size 38.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. The velvet shows variations in the way the plush of the velvet lays so a couple of small areas catch the light differently. Not a true flaw but mentioned for accuracy.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 42 cm – 16.5" (approx.)

Bust: 94 cm – 37"

Waist: 84 cm – 33.1"

Hips: 96 cm – 37.8"

Sleeve length: 56 cm – 22"

Length: 104 cm – 40.9"

Measurements for bust, waist and hips are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED.

Modern Sizing Equivalent: S

Reference photo: Fall 1983 Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche ad campaign photographed by Helmut Newton for Vogue, September 1983.

Unique 1976 Roberta di Camerino "Gabbiano" trompe l'oeil print jersey dress with sash and ribbon in a wearable size L.

Description

This "Gabbiano" named instantly recognizable Roberta di Camerino dress is dated to 1976 on the still present original paper tag. It is made from a jersey knit fabric in beautiful hues of soft violet with black accents and comes directly from the Roberta di Camerino archive in Italy (see archive's stamp on picture 15).

The dress shows one of the designer's iconic illusionistic prints with black detailing that give the impression of a fuller skirt in motion. This effect is called trompe l'oeil and means a "visual illusion in art, especially as used to trick the eye into perceiving a painted detail as a three-dimensional object" (Oxford Dictionaries).

The fitted design has an open collar, darts at the bust and long sleeves with buttoned cuffs featuring the iconic gold metal "R" logo buttons. It comes with a matching wide sash and a thin ribbon that allow you to style the dress in many different ways. There are four belt loops in matching fabric that sit slightly below the natural waist. 

The dress slips on over the head with no closure and is unlined. Its label reads "Roberta di Camerino Made in Italy". The dress shows the signature logo "R" imprint on the right sleeve above the cuff and is tagged an Italian vintage size 48. The original paper tag gives detailed information regarding the model's name, size and price: “Vestito corto (short dress) Gabbiano (model name), (size) 48, 230.000 Lira (price)“.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. It is deadstock with its original tag still attached and has never been worn. The Roberta di Camerino's archive stamp on the inside of the hem does not show through.

Size & Fit

Dress

Shoulders: 40 cm – 15.75" (seam to seam)

Bust: 96 cm – 37.8" (unstretched)

Waist: 82 cm – 32.28" (unstretched)

Hips: 96cm – 37.8" (unstretched)

Sleeve length: 66 cm – 25.98"

Length: 124 cm – 48.82"

Sash

Length: 147 cm – 57.87"

Width: 14 cm – 5.51"

Ribbon

Length: 123 cm – 48.43"

Width: 2,8 cm – 1.1"

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Size: L

Sophisticated All About Eve Couture (Talbot Runhof) strapless feathered pinstripe evening dress from the early 1990s.

Description

In 1991 the two designers Johnny Talbot (American) and Adrian Runhof (German) met in Munich and initially founded the label All About Eve Couture, which was mainly known for modern evening wear. The rapid growth of All About Eve Couture and the problematic name of the brand – there was already a perfume under the same name – caused the label to be renamed Talbot Runhof in 2000. 

Never going too far, but always going far enough: this is the philosophy of Johnny Talbot and Adrian Runhof. This motto is also reflected in the collections of the designer duo. Each creation has special features and details that are nevertheless always fitting for a grand entrance. Precious fabrics are combined with exquisite couture techniques. Each evening dress from Talbot Runhof is unique. Whether classic fabrics or innovative high-tech fibres, Johnny Talbot and Adrian Runhof are always on the lookout for new textile challenges.

Here we have a stunning early 1990s strapless evening dress from the All About Eve Couture label. The designers combined the utmost simplicity in this gown and used the pinstriped black fabric and – above all – the feather accentuated bust to create the statement. It is such an amazing contrast between the masculine fabric and the feminine feathers!

The dress is cut straight with an alluring high center back slit. The strapless bodice features a built in inner corset to keep it in place. It is boned and finishes a bit above the hip.

The bust is highlighted by that flamboyant line of fabulous, glossy and partly iridescent feathers in autumn colours such as russet, cinnamon and moss-green. This feather line is actually a separate piece on its own that snaps into place and I have provided photos of the dress with and without it. I love how the longer feathers flatter the neckline and seesaw when you move. Very well constructed with hand finishes throughout.

When I met Johnny Talbot few months ago in his boutique in Munich I showed him the pictures of this dress and he remembered it at first sight. Talking about this and that and about the fabulous feathers he told me that they are from the atelier of the mother of his design partner Adrian Runhof and date back to the 1970s.

The dress is lined with a black silky rayon and closes with a back hidden set zipper. Labeled "ALL ABOUT EVE COUTURE".

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. All feathers are full and glossy.

Size & Fit

Bust: 90 cm – 35.43" (with a B cup room built in)

Waist: 77 cm – 30.34" (measured inside the corset)

Hips: 100 cm –39.37" (measured inside the corset)

Length: 134 cm – 52.76" (measured from top of bodice to hem)

Slit: 66 cm – 26" (from hem up)

Measurements are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips. 

Approximate Modern Size: M

Exceptional 1978 silk taffeta blouse and skirt evening ensemble with flounces by Yves Saint Laurent.

Description

This is a rare and collectible iridescent olive green silk taffeta two-piece gown by Yves Saint Laurent from 1978. This Rive Gauche version would have been based on that Haute Couture gowns from the late seventies collection. The ensemble comprises of a tiered and flounced high waisted full length skirt that is 18 cm – 7" longer in the back. The skirt is full and yet light and has an incredible amount of fabric. The waist is cinched with a wide, attached sash in matching fabric that ties around the waist and is original to the set. The skirt has two side pockets, is unlined and closes with a side painted metal zipper. Tagged a French vintage size 40.

The blouse has a flounced collar edging and each cuff is also finished with a similar treatment. The sleeves feature gathered shoulders. I have included a photo (picture 9) of how the inner shoulder is constructed – additionally to a small shoulder pad there is a gathered pleated panel of fabric along the inner edge that gives a lift to the shoulder for a light take on a Victorian feel. The blouse closes with a hidden button at the neckline and two snap buttons at the waist. Tagged a French vintage size 40.

The set is also very versatile since it is separates and the pieces can be worn together and presents as a gown, or you may pair them up with other pieces in your wardrobe.

Please click to read the Museum at FIT article "Yves Saint Laurent's Rive Gauche Revolution" by Emma McClendon to get more insight in YSL's ready-to-wear line Rive Gauche.

Designer

Yves Saint Laurent was born in 1936 in Oran, Algeria and began his career as an assistant of Christian Dior. When Dior died in 1957, he became the artistic director. In 1962 he opened his own fashion house, and in 1966, he created his ready-to-wear line Rive Gauche. By the 1980s, Yves Saint Laurent was a true icon. He was the first living designer to receive a solo exhibition in New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1983. He died in 2008.

Condition

This gown is in excellent vintage condition. Tiny surface scuffs to the fabric here and there but nothing that stands out as a large flaw. One pulled thread on the left sleeve. All visible under close inspection only. No perspiration staining.

Size & Fit

Blouse

Shoulders: 40 cm – 15.7" (seam to seam)

Bust: 100 cm – 39.4"

Waist: 94 cm – 37"

Sleeve length: 56 cm – 22"

Length: 68 cm – 26.8" (center front), 73,5 cm – 26.8" (back)

Skirt

Waist: 71 cm – 28"

Hips: open

Length: 111 cm – 43.7" (from waist band to the shortest part of front hem), 129 cm – 50.8" (to the back hem)

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust and waist.

Approximate Modern Size: S-M

Reference Photo Credits: 1977 Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche ensemble. 1971-72 Yves Saint Laurent dresses. Both images found on Pinterest.

Romantic 1970s layered floral print silk chiffon maxi dress with original belt by E. Braun & Co.

Description

I love the softness and sensuality of this very well-made vintage design! You are entirely covered from neck to hem but the transparency of the silk through the billowing sleeves and upper shoulders hint at the skin underneath and keep the dress from feeling too demure.

The dress is constructed of a gorgeous floral print silk chiffon that is almost weightless and flows and moves beautifully. It is a glorious riot of colour with pink and coral pink mixing with softer shades of both with lovely blossoms that cover the entire piece.

The bodice is made from two layers. There is an inner solid pink tank with tiny straps made from the outer silk chiffon and then the sleeved semitransparent silk chiffon bodice sits over that. Both are attached to the skirt at the waist. Each sleeve is cut long and finished with a lovely flounce created from two layers of chiffon, the floral print one and a solid hot pink one. Each cuff has elastic in it.

The back hooks at the top of the neck leaving an open slit that runs from the neck to the upper end of the hand-set painted metal zip creating a deep keyhole revealing the perfect bit of skin. The waist is seamed for a touch of shape and cinched with the original pink fabric covered leather belt. The skirt flows out under that in two full silk chiffon layers – the floral print one and a solid hot pink one – that top the inner solid pink lining so it moves and swirls wonderfully! It falls to the floor.

Designer

E. Braun & Co. was a high-class clothing store established by the brothers Emanuel and Josef Braun in Vienna, Austria, in 1892. In 1911 they became purveyors to the Habsburg court. The company operated branches in Berlin, Munich and Baden-Baden, Germany, as well. Before WWII the Braun family left Europe, although descendants of the family came back to Vienna after the war. Different from what happened to other Jewish businesses during this period, the company was managed by a former company employee, Franziska Färber, who continued to work for the company when the Myer-Braun family returned to Vienna and took over the business again.

Some members of the Braun family emigrated to the United States and opened a linen shop in Manhattan, New York City, using the same name. If you are in West Hollywood you will find an E. Braun & Co. there, which has its roots in the Viennese company. In 2004 the company closed its doors in Vienna.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Appears to have been worn very little if at all. There is a small area of staining on the belt's lining near the hooks, that of course this is not something you would ever see when on. Please have a look at the picture before the label shot.

Size & Fit

Straps: 16 cm – 6.3"

Bust: ca. 89 cm – 35"

Waist: 70 cm – 27.6"

Hips: 100 cm – 39.37"

Sleeve Length: 68 cm – 26.77" (including flounce)

Length: 147 cm – 57.87" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Belt Width: 5 cm – 2"

Belt Length: 77,5 cm – 30.51"

Measurements are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: S-M

Beautiful 1990s Voyage London burgundy and dusty pink embroidered silk blend velvet maxi slip dress.

Description

Known as Kate Moss's favorite label during the 1990s, Voyage London was founded by Louise and Tiziano Mazilli. They opened a shop on Fulham Road, London, in 1991 and quickly gained notoriety for their quite high prices and a very strict door policy (Madonna and Naomi Campbell were both reportedly turned away.) Those who made it in were – amongst others – Kate Moss, Amber Valletta and Linda Evangelista, who once declared, "I can't survive without your clothes". Tiny cardigans costed around £500 plus, figure-hugging long dresses at about £1500 and stylish coats up to £3500. However, all this was immaterial when offset against the reality of something that was completely unique, beautifully handmade and wildly trend-setting. Voyage also had the competitive edge of using old fabrics to create recycled clothing with a vintage feel. The shop closed in 2002.

Here we have a fabulous 1990s 'VOYAGE' 'Invest in the Original' sleek boho velvet maxi slip dress.

The figure skimming halter dress is made from a striking jewel toned burgundy coloured liquid flat ply velvet that is very light. The velvet gives it depth and the colour changes a bit depending on the light you are in from a deep burgundy to a lighter more ruby feeling tone in brighter lights.

The bias cut low back dress is suspended from the shoulder with two tiny jewel detailed dusty pink silk straps. The neckline is finished with the same dusty pink silk of the straps and features a lovely floral embroidery at the center.

The skirt is constructed with an inset panel at the lower right side so that it flares out softly as it reaches the hem. To finish the dress there is a 28 cm – 11" slit on the back right side – bordered in the same dusty pink silk and decorated with a slightly modified version of the neckline embroidery – so that when you walk or sit you get a flash of leg. It also allows the skirt to have a bit more movement when you walk. Unlined and slips on to wear with no closures. Tagged a vintage size M.

The cardigan that you see in picture 2 is not included but available here.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Perhaps the most minor of marks to the velvet here and there as it is to be expected with this fabric.

The fabric does have some stretch and the measurements provided are the comfortable range.

Size & Fit

Bust: 84 cm – 33.07" (measured across under the arms)

Waist: 80 cm – 31.5"

Hips: 92 cm – 36.22"

Length: 140 cm – 55.12" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips. 

Approximate Modern Size: S–M

Reference Photos: Kate Moss dressed in Voyage London with Meg Mathews  and Fran Cutler, 1990s / Kate Moss at a Vogue Magazine party held at the Lisson Gallery on May 20, 1998 in London.

Elegant documented Spring/Summer 1997 Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture evening gown.

Description

The twin of this Spring/Summer 1997 Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture gown belonged to French actress and muse to Yves Saint Laurent Catherine Deneuve. Her dress was sold together with a beaded evening bolero at Christie's for € 8.750 in Paris in January 2019 (see reference photo).

I love the Watteau blue colour and the sophisticated cut and line. The full length design is made of a high-quality crêpe and features a scoop neckline and long sleeves with small cuffs closed by a faux pearl button and a hidden snap. The dress has a natural slightly gathered waistline (fixed at the seam) and comes with a slim belt in matching fabric and lined in white smooth leather (signed "YVES SAINT LAURENT MADE IN FRANCE" and numbered 463).

The bodice is an amazing work of fashion design. It is unlined but consists of two layers of fabric that are fastened in the back with a very fine hand set hidden painted metal and nylon zipper each – the outer layer closes with an additional faux pearl button at the neck. Silk covered shoulder pads with bra strap fastenings. Sleeves are lined in matching silk chiffon.

The skirt has two hidden side pockets and is lined in a matching light blue silk charmeuse. The gown is finished to Haute Couture standards and entirely done by hand. The label reads "YVES SAINT LAURENT PARIS MADE IN FRANCE" and is numbered 072859.

Designer

Yves Saint Laurent was born in 1936 in Oran, Algeria and began his career as an assistant of Christian Dior. When Dior died in 1957, he became the artistic director. In 1962 he opened his own fashion house, and in 1966, he created his ready-to-wear line Rive Gauche. By the 1980s, Yves Saint Laurent was a true icon. He was the first living designer to receive a solo exhibition in New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1983.

"When you put something on from Yves Saint Laurent's couture, there is an immediate sensual experience: everything, no matter what it's made of, is always lined in silk. That detail is emblematic of his total attitude toward women. He wants to spoil them, to envelop them in the pleasure of his clothes", said Catherine Deneuve.

Saint Laurent died in 2008.

Condition

This Haute Couture gown is in excellent vintage condition. One hardly visible yellowish small spot at the front just above the belt that may come out with additional cleaning (see the picture before the label shot). Only visible under close inspection. The seam has been taken up but can be undone easily.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 41 cm – 16.1"

Bust: 99 cm – 39"

Waist: 88 cm – 34.6"

Hips: 114 cm – 44.9"

Length: 142 cm – 56"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: L–XL

Reference Photo Credits: The twin of our gown owned by Catherine Deneuve. Picture from Christie's auction catalogue, January 2019.

Lovely 1970s Louis Féraud attributed ruffled and pleated chiffon evening dress with ruby lining.

Description

This is an elegant ink-blue Louis Féraud Paris attributed chiffon evening dress from the 1970s. By that time The House of Féraud was well established and in 1978 the couturier won the prestigious "Golden Thimble Award". This dress comes direct from a client who purchased it in and around that same time period in Munich, Germany.

The beautiful long design features a spectacular pleat work! The entire bodice and half of the sleeves have fine flat pleats worked into the chiffon that become a design element on their own. The colour of the dress is very unusual. It has been achieved by layering a deep ink-blue semi-sheer chiffon over an iridescent ruby lining. It also gives the fabric a depth and texture that seems to change in different lights. The degree of transparency and colour opaqueness also changes when the fabric moves over itself as you move.

The vertically pleated bodice is fitted and has a deep ruffled V-neck. The waist nips in and the skirt is soft and full with slight pleating around the waistline. It swings out with lots of movement. The standout element is of course the sleeves – each ends above the elbow in two dramatic ruffles giving the dress an ethereal feel. They are unlined so that you get a touch of transparency through the pleated chiffon. A wide sash ties around the waist and is original to the dress. It closes with a center back set zipper. Unlabelled.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Some discolouration of the interior lining under the arms and the inside back. Slight stress areas near the interior lining seams below the bust. All does not show outside. Professionally cleaned and pressed by hand.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 39 cm – 15.35" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 78 cm – 30.71" (measured across under the arms)

Waist: 60 cm – 23.62"

Hips: 102 cm – 40.16" (lining; chiffon skirt free)

Sleeve Length: 28 cm – 11.02" (without ruffles) / 78 cm – 30.71" (with ruffles; up to the longest point)

Length: 139 cm – 54.72" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Sash Width: 18 cm – 7.09"

Sash Length: 338 cm – 133.07"

Measurements are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: XS

Enchanting couture cocktail dress by Von Fürstenberg from the 1950s.

Description

This is a wonderful example of an elegant 1950s couture dance dress by Von Fürstenberg München (Munich). The "New Look" was in full swing at that time and the excessive use of fabric and the full skirted silhouette is presented beautifully in this dress.

The Von Fürstenberg label was founded by Baron Benedikt von Fürstenberg out of Munich, Germany, in 1946. He started with a small undergarment manufactory and moved on soon with 120 seamstresses tailoring beautiful and incredibly well-made couture for young women with varying Munich couturiers designing for him. In the late 1940s von Fürstenberg founded the "Fürstenberg" lingerie and swimwear fashion label that still exists today.

I am pleased to have found a photo of a striped Von Fürstenberg day dress with the same cut from 1956. Please see the last picture.

The dress is made out of a lipstick red heavy grade silk satin that holds the shape of it wonderfully. It is very well made! The bodice is fitted and defined by vertical seaming and features a square cut neckline and wide straps. The skirt is dropped and starts low on the hip and is very full. It falls to just below the knee. The volume that you see in the photos has been created by the way that the skirt is cut and set into the drop waistline with beautiful wide pleats of fabric. A lovely silk fringe tipped bow sits just above the left hip and gives the dress a romantic feel to it.

Fully lined in a matching rayon with a built in layer of stiffened cream muslin-like material in the skirt that give structure to it. You could add an extra crinoline if you wanted an even fuller look. The dress closes with a center back metal zipper. Hand finishes.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. The slightest perspiration staining where the straps are attached to the bodice. Only visible under close inspection. Gets lost in the shimmery silk satin fabric.

Size & Fit

Bust: 87 cm – 34.3" (bust darts)

Natural Waist: 67 cm – 26.4"

Hips: 76 cm – 29.9" – open below

Bodice Length: 43,5 cm – 17.13" (from shoulder to dropped waist)

Skirt Length: 58 cm – 22.83" (from dropped waist to hem)

Full Length: 101 cm – 39.76" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: XS-S

Reference Photo: Model wearing a striped dress with the same cut, textil-report, 1956.

Easy-chic tunic blouse or mini dress by Roberta di Camerino from the 1970s.

Description

This navy blue stretch jersey tunic features an unusual black geometric hourglass-like motif and a red logo print "ROBERTA DI CAMERINO" throughout. It has an open collar, long full sleeves with buttoned cuffs (gold-coloured "R" logo buttons) and is unlined. The tunic is made from polyester and labeled "Roberta di Camerino, Made in Italy". It should be worn loose and fits many sizes.

Designer

The house of Roberta di Camerino was founded by Giuliana Coen Camerino (1920-2002) in 1945 in Venice, Italy. The company's name is a combination of the name Roberta, taken from Giuliana Camerino's favourite song "Smoke gets in your eyes" and Camerino, her husband's surname. Giuliana Camerino was one of the first designers who created the idea of an easily recognizable status handbag. The neo-baroque style bags were produced of "Soprarizzo" velvet – originally used for furnishings – in the most beautiful and unusual colour combinations and clasps and studs created by the craftsmen of brass ornaments for gondolas. The result were truly revolutionary and unique bags. Already in 1956 Giuliana received the prestigious Neiman Marcus "Oscar of Fashion" Award. Further on the brand diversified its product range starting a clothing line characterized by high quality, simplicity and lightness. Trompe l'oeil prints of belts and buttons became Roberta di Camerino's signature designs. Her creations were loved by celebrities and royals all over the world, such as Grace Kelly, Princess Paola of Liegi, Elsa Maxwell and Isabella Rossellini.

Condition

This tunic is in excellent vintage condition.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 46 cm – 18.1"

Bust: 108 cm – 42.5"

Waist: 112 cm – 44.1"

Hips: 122 cm – 48"

Length: 83 cm – 32.7"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Sizes: One size fits almost all.

Germany up to 44 /

UK up to 18 / USA up to 14

Flamboyant 1980s Kamal Munich three-piece silk dress set of a bustier, skirt and wrap.

Description

This amazing 1980s three-piece dress set was made by Kamal Haute Couture in Munich. It consists of a bustier top, a skirt and a wrap or sash made from a wonderful shocking pink and emerald green dupioni silk. The fabric has a subtle iridescent metallic sheen to it that catches the light so that the entire dress shimmers at your slightest movement. It is quite light but do hold the intended shape of the skirt fabulously.

The bustier is cut with a strapless, sweetheart neckline and hugs the body. It is elaborately gathered at the front with hand placed and gathered folds and closes with a row of hooks and eyes. The high-waisted knee-length skirt features three tiers and a wide waistband. It is lined in the same silk fabric and closes with a center back zip and two fabric covered buttons.

The set comes with a matching silk wrap or sash that is in the same vibrant pink as the bustier. You could style it a variety of ways. Having the three separate pieces makes the set very versatile because you can wear it all together for the full look, or mix and match with modern pieces from your wardrobe. It is beautifully made and wonderfully extravagant.

Labeled "Kamal Haute Couture En Soie Munich" and tagged a German vintage size 38.

Condition

This set is in excellent vintage condition. Appears to have been worn very little, if at all.

Size &Fit

Bustier

Bust: circa 80 cm – 31.49" (side seam to side seam)

Waist: 71 cm – 27.95"

Length: 24 cm – 9.44“ (center front) / 18 cm – 7.08" (center back)

Skirt

Waist: 69 cm – 27.16"

Hips: open

Length: 62,5 cm – 24.60"

Wrap

Depth: 35 cm – 13.77"

Length: 103 cm – 40.55" to 119 cm – 46.85"

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust and waist.

Approximate Modern Size: S

Stunning documented A/W 1973 Léonard Fashion Paris 'Gringo' design geometric print jersey dress.

Description

This is a beautiful documented Léonard Fashion Paris jersey dress from the house’s Autumn/Winter 1973 'VIZIR' collection. The print is titled 'Gringo' in Léonard's marketing magazine from that year that I am happy to own in my fashion library. Please have a look at the reference photos featuring the dress in an all-over print in another colourway and a sister design from this collection.

The dress has a fitted cut through bodice with a natural waistline and long, slim sleeves. It is made of the finest pure silk jersey featuring one of Léonard's beautiful signature geometric prints in various shades of pink, purple, cinnamon and chocolate brown. Love the beautifully designed border around neckline, waistline and cuffs!

Beneath the defined waist the skirt flares to a below-the-knee-length, made of a solid chocolate brown high quality "Tergal et Viscose" jersey with perfect drape. The design is unlined and closes at the center back with a hand set painted zipper. The fabric is signed throughout. Labeled "LÉONARD FASHION PARIS Made in France". Tagged a vintage size "2. The fabric has stretch so the measurements below show the comfortable range.

Designer

Léonard was founded when Jacques Léonard asked Daniel Tribouillard in 1958 to join the company as the designer of a new business, Léonard Fashion. In 1968, Tribouillard presented his first collection of printed silk jersey dresses with a slogan emphasizing the lightness of the fabric: "The Léonard Dress: 150g of happiness". Only a few years later, the House began to produce silk scarves, ties and perfumes. Léonard is known for their vibrant coloured floral and geometric prints.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 41 cm – 16.14"

Bust: 84 cm – 33.07" (darts; unstretched)

Waist: 68 cm – 26.77" (unstretched; has a bit of stretch)

Hips: 102 cm – 40.15"

Sleeve length: 57 cm – 22.44"

Length: 107 cm – 42.12"

Measurements for bust, waist and hips are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED.

Modern Sizing Equivalent: S

Reference Photo: Léonard Fashion Paris A/W 1973 Marketing Magazine / Léonard Paris for Bergdorf Goodman Advertising, Vogue U.S., September 1973

Sophisticated numbered Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture ensemble from the early 2000s.

Description

This two piece set is made from scarlet red very delicate raw silk. The straight-cut tunic top features a demure neckline, long sleeves (cut in one with the dress at back), a hem slit in the left front, a slit pocket on the right front side and is slightly shorter at front. It fastens in the center back with a very fine hand set hidden painted metal and nylon zipper and an hook and eye at top back neck. The tunic has silk covered shoulder pads with bra strap fastenings and should be worn loose.

The matching straight-cut skirt has a narrow waistband, closes with a zipper and an hook and eye at the left side and goes just below the knees. There is a little tag sewn inside the front waistband stating that it is indeed the front. Both tunic and skirt are lined in a matching red silk charmeuse. This ensemble is finished to Haute Couture standards and entirely done by hand. The label reads "YVES SAINT LAURENT PARIS MADE IN FRANCE" and is numbered 074670. Both items can also be worn perfectly separate.

Please note: The photographs do not justice to the sophisticated elegance of this set as it had to be pinned quite a lot.

Designer

Yves Saint Laurent was born in 1936 in Oran, Algeria and began his career as an assistant of Christian Dior. When Dior died in 1957, he became the artistic director. In 1962 he opened his own fashion house, and in 1966, he created his ready-to-wear line Rive Gauche. By the 1980s, Yves Saint Laurent was a true icon. He was the first living designer to receive a solo exhibition in New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1983.

"When you put something on from Yves Saint Laurent's couture, there is an immediate sensual experience: everything, no matter what it's made of, is always lined in silk. That detail is emblematic of his total attitude toward women. He wants to spoil them, to envelop them in the pleasure of his clothes", said Catherine Deneuve.

Saint Laurent died in 2008.

Condition

This Haute Couture ensemble is in excellent vintage condition.

Size & Fit

Tunic

Shoulders: 42 cm – 16.5"

Bust: 102 cm – 40.2"

Waist: 112 cm – 44.1"

Hips: 116 cm – 45.7"

Sleeve length: 52 cm – 20.5"

Slit length: 30 cm – 11.8"

Length: 80 cm – 31.5" (front) /

85 cm – 33.5" (back)

Skirt

Waist: 86 cm – 33.8"

Hips: 110 cm – 43.3"

Length: 57 cm – 22.4"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Sizes:

Germany 42-44 / UK 16-18 /

USA 12-14

Stunning Léonard Fashion Paris signature floral print neck tie maxi dress from the 1970s.

Description

This is an elegant 1970s Léonard Fashion Paris maxi dress with one of their iconic vibrant floral prints covering the top. I love the flattering V-neckline with the signature contrasting trim that ends in ties that are finished with signed gold gilt tassel embellishments.

The dress has a fitted cut through bodice with a slightly low set waist and long, slim sleeves. It is made of the finest "mikado" silk jersey featuring one of Leonard's beautiful signature iris and bamboo prints in various shades of aqua, blue, green, purple and a contrasting dove grey on a jet black backdrop. The above mentioned contrasting trim runs around the waistline and the cuffs as well.

Beneath the defined waist the skirt flares to an ankle-length, made of a solid jet black first-class quality "can-can" jersey – 50% polyester, 50% viscose – with substantial weight and perfect drape. The design is unlined and closes at the center back with a hand set painted zipper. The fabric is signed throughout. Labeled "LEONARD FASHION PARIS Made in France". Tagged a vintage size "2.

The fabric has stretch so the measurements below show the comfortable range.

Designer

Léonard was founded when Jacques Léonard asked Daniel Tribouillard in 1958 to join the company as the designer of a new business, Léonard Fashion. In 1968, Tribouillard presented his first collection of printed silk jersey dresses with a slogan emphasizing the lightness of the fabric: "The Léonard Dress: 150g of happiness". Only a few years later, the House began to produce silk scarves, ties and perfumes. Léonard is known for their vibrant coloured floral prints.

Condition

The dress is in excellent vintage condition with slight discolouration under the arms. Gets lost in the print and does not distract from its beauty.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 41 cm – 16.14"

Bust: 87 cm – 34.25" (darts; unstretched)

Waist: 68 cm – 26.77" (slightly dropped; unstretched)

Hips: open

Sleeve length: 57 cm – 22.44"

Length: 136 cm – 53.54"

Measurements for bust and waist are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED.

Modern Sizing Equivalent: S–M

Reference photo: Léonard Paris advertising featuring a sister dress, c. 1970s.

Fabulous midnight blue silk cocktail dress with bow detailing by Louis Féraud from the 1980s.

Description

This lovely 1980s Louis Féraud dress is made from a crisp midnight blu silk taffeta. The drop waist number features a fitted crinkled elastic bodice that is very comfortable to wear. The star of the design is the bubble skirt with white edged bow detailing all over. The bows can be opened and tied as you wish.

The dress shows a round neckline, cap sleeves, small shoulder pads in matching fabric and fastens up the back with a 59 cm - 23.2" concealed zip. The dress finishes below the knee. Playful and sophisticated at the same time!

Signed "LOUIS FÉRAUD Made in W.-Germany" and marked a vintage size D40 / US10 / UK14 / F42.

Designer

Louis Féraud opened his first boutique in the 1950s in Cannes. There he met Brigitte Bardot and after she wore one of his dresses in public, it started a run of Féraud. Later he moved to Paris where he opened a boutique in 1956. Louis Féraud belongs to the group of couturiers that are still influencing French fashion today.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 40 cm - 15.7"

Bust: 88 cm (unstretched) - 34.6"

Waist: 76 cm (unstretched) - 29.9"

Hips: 94 cm (unstretched) - 37"

Length: 106 cm - 41.7"

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Sizes:

Germany 38-40 / UK 12-14 /

USA 8-10

Flamboyant 1980s flamenco-inspired polka dot dress by Akris of Switzerland.

Description

Signature polka dot design silk dress in black, creme-white and bright red has been by Akris of Switzerland. This knee-length dress is inspired by traditional Andalusian flamenco dresses and features all the typical characteristics with its polka dot pattern – that is also a signature design of the house of Akris – and the asymmetrical double layered flounced hem with a bright red tulle accent that peeks out under the lower frill. The bodice has a straight, slightly fitted cut, a collarless round neckline and small shoulder pads that can be easily removed. The sleeves end just below the elbow. Bodice and sleeves are unlined whereas the skirt is lined in creme-white silk taffeta to give it more volume. The dress closes with a back zipper and a hook and eye at the neck and is labeled "Akris of Switzerland". It is tagged a German size 40 / French size 42 / US size 10.

Designer

Akris was founded by Alice Kriemler-Schoch with just one sewing machine in St. Gallen, Switzerland, in 1922. She started making polka-dot aprons. In 1945, her son Max followed her and built Akris up into a high-end fashion house known all over the world for a new kind of luxury – modern, feminine and discrete and couture-quality materials. Since the 1980s, his two sons have jointly run the company: Albert und Peter Kriemler. Akris has developed for dressing powerful women such as Condoleezza Rice, Diane Sawyer and Princess Charlene of Monaco.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Note that although the dress appears to have been worn very little, if at all, there is one pulled thread on the front of the upper layer of the skirt and few marks on the skirt's back that may come out with additional cleaning. None that detract or mar the presentation of the dress in any way but mentioned for accuracy. Priced accordingly.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 42 cm – 16.5" (seam to seam)

Bust: 96 cm – 37.8" (under the arms from side seam to side seam)

Waist: 84 cm – 33.1"

Hips: 100 cm – 39.4"

Sleeve length: 36 cm – 14.2" (measured from shoulder seam)

Length: 90 cm – 35.4" to 100 cm – 39.4"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: M(-L)

Fanciful 1980s Louis Féraud embellished velvet and satin cocktail dress.

Description

This is an elaborately beaded and sequined Louis Féraud black pure cotton velvet and vibrant coloured satin cocktail dress. The knee-length dress features an abstract designed bodice in pink, red, vibrant green, blue and purple satin that is appliquéd in beaded and sequined black stars and trimmed with various black ribbons and tassel beads. The long sleeves have a slightly gathered shoulder with small shoulder pads and bra strap fastenings. The waist nips in and the black cotton velvet skirt has a fitted pencil cut with a back vent. The dress is fully lined in black viscose satin and closes with a center back zip. It is labeled "Louis Féraud, Made in West-Germany" and tagged a DE 36 / US 6 / UK 10 / FR 38.

Well made and striking!

Designer

Louis Féraud opened his first boutique in the 1950s in Cannes. There he met Brigitte Bardot and after she wore one of his dresses in public, it started a run of Féraud. Later he moved to Paris where he opened a boutique in 1956. Louis Féraud belongs to the group of couturiers that are still influencing French fashion today.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Appears to have been worn very little.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 40 cm – 15.7" (seam to seam)

Bust: 93 cm – 36.6"

Waist: 79 cm – 31.1"

Hips: 96 cm – 37.8"

Sleeve length: 55 cm – 21.7" 

Length: 95 cm – 37.4"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: S

Fabulous trompe l'oeil design belted dress by Roberta di Camerino from the 1970s.

Description

This pink and lobster-red belted polyester knit dress comes directly from the Roberta di Camerino archive in Italy (see archive's stamp on picture 8) and is therefore unworn. Dress and belt show an illusionistic print with black detailing adding to the idea of a fuller skirt in motion and a belt with stitches. This effect is called trompe l'oeil and means a "visual illusion in art, especially as used to trick the eye into perceiving a painted detail as a three-dimensional object" (Oxford Dictionaries).

The fitted dress has an open collar, darts at bustline, long sleeves with buttoned cuffs with gold metal logo print buttons and a matching belt with a a gold metal buckle and four holes that runs through four belt loops in matching fabric that are sewed on slightly below the natural waist. It slips on over the head with no closure, is unlined and its label reads "Roberta di Camerino Made in Italy". The dress shows the signature logo "R" imprint on the right sleeve above the cuff and is tagged an Italian size 44. There is still the original paper tag with detailed information regarding the model's name, size and price: “Vestito (dress) Gabbiano, (size) 44, 160.000 Lira (price)“.

Designer

The house of Roberta di Camerino was founded by Giuliana Coen Camerino (1920-2002) in 1945 in Venice, Italy. The company's name is a combination of the name Roberta, taken from Giuliana Camerino's favourite song "Smoke gets in your eyes" and Camerino, her husband's surname. Giuliana Camerino was one of the first designers who created the idea of an easily recognizable status handbag. The neo-baroque style bags were produced of "Soprarizzo" velvet – originally used for furnishings – in the most beautiful and unusual colour combinations and clasps and studs created by the craftsmen of brass ornaments for gondolas. The result were truly revolutionary and unique bags. Already in 1956 Giuliana received the prestigious Neiman Marcus "Oscar of Fashion" Award. Further on the brand diversified its product range starting a clothing line characterized by high quality, simplicity and lightness. Trompe l'oeil prints of belts and buttons became Roberta di Camerino's signature designs. Her creations were loved by celebrities and royals all over the world, such as Grace Kelly, Princess Paola of Liegi, Elsa Maxwell and Isabella Rossellini.

Condition

This dress is unworn and in excellent vintage condition. Two production-related tiny slightly brighter spots on the sleeves – only noticeable if you know where they are. The Roberta di Camerino's archive stamp on the inside of the hem does not show through.

Size & Fit

Dress

Shoulders: 37 cm – 14.6" (seam to seam)

Bust: 82 cm – 32.3" (unstretched)

Waist: 78 cm – 30.7" (unstretched)

Hips: 99 cm – 39" (unstretched)

Sleeve length: 61 cm – 24"

Length: 121 cm – 47.6"

Belt

Length: 96 cm – 37.8"

Width: 3 cm – 1.2"

Holes: from 72 to 82,5 cm – 28.3" to 32.5"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Size:

Germany 36 / UK 10 / USA 6

Elegant black cocktail dress with deep keyhole back neckline by Louis Féraud from the 1980s.

Description

This dress features a black velvet wrap effect blousy cut bodice with a plunging neckline and a woolen fitted pencil skirt draped with gathered velvet at the hip area. The dropped-shoulder style top has long dolman sleeves that become narrow to the wrist, a deep keyhole opening on the back that closes with a large rhinestone button at the neck and is unlined. The skirt has a 24 cm - 9.4" center back vent, fastens with a rear concealed zipper and hook and eye and is fully lined. Its drapery is fixed at the waist line and closes on the left side with six rhinestone buttons. The dress is labeled "Louis Féraud" and tagged a German size 38 / US size 8 / UK size 12 / F size 40. It finishes a palm below the knee.

Designer

Louis Féraud opened his first boutique in the 1950s in Cannes. There he met Brigitte Bardot and after she wore one of his dresses in public, it started a run of Féraud. Later he moved to Paris where he opened a boutique in 1956. Louis Féraud belongs to the group of couturiers that are still influencing French fashion today.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition – hardly ever worn.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: free (dolman sleeves)

Bust: free (dolman sleeves)

Waist: 70 cm – 27.6"

Hips: 93 cm – 36.6"

Sleeve length: 71 cm – 28" (dolman sleeves; measured from the neckline)

Waist to hem: 66 cm – 26"

Length: 110 cm – 43.3"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Size:

Germany 36 / UK 10 / USA 6

Fabulous signature print two-piece dress by Roberta di Camerino from 1977.

Description

This jersey blouse and skirt set features a signature trompe l'oeil belt print in red and white on a black background with the iconic "R" printed in between. The blouse has an open collar and long sleeves with buttoned cuffs (gold-coloured "R" logo buttons).

The skirt features three inverted pleats at the front, belt loops and a concealed rear 15 cm – 5.9" zip with a hook and eye fastening. The dress is unlined, made from polyester and dated on the designer’s label to 1977. Tagged an Italian vintage size 42.

Designer

The house of Roberta di Camerino was founded by Giuliana Coen Camerino (1920-2002) in 1945 in Venice, Italy. The company's name is a combination of the name Roberta, taken from Giuliana Camerino's favourite song "Smoke gets in your eyes" and Camerino, her husband's surname. Giuliana Camerino was one of the first designers who created the idea of an easily recognizable status handbag. The neo-baroque style bags were produced of "Soprarizzo" velvet – originally used for furnishings – in the most beautiful and unusual colour combinations and clasps and studs created by the craftsmen of brass ornaments for gondolas. The result were truly revolutionary and unique bags. Already in 1956 Giuliana received the prestigious Neiman Marcus "Oscar of Fashion" Award. Further on the brand diversified its product range starting a clothing line characterized by high quality, simplicity and lightness. Trompe l'oeil prints of belts and buttons became Roberta di Camerino's signature designs. Her creations were loved by celebrities and royals all over the world, such as Grace Kelly, Princess Paola of Liegi, Elsa Maxwell and Isabella Rossellini.

Condition

This dress is in very good vintage condition. Very good vintage condition. Few hardly visible snags and small faint yellowish spots on the blouse that get lost in the print.

Size & Fit

Blouse (unstretched)

Shoulders: 39 cm – 15.4"

Bust: 86 cm – 33.8"

Waist: 76 cm – 29.9"

Length: 67 cm – 26.4"

Skirt (unstretched)

Waist: 70 cm – 27.6"

Hips: 98 cm – 38.6"

Length: 55 cm – 21.7"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Tagged Size: I 42

Corresponding Modern Size:

Germany 36 / UK 10 / USA 6

Classy little black vintage dress with oversized bow detailing.

Description

This shift dress is made from pure black wool crepe and features a crew neck with a split, short sleeves, darts at bustline and a 13 cm – 5.1" flounce with a slit at the bottom of the dress. An oversized black raw silk bow sits at the front left hemline. The dress has very small sewn-in shoulder pads, is fully lined and fastens up the back with a concealed zip. It is a timeless and very flattering dress for many different body types and finishes just below the knee. Day or night - dress it up, dress it down!

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 40 cm – 15.7" (seam to seam)

Bust: 96 cm – 37.8"

Waist: 88 cm – 34.6"

Hips: 100 cm – 39.4"

Sleeve length: 30 cm – 11.8"

Length: 98 cm – 38.6"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Size:

Germany 38 / UK 12 / USA 8

Striking avant garde coated silk draped dress by Yohji Yamamoto from the 1990s.

Description

This minimalist yet feminine draped midi dress is crafted from a lustrous charcoal grey coated rustling silk. The sleeveless piece is fitted in the bodice (darts at bustline), with an A-line skirt and features a buttoned front. The draped capelet-like collar can be worn in different ways. The dress is unlined with a coppery inside. It is labeled "Yohji Yamamoto, Made in Japan" and tagged a size M.

Designer

Yohji Yamamoto was born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1943. He studied law before turning to fashion and launched his own company in 1974. The only Japanese fashion designer to have been awarded the French Chevalier de L'Ordre des Art et Lettres, Yamamoto is also the recipient of the American Fashion Award. He is known for the avant-garde tailoring featuring Japanese design aesthetics. His signature often oversized silhouettes in mostly dark colours feature drapery in varying textures. Yohji Yamamoto's custom-made textiles use a variety of traditional Japanese techniques. All his fabrics are made in Japan to his own specifications, making them unique to his designs. "Fabric is everything. Often I tell my pattern makers: "Just listen to the material. What is it going to say? Just wait. Probably the material will teach you something."" – Yohji Yamamoto.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Some discolouration on the inside that seems to be production-related though.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 48 cm – 18.9" (slightly overlapping)

Bust: 100 cm – 39.4" (with darts)

Waist: 72 cm – 28.3"

Hips: free

Length: 130 cm – 51.2"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust and waist.

Corresponding Modern Size:

Germany 36 / UK 10 / USA 6

Magical gold brocade gown with sable fur trim by Oscar de la Renta from c. Fall 1970.

Description

Oscar de la Renta once stated, "Magical stories about Russia … fed my imagination and made me dream". In 1967 the designer won the Coty American Fashion Critics Award which honored a collection that included Russian-inspired brocaded gowns trimmed in fur, recalling the opulent court of Catherine the Great. “The handsome, dark-haired designer’s ready-to-wear efforts have been hailed as almost-couture, particularly his recently shown fall and winter collection,” reported The Times. “In it, Mr. de la Renta ranged from the splendor of Imperial Russia..."

Here we have a fabulous and rare early 1970s Oscar de la Renta – very likely from his Ballets Russes-inspired Fall 1970 collection – metallic brocade gown trimmed in sable fur. It is not only very representative of his work during this time period but also a design that will become more important in course of time as pieces designed by Oscar de la Renta himself become more and more collectible.

This one comes direct from my couture client who lived in the United States at that time. She recalls to have worn this gown for her last hunting ball. As big landowners they hosted an annual Hubertus hunt with Jacqueline Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor amongst the illustrious guests.

The dress is incredibly beautiful and elegant! The fabric is a wonderful lustrous metallic gold brocade with accents in turquoise, orange and black. It is lighter in weight than you would think at first glance but heavy enough to hold and retain the shape that it should have. The cut is kept simple to allow that stunning fabric to take center stage. The skirt falls from the waist and flares out as it nears the hem. I love the hidden pockets that are along the side seams of the skirt. The flattering scoop neckline and each cuff is ringed with luxurious and rich black genuine sable fur. Fully lined in a light black silky rayon, the design closes at the back with a painted metal zipper and three hooks and eyes at the neck. Labeled "Oscar de La Renta boutique" and "Saks Fifth Avenue". Tagged a US vintage size 8.

Condition

This dress is in excellent, museum quality condition. Has been worn very little.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 39 cm – 15.4" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 88 cm – 34.6"

Waist: 78 cm – 30.7"

Hips: open

Sleeve Length: 61 cm – 24" (including sable cuff)

Length: 145 cm – 57.1" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: S-M

Reference Photos: Designs from Oscar de la Renta's Russian-inspired collections featured at the "Oscar de la Renta: The Retrospective" exhibition at de Young Museum, San Francisco, 2016 / Coat and dress ensemble from the designer's Fall 1968 collection as shown at "The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta" exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, 2017/18 / Oscar de la Renta advertising for Saks Fifth Avenue showing a dress in a similar fabric, Harper’s Bazaar, September 1970.

Stunning documented Spring/Summer 1987 runway dress by Yves Saint Laurent.

Description

This documented strapless cocktail dress has been designed by Yves Saint Laurent for his Spring/Summer 1987 collection. It is constructed from black Point d'Esprit tulle, entirely pleated along the body with a large signature pink ruffle hem finish done in a linen-like fabric that holds the shape and volume while still being light in weight. The internal black cotton bodice features fastenings and boning for extra support and a hidden metal zipper up the left side with hook-and-eye closure. The dress ends just above the knee and is marked a French vintage size 42. Estimated modern size M.

Love the dramatic yet feminine effect at the same time!

Designer

Yves Saint Laurent was born in 1936 in Oran, Algeria and began his career as an assistant of Christian Dior. When Dior died in 1957, he became the artistic director. In 1962 he opened his own fashion house, and in 1966, he created his ready-to-wear line Rive Gauche. By the 1980s, Yves Saint Laurent was a true icon. He was the first living designer to receive a solo exhibition in New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1983. He died in 2008.

Condition

Excellent vintage condition. Appears to have been worn very little if at all.

Size & Fit

Bust: 84 cm - 33.1" (underarm to underarm)

Waist: 76 cm - 29.9"

Hips: 96 cm - 37.8"

Ruffle Width: 29 cm - 11.4“

Length: 80 cm - 31.5" (center top of bodice to hem)

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: M

Reference photo: S/S 1987 Yves Saint Laurent Runway

Sophisticated sea green, c. early 1970s, mod dress by André Courrèges.

Description

This, c. early 1970s, minimalist André Courrèges belted dress features the characteristic clean cut and comes in a fresh sea green.

The design has a round neck, rounded shoulders and the signature Courrèges logo embroidered to the center front right below the neckline. A seam with an elastic band and a tie belt in matching fabric that is fixed at the back run around the waist. The dress finishes just below the knee and closes at the center back with a concealed zip and a hook and eye at the neckline.

It is made from a wool blend and fully lined. Labeled "Courrèges Paris Hyperbole Made in France" and tagged a vintage size 0. Dress number: 076420. Style number: 14104.

Designer

André Courrèges is known as 'Le Corbusier of Fashion'. He worked under Balenciaga for ten years. In 1961 he opened his own fashion house and began to develop a different look. The first of his 'space age' inspired collections was shown in 1964. From 1965 on until 1971 Courrèges launched three lines: Prototype (couture collection), Couture Future (made-to-order custom line) and Hyberbole (ready-to-wear range for the younger market).

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. One tiny tea coloured spot at the front near the hem that may come out with additional cleaning. Only visible under close inspection.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 43 cm - 16.9"

Bust: 86 cm - 33.8"

Waist: 68 cm - 26.8" (unstretched)

Hips: 96 cm - 37.8"

Length: 99 cm - 39"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Modern Sizing Equivalent:

up to S 

Reference Photos: Marella Agnelli wearing a Courrèges wool dress by Henry Clarke for Vogue, January 1967 / Model in Courrèges by Bert Stern for Vogue, March 1969. / Fashion editorial shot found on Pinterest.

Exceptional Roberta di Camerino wool jersey maxi dress from the 1970s.

Description

This characteristic Roberta di Camerino maxi dress termed "ZIG ZAG PANNELLO" on the still present original paper tag dates back to the 1970s. It comes directly from the Roberta di Camerino archive in Italy (see archive's stamp on picture 9) and is unworn.

The design shows a geometric, almost architectural, and instantly recognizable Roberta di Camerino illusion print pretending the dress to be a three-piece set of a blouse, some kind of wrap cardigan and a pleated zigzag motif skirt. This effect is called trompe l'oeil and means a "visual illusion in art, especially as used to trick the eye into perceiving a painted detail as a three-dimensional object" (Oxford Dictionaries).

The dress has that perfect seventies cut of a fitted bodice with a pointed shirt collar and a floor-length skirt that flares out towards the hem. The main colors of red, green and blue with black accents are the signature Roberta di Camerino hues that Giuliana Coen Camerino often used in her designs. Here she added a wonderful plum shade that Iooks perfect with both the red and the green.

The bodice and the cuffs of the long sleeves close with the most amazing "R" embossed gold-toned metal signature buttons. Made from a high-quality and soft pure virgin wool jersey, the dress has some stretch. It is unlined and slips over the head. The label reads "Roberta di Camerino Made in Italy". Tagged an Italian vintage size 44.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. One tiny hole at the edge of the hem at the back, though only visible under close inspection (see close-up).

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 38 cm – 15" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 90 cm – 35.4" (bust darts; measured across under the arms; unstretched)

Waist: 78 cm – 30.7" (unstretched)

Hips: 94 cm – 37" (unstretched)

Sleeve Length: 59 cm – 23.2"

Length: 152 cm – 59.8" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: M

Reference Photo: Roberta di Camerino advertising featuring creations in the designer's signature colors red, green and blue, 1968.

Eye-catching jersey mod maxi dress with matching scarf by Louis Féraud from c. 1970.

Description

This vibrant c. 1970 Louis Féraud maxi dress shows a clashing abstract mod pattern in various shades of pink, blue and purple.

It features a figure-hugging silhouette, a round neck, bust darts and long sleeves. The dress is made from a lightweight stretch jersey fabric that is signed throughout. It is unlined and fastens in the back with four pink spherical buttons. Very well "Made in Germany" and labeled "LOUIS FERAUD PARIS". Tagged a vintage size 42 (D).

The design comes with a matching long scarf that can be styled in various ways. Love how the scarf was tied as a head scarf à la piratess in the editorial shot that you see in picture 13. Very bohemian!

I am happy to have found documentation of versions of this dress. Please have a look at the last two pictures. One of them shows French singer and actress Françoise Hardy in Paris, c. 1970.

Condition

Both dress and scarf are in excellent vintage condition. Appears to be worn very litte, if at all.

Size & Fit

Dress

Shoulders: 37,5 cm – 14.76" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 90 cm – 35.43" (bust darts; measured across under the arms; unstretched)

Waist: 76 cm – 29.92" (unstretched)

Hips: 92 cm – 36.22" (unstretched)

Sleeve Length: 58 cm – 22.83"

Length: 154 cm - 60.62" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Scarf

Width: 23,5 cm – 9.25"

Length: 150 cm – 59.05"

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: M

Reference photos: Model wearing a similar Louis Féraud Maxi Dress with Scarf from his Spring/Summer 1970 Collection, Courtesy of AFP via Getty Images / Françoise Hardy in a similar Louis Féraud Maxi Dress, Paris. Photographed by Michael Holtz, c. 1970.

Eye-popping and collectable Fall 1989 colour-block wool knit dress by Patrick Kelly from his final runway collection.

Description

"“I want my clothes to make you smile” – that was the goal of African American fashion designer Patrick Kelly. He achieved this on the streets, nightclubs and runways of New York, Paris, and beyond in the heady 1980s. In the process, he became the first American and first Black designer to be voted into the Chambre Syndicale, a prestigious fashion association." – Courtesy of Philadelphia Museum of Art

This is one of a series of form fitting colour-block dresses Patrick Kelly did for his iconic and final Fall 1989 collection. A rare and highly collectible piece that will only increase in value.

The twin of this dress was shown in the exhibition "Patrick Kelly: A Retrospective" at Brooklyn Museum in 2004. Versions of it walked the runway in March 1989 and are held by numerous fashion museums. Please see the reference photos after the label shot.

Made of a black high-quality virgin wool knit the elegant, yet unpretentious, design with just the right amount of sexiness has vivid primary colour thick stripes running along a wide sash. Bright red, blue and yellow on a black base create a wonderful eye-popping contrast. The dress features a simple, figure-enhancing cut with skinny long sleeves and the sash being sewn to it across the waist and hips, then is free to throw over the shoulder.

The design has lightly padded shoulders, closes with a center back zip and is unlined. Ends just above the knee. The fabric does have some stretch and the measurements provided below are the comfortable range when laying flat. Made in France. Tagged a FR 44, CH/D 42, US 12, GB 16. Runs small. See measurements below.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition with a tiny, almost invisible, hole on the yellow stripe at the end of the sash. See close-up image 9. Otherwise appears to have been worn very little.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 46 cm – 18.11"

Bust: 90 cm – 35.43"

Waist: 74 cm – 29.13"

Hips: 90 cm – 35.43"

Sleeve length: 61 cm – 24.01"

Sash length: 148 cm – 58.26"

Length: 106 cm – 41.73"

Measurements for bust, waist and hips are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED.

Modern Sizing Equivalent: M

Reference Photos: The twin of this dress as displayed at "Patrick Kelly: A Retrospective" at Brooklyn Museum in 2004 / Patrick Kelly Fashion Show, March 1989, Photo: Paul van Riel / Sister versions of this dress at Philadelphia Museum of Art

Beyond beautiful Emilio Pucci "Ruota" print silk jersey dress from 1970. The matching shoulder bag is available in the shop too.

Description

"By the early 1960s, Pucci prints, in the form of lightweight, easily packed silk jersey dresses, were tremendously popular with the international jet set. Not only were the prints exciting, but also the fit. Pucci's dresses were designed to highlight the body, lacking the rigid understructure of most 1950s dress designs. Widely copied at all price-points, the exuberant pattern and figure-skimming silhouette of a Emilio Pucci dress embodied the youthful, optimistic spirit that dominated the 1960s." Courtesy of FIDM Museum Blog, 2010

This is a rare and gorgeous Emilio Pucci dress from 1970. The luxurious Italian-produced silk jersey displays one of Pucci's Pre-Columbian art-inspired motifs, the "Ruota" print. A fabulous Aztec-esque design in shades of turquoise, blue, lilac, purple, grey, black and white. The design is documented on emiliopucciheritage.com and in the Emilio Pucci book by Taschen.

The same dress with a different print and in another colour scheme is part of the permanent collection of The Museum at FIT in NYC. Please see the photo after the label shot.

The design has a fitted bodice with bust darts, a round neckline and long full sleeves with wide cuffs. The bodice features a banded empire waistline and continues into a lightly gathered skirt. Love the decorative geometric border along collar, waist, sides, cuffs and hem!

It is unlined but it does have a fine cotton muslin interior border in white hand stitched in place around the collar and the waistband. It closes with a hand placed painted metal zipper at the center back and a hook and eye at the neck. The cuffs close with a row of fabric covered, hand placed snaps. Interior Petersham ribbon waistband. Hand finished throughout. The print is vivid and bright. The fabric does have slight stretch and is signed throughout. The label reads "EMILIO PUCCI FLORENCE – ITALY". Marked size: "10" (Vintage).

This dress is hard to come by and a fantastic wearable collector's piece. Especially in combination with the matching shoulder bag available in the shop as well.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Appears to be worn very little, if at all.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 38 cm – 15"

Bust: 88 cm – 34.6"

Empire Waist: 72 cm – 28.3"

Hips: 116 cm – 45.7"

Sleeve length: 65 cm – 25.6"

Length: 110 cm – 43.3"

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: S

Reference Photos: A 1968 Emilio Pucci dress from the permanent collection of The Museum at FIT, NYC. / Silk scarf "Ruota", 1970, in a different colour scheme. Courtesy of Emilio Pucci Heritage Hub.

Fabulous trompe l'oeil "Hippie" maxi dress by Roberta di Camerino from 1976.

Description

This outstanding  Roberta di Camerino maxi dress termed "Hippie" on the still present original paper tag dates back to 1976. It comes directly from the Roberta di Camerino archive in Italy and is unworn.

The green twin of this dress in a bigger size is available in the shop as well.

The design shows a quite unusual yet instantly recognizable Roberta di Camerino illusion print of black stitches and side pockets on a blue bodice that imitates the look of denim, a little darker blue triangular yoke downwards the waist and a plain blue skirt. This effect is called trompe l'oeil and means a "visual illusion in art, especially as used to trick the eye into perceiving a painted detail as a three-dimensional object" (Oxford Dictionaries).

The dress has a V-neck with an open pointed collar, darts at bustline and long sleeves with cuffs that close with gold-toned metal logo buttons. It shows the signature logo "R" imprint on the upper part of both sleeves and a floor-length flared skirt. Made from a high-quality polyester jersey of a good weight, the dress has some stretch. It is unlined and slips over the head. The label reads "Roberta di Camerino Made in Italy". Tagged an Italian vintage size 42.

Condition

New old stock. Inside near the hem a greenish mark from the archive's stamp. Not visible from outside. See picture.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 35 cm – 13.78" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 82 cm – 32.28" (bust darts; measured across under the arms; unstretched)

Waist: 68 cm – 26.77" (unstretched)

Hips: 74 cm – 29.13" (unstretched)

Sleeve Length: 62 cm – 24.41"

Length: 151 cm – 59.45" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size:

up to S

Elegant long pleated chiffon evening dress by Louis Féraud from the 1970s.

Description

By the 1970s The House of Louis Féraud was well established and in 1978 the couturier won the prestigious "Golden Thimble Award". This dress comes direct from a client who purchased it in and around that same time period in Munich, Germany.

This is an elegant and beautiful 1970s Louis Féraud evening dress and the colour of it is a marvelous cornflower blue! The sheer impact of that vivid colour from head to toe together with the impression of dresses of the ancient Greeks is all drama.

The dress is made out of a light chiffon and a masterpiece of pleat work. The vertically pleated bodice has a deep V-neck and goes down into a wide band at the waist where the pleats have been placed horizontally for a bit of visual impact. Below that the pleated skirt flares out with lots of movement. The sleeves are cut to pouf above the wide horizontally pleated cuffs and close with three fabric covered domed buttons. They are unlined so that you get a touch of transparency through the pleated chiffon.

Bodice and skirt are lined with a matching coloured silky rayon. The dress closes with a center back set zipper. Labeled "Louis Féraud Paris" and tagged a German vintage size 36.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Two atomic holes on the right sleeve that get lost in the pleats. Only mentioned for accuracy. Professionally cleaned and pressed by hand.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 39 cm – 15.35" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 80 cm – 31.49" (measured across under the arms)

Waist: 60 cm – 23.62"

Hips: 99 cm – 39" (lining; chiffon skirt free)

Sleeve Length: 66 cm – 25.98"

Length: 140 cm – 55.11" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: XS

Fabulous trompe l'oeil "Hippie" maxi dress by Roberta di Camerino from 1976.

Description

This outstanding Roberta di Camerino maxi dress termed "Hippie" on the still present original paper tag dates back to 1976. It comes directly from the Roberta di Camerino archive in Italy (see archive's stamp on picture 9) and is unworn.

The blue twin of this dress in a smaller size is available in the shop as well.

The design shows a quite unusual yet instantly recognizable Roberta di Camerino illusion print of black stitches and side pockets on a light green bodice that imitates the look of denim, a little darker green triangular yoke downwards the waist and a plain olive green skirt. This effect is called trompe l'oeil and means a "visual illusion in art, especially as used to trick the eye into perceiving a painted detail as a three-dimensional object" (Oxford Dictionaries).

The dress has a V-neck with an open pointed collar, darts at bustline and long sleeves with cuffs that close with gold-toned metal logo buttons. It shows the signature logo "R" imprint on the upper part of both sleeves and a floor-length flared skirt. Made from a high-quality polyester jersey of a good weight, the dress has some stretch. It is unlined and slips over the head. The label reads "Roberta di Camerino Made in Italy". Tagged an Italian vintage size 46.

Condition

New old stock. The Roberta di Camerino's archive stamp on the inside of the hem does not show through.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 40,5 cm – 15.94" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 94 cm – 37" (bust darts; measured across under the arms; unstretched)

Waist: 86 cm – 33.85" (unstretched)

Hips: 94 cm – 37" (unstretched)

Sleeve Length: 61 cm – 24.01"

Length: 152 cm – 59.84" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: M–L

Beautiful day to evening silk dress by James Galanos, probably late 1980s.

Description

This slightly fitted dress features a fabulous floral print in bright red and metallic gold against a black background. The upper part is crafted from silk satin, the lower part, starting from the hips downwards, is done in brocade with a gold lurex thread woven in. The two fabrics work wonderful together – the top fabric a feminine bold larger-sized floral design in silk satin that goes perfect with the heavy weight also floral but more demure patterned brocade that gives the dress structure and extra dimension. Note the perfection of how the brocade's pattern blend in the satin's (see photo 7). The neckline is kept to a simple scoop and the sleeves long and slim with a hand set zip at wrist. The dress is fully lined in black silk satin with piped silk satin finished interior seams and closes with a fine, painted metal, hand set zip at center back and a hook and eye at the back neck. It finishes just below the knee and is labeled "Galanos" and "Saks Fifth Avenue".

Designer

James Galanos was born 1924 in Philadelphia and, after graduation from the Traphagen School of Fashion in New York in 1943, he found work as a journeyman selling sketches to design houses. After working as an assistant to the designer Hattie Carnegie for a time he moved aged twenty to California, where he apprenticed himself to the costume designer Jean Louis at Columbia Studios and remained for the rest of his career. James Galanos embodied the concept that elegance is refusal and stuck to designing costly luxury clothing. Nancy Reagan once remarked of a Galanos dress that "you can wear one inside out, they are so beautifully made." He dressed the famous and the socially prominent among others Grace Kelly, Marlene Dietrich and Diana Ross. Galanos retired from fashion in 1998. He died in 2016.

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Seems unworn apart from a well done repair of a tear on the lining at the lower back. Not visible on the outside.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 39 cm – 15.4" (seam to seam)

Bust: 94 cm – 37"

Waist: 82 cm – 32.3"

Hips: 102 cm – 40.2"

Sleeve length: 58 cm – 22.8"

Length: 100 cm – 39.4"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Sizes:

Germany (36)-38 / UK (10)-12 /

USA (6)-8

Enchanting 1980s made-to-measure cocktail dress by Sweetheart Munich.

Description

This strapless bustier dress in vibrant red with a floral print features a sweetheart neckline, a boned bodice and a removable flower in matching fabric. It has a concealed rear 31 cm - 12.2" hook and eye closure, a 12 cm - 4.7" rear slit with a grosgrain ribbon edging and is fully lined. It finishes above the knee.

Designer

Sweetheart Munich was founded by Rolf Albrecht und Bernd Stockinger in the 1960s. In their couture atelier and boutique they designed and sold made-to-measure fashion for socialites and actresses like Bianca Jagger and Marisa Berenson. 

Condition

This dress is in excellent vintage condition. Some staining on the lining that may come out with additional cleaning. Not to be seen when wearing.

Size & Fit

Bust: 80 cm - 31.5"

Waist: 66 cm - 26"

Hips: 89 cm - 35"

Length: 50 cm (from waist) - 19.7"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Size:

Germany 34 / UK 8 / USA 4

Fabulous Roberta di Camerino trompe l'oeil maxi dress from the 1970s.

Description

This notice-me maxi dress by Roberta di Camerino termed "Dream" on the still present original paper tag dates back to the 1970s. It comes directly from the Roberta di Camerino archive in Italy (see archive's stamp on picture 10) and is unworn. 

The vibrant design shows a dynamic and instantly recognizable Roberta di Camerino illusion print of what could be either draped pleats or swirling flames on a vibrant orange to yellow gold gradient background starting from the bodice to the hem. This effect is called trompe l'oeil and means a "visual illusion in art, especially as used to trick the eye into perceiving a painted detail as a three-dimensional object" (Oxford Dictionaries).

The dress has that perfect seventies cut with a V-neck with pointed collar and long sleeves with cuffs that close with the most amazing "R" embossed gold-toned metal buttons. The floor-length skirt flares out at the hem. Made from a high-quality polyester jersey of a good weight, the dress has some stretch. It is unlined and slips over the head. The label reads "Roberta di Camerino Made in Italy". Tagged an Italian vintage size 46.

Condition

New old stock. The Roberta di Camerino's archive stamp on the inside shows slightly through near the hem (see second last picture). Priced accordingly.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 42 cm – 16.53" (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)

Bust: 96 cm – 37.79" (bust darts; measured across under the arms; unstretched)

Waist: 90 cm – 35.43" (unstretched)

Hips: 104 cm – 40.94" (unstretched)

Sleeve Length: 58 cm – 22.83"

Length: 155 cm – 61.02" (measured from shoulder to hem)

Measurements are taken flat and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: L

Flattering 1980s black ruffle neckline evening dress by Swanson's on the plaza.

Description

This gown is made from black wool and cotton mix fabric, maybe rayon and is fully lined. The scooped neckline shows dramatic ruffles. The gown is fitted over the bust and waist.

A 36 cm - 14.2" slit up the left side of the skirt allows movement. The dress fastens up the back with a 42 cm - 16.5" concealed zip with two hook and eyes.

Designer

Swanson's on the plaza

Condition

This gown is in excellent vintage condition.

Size & Fit

Shoulders: 44 cm - 17.3"

Bust: 102 cm - 40.2"

Waist: 81cm - 31.9"

Hips: 104 cm - 40.9"

Length: 138 cm - 54.3"

Measurements are taken flat and then doubled for bust, waist and hips.

Corresponding Modern Size: L