Elegant 1930s black satin gown with stunning couture detail over the bodice. 

Satin fabrics from the 1930s have beautiful drape and rich luster, there is nothing to compare. The satin in this gown is a deep black, weighty charmeuse in rayon.

The silhouette looks simple at first glance.... undefined torso with long skirt however there is nothing simple about the design. The bodice is gently shaped with tiny open ended darts radiating from the waist. The waist seam itself is detailed with three scallops, from this the skirts flows into multiple, fluted gores. The sleeves are 3/4 length with an lovely built in drape. The drape of the sleeves keep their shape with the use of hidden cloth covered weights. At the waist is a built in front to back sash that closes which  snaps at the side. The design is wonderful but the crowning glory is the gorgeous detail work over the bodice.....tightly ruched satin strips fan out over a deep scoop of nude chiffon and mesh, in between the strips are aurora sequins. Nude chiffon covers the chest up to the neck.  Just beautiful.

The gown is definitely 1930s and I think it's later in the decade as it closes with delicate brass zippers at the side seam and center back, plus the shoulders are padded but the silhouette looks more 1920s. Most 30s dresses I see tend to have some figure definition unless they were made for matrons but in that case the necklines and arm holes are usually roomy. This dress has a small neck and high armscyes so it's a bit of a mystery to me. Perhaps it was made for an expectant mother... maybe it's just a unique design for the time. Whatever the story it's beautiful.

There is one issue of note regarding Condition. At the right shoulder the chiffon inset had pulled away from the seam a bit. This has been reinforced and should be OK if it is treated gently but it is noticeable on close inspection. There is a picture of this so please take a look. The rest of the garment is in excellent condition.

I would say the size would be best on a medium, clothing this old should be worn a bit loose so as not to strain the fabric so you will want to allow for a good amount of ease when you compare measurements.. As noted before the neckline is quite high and close and the shoulder width is on the narrow side. Below are the actual garment measurements.

Bust - 40"

Waist- 36

Hips - 42

Length shoulder to hem - 53"

Shoulder to Shoulder width - 14 1/2"

Attend your next social affair amidst a swirl of black chiffon! The heavenly frock you are viewing was created in the 1930s. .
The outer layer is done in yards n' yards of flowing black silk chiffon. First the bodice is lightly draped with an attached shawl. This piece hangs to the waist in back, flows over the shoulders and plunges to a deep V in front. Beneath this is a built in V neck, chamisole in ivory silk chiffon which has delicate chantilly like embroidery. The edge of the chamisole is scalloped and it ends just below the bust. It does not show in the picture but below the V, at the waist are two large flowers in black silk velvet. They are made from of a multitude of soft petals and give the impression of peonies. The bodice then loosely falls to a dropped waist. At this point there is a 1" black chiffon belt with a silver tone and rhinestone buckle in a pre-deco design. The skirt is cut in bias panels which curve in a "waterfall" design on both sides. This reminds me of some of Lanvins dresses. It is skillfully made with an ivory chiffon lining in the bodice and black silk taffeta underskirt. The finest feature is the way the fabric flows with movement. It would be perfection on the dance floor! 

This is a plus size dress approx. a 1X. Although it is in excellent condition and the fabric still has its integrity it is nearly 80 years old and will need tender treatment. It's most vulnerable moments are when being put on and taken off.  When removing, gently take hold of the skirt and its lining and carefully  "peel" the dress up and off. If there is someone to help that's even better! With such delicate vintage I recommend you "pad" your measurements well so there is no risk of straining the material. The catual measurements are as follows.

Bust 49"

Waist 46"

Hips 50"

Excellent Condition

 Filmy Silk Georgette and Chantilly lace gown from the early 1930s. The color is a lovely antique blue with ivory lace accents. A stunning example of early 1930s fashion. Loose dropped waist bodice and bias panel skirt...long sleeves with deep cuffs trimmed in lace. The dress is in two attached parts consisting of a lace and silk crepe de chine under slip... with V neck georgette over dress. A self fabric belt circles the dropped waist. The dress closes at the side with snaps. The fabrics used are light and filmy so the dress flutters and floats around the body with movement. It would be a dream for gliding across the ballroom floor.

I seldom find such early pieces in this wonderful condition. It is delicate but still strong enough to wear . I do advise the buyer to pad their measurements so the dress falls loosely to prevent strain on the fabric and I would also recommend extra care while dressing and undressing.

 The size is smaller than it appears. The outer dress is much more loosely cut than the under slip. I would call it a smallish medium with the following measurements.

Under slip

 Bust JUST makes 36"

Waist 36"

Hip 39"

Outer Dress

 Arm hole opening just 18" circumference

Shoulder to shoulder 15" (narrow)

Length from shoulder to hem 48"

Very Good Condition - As I stated above this dress is in amazing condition especially considering it's delicate nature and age. There are no tears or holes and the fabric and lace are in great shape. There are however a few VERY faint marks on the skirt. They are so light my camera would not pick them up. It's difficult to see them unless you hold the fabric out and scrutinize. They are not noticeable when the dress is being worn and do not detract from it's beauty.

40s Elegance

Bias cut Plum rayon crepe (a shade darker than the picture) with antique-silver bugle beaded bodice. The bodice is loosely fitted with padded cap shoulder and V neckline. There is a long peplum which dips a bit in the back for a more elegant line (see the detail pictures) Underneath is a long straight skirt with a modest center front slit. It closes with a side metal zipper.

These vintage gowns are among my favorites. The bias cut skims the body so fluidly yet the long peplum camouflages any figure imperfections. This style seems to look lovely on anyone. The beading on this one adds that extra touch to make it a all the more special. At one time it had a belt, there are cricheted belt loops on the sides. It's long gone but you can either wear it without (I would remove the belt loops in that case) or you can belt it with a ribbon sash or belt of your own.

The size is Medium with the following measurements.

Bust 37"
Waist 27"
Hips 38"
Skirt length 42"

Excellent Condition

Elegant white jersey gown from the 1940s.

The material is a creamy white rayon jersey with a sensual drape. Cut away neckline. Padded shoulders and shirred draped bodice. Long narrow sleeves with gauntlet peak at the wrist. Fitted midriff with basque waist. The skirt is gathered and falls in fluid folds to the floor. There is a side metal zipper.
You will probably want to wear a slip since white tends to be somewhat sheer. Vintage jersey dresses were seldom lined because the lining interfered with the drape. Women always wore slips instead.

This lovely gown could easily pass as a wedding dress although it's original intent was probably as evening attire
The label is gone but it is very nicely made. It is rare to find these dresses in good condition particularly white. This one was lovingly stored and has endured the last 60+ years beautifully. It's been cleaned and is ready to be worn.
As with a lot of side zip dresses putting it on takes a bit of effort. It must go over the head, arms in the sleeves and eased down over the shoulders. It is a lot easier if you have someone to help.
The size is small with the following measurements.

Bust 35"
Waist 27"
Length from waist to hem 39"

Excellent Condition

Pretty Gingham dress from the late 1950s early 60s.

Sweetly styled black and white, Cotton/Arnel gingham dress with lots of little details. The silhouette sports a semi-fitted bodice, cinched waist and full pleated skirt. The neckline is wide and scooped and is defined with a black bias band.  There are decorative little black buttons down the from but is zips in back with a metal zipper. The sleeves are 3/4 length and they finish in a fluted ruffle (lined in black) and a tiny bow.  It has a full skirt  with wide inverted box pleats. I have it pictured with a crinoline beneath but this is not included in the sale. There are great modern petticoats available online which would work well with this dress.

This dress was never worn and still has it's original hangtags. it came to me without it's belt, so I photographed it with a wide, picot edged, grossgrain ribbon tied at the waist. I will include this but you can wear any belt you like and I'm thinking red would be a chic touch especially if you have red matching shoes!

The size is  Medium with the following measurements.

Bust 38"

Waist 27'

Length of skirt from waist to hem 25"

Excellent Condition

Charming little party dress from the 1950s. The fabric is a sheer navy blue nylon organdy with white flocked abstract design....cut is iconic 50s with fitted bodice, cinched waist and full skirt. It has a scoop neck and short sleeves both of which are trimmed in white braid-piping. The skirt is lined with navy taffeta and there is a center back, metal zipper at the area of the waist (does not extend to the neckline).

I photographed the dress with a full petticoat and a modern red belt (these are not included). Navy blue goes well with a surprising number of colors...try a belt in an unexpected shade... such as pink or Kelly green. If you match an accessory  or two (i.e. purse, necklace, shoes or earrings)  to the belt it will tie the look together. Of course you can always go with the classics like black patent leather or white.

The size is small with junior proportions. This means a smaller waist, bust and ribcage than clothing made for the older woman. It has the following measurements. It's also on the petite side with a slightly shorter waist than usual. If you are tall or long in the torso this would not be a good fit even if your basic measurements match.

Bust  36"

Waist 25"

Hips Free

Length from shoulder waist 15"

Length of skirt from waist to hem 28"

Excellent Condition

Never worn velour afternoon or dinner dress from the 1950s.

The fabric is a velvety soft velour with splashy rose print is amethyst and black. The bodice has a scoop neck with asymmetrical design lines and short sleeves. There is a self fabric flower detail with rhinestone center off to the left, you can see a close up of this in the detail pictures. The waist is belted with a self fabric belt and the skirt is fitted and straight. It closes on the side with a metal zipper. The entire dress is lined with purple taffeta to keep the fabric from clinging.
Besides being a lovely dinner dress, it would also be perfect for an afternoon wedding or a fancy tea. Black heels and a smart little bag would finish the outfit beautifully.

The dress is plus-size, around a modern 1X. It is not overly long so please take note of the skirt length. It has the following measurements.
Bust 47"
Waist 37"
Hips 48"
Length from waist to hem 26"

Mint Condition

Dare to wear Red!

The dare of red and the romance of lace are such a delicious combination don't you agree?  For that special occasion, when you want to stand out in the crowd consider this 1950s semi formal dress in red lace over taffeta. The bodice is sleeveless and fitted with a dropped waist. It has a wide wide scoop neckline and full skirt. One large silk rose accents the waist off to the left.

At first I could not find the makers label but it's nicely constructed and the quality is on par with Fred Perlberg or Suzy Perette. Upon a more thorough inpection I found the label and it was a nice surprise! The dress is a Jonny Herbert Original. A New York design company in the 1950s that made lovely better ready to wear special occasion dresses.

The condition is great with minimal signs of wear. It has two minor flaws to note.  After I photographed the dress I noticed a stain on the hemline. It is about an inch in diameter (see photo) I have looked at this dress many times but I did not notice this until I hung it from the top of a door and the stain was closer to eye level.  I will try to lighten it but I don't want to work on it too much for fear of fading the cotton lace. It does not detract from the look of the dress and it can be hidden easily enough by raising the hem a little. I will leave that up to you. There is also a faded round spot on the lining beneath the lace of the skirt. It is about two inches in diameter with a tiny tear. This is the underlining but the lace is thick enough so it does not show through.

The size is in the Med/Small range with the following measurements.

Bust 37"

Waist 27"

Hips 37"

Length from shoulder to hem 46"

Very Good Condition

The color of Romance! Rose Red Tulle gown...mid 1950s

No doubt about it... heads will turn and compliments will fly. Breathtaking strapless gown with red satin bodice and full tulle skirt. The bodice is heavily detailed with an all over design of cord applique and iridescent sequins. It has a prominent bust and nipped waist. Reams of red tulle create a wide dramatic skirt with a red taffeta underslip.

Condition issues: Not perfect but still beautiful. I seldom post items that are not at least close to excellent condition but with this dress I am making an exception. No, it is not perfect, but to me it's beauty out weighs it's flaws and I have priced it accordingly ( by less than half). While on the body the blemishes are hard to notice but let me describe them and you can decide if they are something you can live with.

-Under the arms there is some color fade and change (see picture).

- I also  found two rends in the tulle the larger one I will lightly mend so the tear does not get bigger but the smaller one blends in with the skirt and is best left alone (see picture for larger rend).

-The original side metal zipper has been replaced with a plastic one

-Finally the dress was once taken in through the back and then let out again. The stitching lines can be seen. I will try and steam them out but I took a before picture just in case it does not help. Again the dress looks beautiful on and if perfection is not your issue it is certainly wearable.

The size is small with the following measurements

Bust 34"

Waist 26"

Skirt length from waist to hem 36"

Sweet little black baby doll dress from the early 1960s.
Would make a lovely vintage cocktail or party dress. Sleeveless...scoop neck empire bodice with all over black sequins. Delicate piping and tiny bow beneath bust line. Black crepe, baby doll skirt is gently gathered at the top and tapers to a narrow hem. Nicely made with full taffeta lining and center back metal zipper. The label reads à la Mode. The size is small in the bust but the hips will accommodate a more medium size. Perfect for a body which is full in the hip but petite on top. It has the following measurements.

Bust 35"
Waist free
Hips up to 38"
Length from shoulder to hem 38"

Excellent Condition

 

Light and airy voille, maxi dress from the late 1960s by Teena Paige.

The cut is like a sundress with with a fitted sleeveless bodice and wide shoulder straps. it has a long maxi length gathered skirt and zips in back with a metal zipper. The fabric is a sheer voile, with fun Mod-Tulip print in bright happy colors. The dress is completely lined with white cotton batiste to prevent "see through" issues.

A perfect weekend dress, it can be worn day or night particullarly if you are going to be out doors. This one should be fun to accessorize. i'm seeing a wide brimmed floppy straw hat and chunky plastic bangles.

The size is on the smaller end, most noticeably in the bust area. It has the following measurements.

Bust 33"

Waist 25"

Length of skirt from waist to hem 40"

Excellent Condition

1970s Retro 'Silver Screen' gown in Cranberry satin.

Fashion has been "doing Vintage" off and on for years. In the 70s many designers borrowed from the 1940s. This is a perfect example! The surplice neckline plunges daringly low. There are deep shoulder pleats creating that broad shoulder look. It has dramatic sleeves with pouffed pleated caps and tapering to a narrow fit at the wrists. The skirt is gathered at the waist and flows to the floor. There must have been a belt at one time but it is gone now. It does not need one but you can certainly wear any coordinating dressy belt to cinch the waist. The only remaining label is the Union Label. The size in a Med/Lg It has the following measurements

Bust 40"

Waist 29"

Sleeve length 26"

Skirt length  47" from waist to hem
This is a good dress for a taller woman since the sleeves and hem leghth are so generous.

Excellent Condition

 

One of the more unique (and flattering) vintage Maxi dresses I've come across. Thin ribbon stripe print on silky polyester jersey. Colors are Azure blue, pumpkin, and lime on a white background. The dress is cut with a sleeveless drawstring neckline, sort of a modified halter. Empire waist with fixed ties and column skirt.

The size is small with some range, will fit the following measurements

Bust 34"-36"

Rib cage just beneath bust - 30"

Waist free up to 30"

Hips free up to 40"

Length of dress from shoulder to hem approx. 54" (was hemmed slightly by original owner

Excellent Condition

Exotic evening gown circa 1970s. The silhouette is elegant and simple...sleeveless fitted bodice with stand up collar and floor length column skirt (deep box pleats front and back)....however the simplicity ends there... 

Black double knit bodice with midriff definition, trimmed in metallic gold braid and burnished brass paillettes. The skirt is done in rich, contrasted fabric, combining the shimmer of gold threads and a swirling floral pattern borrowed from the Far East. Black velvet flocking outlines the imagery highlighting the gold and making the saturated fall colors glow. 

There is no makers label, just a union tag and no fabric content but I am certain the bodice is a polyester knit and the skirt, an acetate and lurex blend. The dress is a medium size with the following measurements.

Bust 38"

Waist 29"

Hips up to 40"

Skirt length from waist to hem just over 40"

Length from shoulder to waist 16"

Excellent Condition - no flaws

Beautiful velvet and chiffon gown circa 1970s.

Wear it lformal and ong or have it hemmed  knee for a pretty cocktail dress. There are so many lovely details in this dress I don't know where to begin. The front and back of the empire bodice are done in a golden safron chiffon over taffeta. The side panels of the bodice are velvet. It has a high neckline edged with dainty ruffles and sweet flower embroidered trim. The bodice panels are also edged with the same embroidered trim. There is a long plain, satin ribbon tied just under the bust. The sleeves are wonderful, they are done in the same chiffon with tiny set in accordian pleats. Just lovely. They end in a velvet band with embroidered trim then pleated ruffle cuff. The long straight skirt is a deep golden velvet, fitted at the waist. The only lable left in the dress is a dry clean lable. I do not know the maker. The size is Med/small with the following measurements.
Bust 36"
Waist 28"
Hips 37"
The dress was only worn once and is...

Excellent Condition
 

Pretty "milk maid" style dress by Gunne Sax circa 1970s.
Nobody made retro romantic dresses like Gunne Sax. Jessica McClintock purchased the company in 1969. Her dresses were all about romance and fantasy. The designs borrowed from Early American, Victorian and Renaissance styles. Some were simple others quite fancy. They were worn to school dances, as prom dresses and even as alternative bridal gowns. Many girls just wore them for everyday.
This Gunne sax is done in calico cotton with a black background and dainty floral print. A clever combination of renaissance and prairie chic, it features a very fitted bodice with peplum, V neck and lace up decollete. In back it ties at the waist with long narrow sashes. The sleeves are slim and long with a slightly puffed cap. The outline of the bodice is defined with ecru lace and a coordinating fabric band. Attached at the waist is a long gathered skirt with lace trimmed ruffled hem.
The size is an Extra-Small.

Bust 33"
Waist 25"
Hips up to 37"
Length from shoulder to hem 58"

Excellent Condition

Stunning 1970s vintage Hawaiian print maxi dress or gown by Malihini Hawaii.
Self belted Empire waist....sleeveless bodice with square neckline. Center front inverted pleat in long narrow skirt.
The print is exceptionally beautiful. Oversized hibiscus blossoms in luminous shades of oranges, yellows and browns. The fabric is cotton "bark cloth". As a full length dress it is quite dramatic and would make a bold statement. Not so brave? The dress could easily be shortened for more versatility. Use the extra fabric to make a matching bag!
The size is Medium.

Bust 36'
Rib Cage below bust 31'
Hips and waist free size...

Excellent Condition

Sexy 1970s halter gown

Silver screen chic - by Lillie Rubin. The Lillie Rubin label has been creating glamorous attire since 1948. This 70s era gown has a plunging halter neckline with low open back and slinky straight skirt. A thigh high vent opens on the left side of the skirt. It is covered with flat black sequins giving it a sleek almost wet look. A very sexy dress.

The sequins are sewn onto a matte jersey material with jersey lining the top. There is a center back plastic zipper and hook and eye closures at the back of the neck. I found a few sequins missing and replaced them with extras from the underhem. It is now in beautiful condition.

The size is med/small with the following measurements.

Bust 36" plus
Waist up to 26"
Hips up to 38"
Length from shoulder to hem 57"

Excellent Condition

Medieval Fantasy!
Medieval inspired gown from the 1970s.
The dress is all one piece but made to look like two. It has the appearance of a brocade underdress with gold trimmed, velvet over bodice.
The brocade in this dress is just beautiful. It is a combination of midnight blue and pale metallic silver AND gold threads , woven in a complex medallion pattern. The top of the dress has a midnight blue velvet bodice with gold braid trim, an attached collar and full bishop sleeves done in brocade. The long skirt gathers at the waist and falls to the floor. There is no label but it is beautifully cut and constructed so I am guessing it was a custom creation. The size is med/ small.  It has the following measurements.

Bust 36"
Waist 26"
Hips 35"

Excellent Condition

 

1970s disco era floral print synthetic jersey dress.

Flattering and comfortable this vintage dress has an all-in-one  two piece look. The top is loosely fitted with panel, extended shoulder line. It has an elastisized waist and pretty gathered peplum. The skirt is straigth with the slightest flair, not quite an A-line. The material is a silky jersey much like a qiana in jewel toned teal (more saturated than my pictures). It has an engineered floral print which borders the edge of the skirt and peplum. The whispy  flowers are done in rich shades of purple, lavender and cinnamon. The high neckline has a ruffled edge and slash front opening with string ties. It can be worn open as in the photo or tied closed. It still has the self fabric cord belt (pictured), but a wide cinch belt would also look very nice.

A versitile garment it can be dressed up or down depending on your accessories. It is so easy to care for, just wash on gentle and hang to dry. No ironing, yeah! This fabric can have a tendency to cling so a half slip might not be a bad idea. or you get Static Guard spray.

A little tip: Static does not build up around moisture so you should NEVER put synthetic jersey in the dryer for this very reason. Also a quick misting of water under the skirt does a good temporary job of preventing cling.

The size is medium with a flexible waist it has the following measurements.

Bust up to 37"

Waist the best range would br 27"-31"

Skirt length from waist to hem 24"

Excellent condition

Sweet n' oh so feminine!
Ruffle tiered gown in antique print,  flowered voile circa 1970's. This dress is composed of three ruffled tiers with a separate flounce over the empire bodice. Each layer is trimmed with black ribbon and lace. The sheer voile has a black background with multi floral print. It is sleeveless and has fabric ties at the shoulder. The dress has a full attached underslip in black.

Romantic, in the spirit of the Gunne Sax dresses, the label inside reads On The Rocks a Div. of Rock Candy inc. California.

Excellent Condition

A rare style Gunne Sax dress from the late 70s.
Most Gunne Sax from the 70s and 80s borrowed from "Prairie", Victorian or Renaissance fashions but other nostalgic styes were used for inspiration as well.
This darling dress is very similar to the frocks young or adolescent girls wore during Edwardian times. White cotton batiste with dropped waist and gathered skirt... Pleat tucked bodice has oversized ribbon and lace trimmed collar...elbow length, full sleeves, heavily adorned with cotton lace
Never worn, it still has the original Gunne Sax hang tab (pictured above). It is in excellent condition but since it has been hanging in storage for almost thirty years you may want to clean it before wearing. Dry cleaning or gentle hand washing and hang drying is recommended.
Med in size it has the following measurements.

Bust up to 37"
Waistfree
Hips up to 37"

Excellent Condition

 

Elegant, early 1950s (possibly the later 40s) black rayon dress.

A classic vintage dress suited for many occasions! Depending on how you accessoprize it can go from day into evening.
The lines are flattering and simple. The bodice is semi-fitted with an extended shoulder which end in rolled cuffs for a short sleeve look. It has a V neckline with wide collar and padded shoulders. The collar has a large stylized bow detail in front done in black satin. It buttons down the front with covered buttons. The skirt is straight but not narrow with two front pleats and diagonal pockets. It once had a belt but no more. You do not need one but any black belt will do. Or try a matching colored belt and shoes for a bit more style. The size is a medium with the following measurements.

Bust 39"
Waist 29"
Hips 38"


Excellent Condition

Stunning pure silk Chinese brocade coat and dress ensemble circa 1960s. The brocade fabric is truly to die for... rich slipper satin, with a champagne background and feathery chrysanthemums in shades of saffron, copper and dark plum. The dress is cut with a fitted torso and dropped basque waist with straight pleated skirt. It has short cap sleeves and a deep V back. The coat is loose with a fly away back, elbow length puff sleeves and tailored collar. Long evening gloves would just add to the elegance....There is one label which reads Charlotte Hong Kong.

Made to order, the construction of these garments rivals that of haute couture. The linings are all silk and hand set. The metal zipper is hand picked and of course the button holes are cloth bound. Little details like the inside, ribbon stayed waist and crocheted lingerie straps keep the dress looking neat while dainty piped edges and covered buttons add interest.

This set came from the home of a woman who wore numbered Dior and Hermès scarves. Everything she owned was impeccable, I just wish I could have afforded more!

The size is Medium with the following measurements.

Dress

Bust - 39"

Waist - 32"

Hips - 39"

Length from shoulder to hem 43 1/2"

Coat - Free size

Very Good to Excellent condition - Clean and odor free. The outside of each garment is in beautiful condition. The only flaw I could find are a couple pin pricks (not holes just pricks) on the shoulder of the dress where the original owner wore a brooch. They are VERY faint.

Inside- There are a couple of minor lining issues. One small greenish spot in the coat lining (pictured) and some makeup staining inside the lining of the dress (also pictured) I also discovered that the lining under each arm had a small 1/2" tear and slight discoloration. This is not unexpected since the dress lining is a thin habotai silk. None of these flaws can be seen while the garments are on.

Stunning ball length gown from the very early 1970s.

This amazing vintage dress is fashioned from a lovely organza sari cloth in deep coral pink with metallic gold design.  The gold  paisley border of the cloth  was used to define the midriff and neckline... also as a center design focus on the skirt.

The dress is long and elegant with a sleeveless fitted bodice, modified nehru collar and open vented neckline. The slightly flared column skirt falls to the floor from a fitted empire waist line. Beautifully tailored... the bodice is double lined for stability and the slip-lining under the skirt is a soft and comfortable cotton batiste.

The label inside reads Dorothy Bullitt Ardmore Chestnut Hill. It is a smallish medium size with the following measurements

Bust  36"

Waist 28"

Hip 40"

Length from shoulder to hem

Excellent Condition... no flaws inside or out

Late 1930s - early 1940s black rayon crepe faille dress with floral sequined appliques.
This lovely vintage dress has padded shoulders with full caps.. ... a semi fitted bodice with 3/4 sleeves and keyhole detail at neckline. There is also a pretty celluloid and rhinestone button above the keyhole opening. The skirt falls straight and has a draped swag panel which gathers on the left hip beneath a crescent shaped faux pocket. The shoulder, hem and pocket are all embellished with floral appliques that are highlighted with colored sequins. The dress zips at the side and closes at the nape of the neck with a row of covered buttons.

A lovely dress suitable for a number of dressy occasions.

The size is Med/Small with a boyish cut. The waist is somewhat long so I would say the best body for this dress would be willowy with narrow hips. It will accommodate an average bust size. Please note measurements.


Bust 36"
Waist 28"
Hips 35"
Length of skirt from waist to hem 29"


Excellent Condition

Mourning dress from the later teens, WW1 era. Post Edwardian.
A bit of history.
The events which took place in Europe during the time of the first World War profoundly effected the world of Western Fashion. The 4 year war took the lives of over 27 million, mostly Europeans and the infamous flu epidemic killed many millions the world over. Europe was at war for three years before the United States joined the Allies in April, 1917. From 1914 until the end of the war in 1918 beautiful Paris, the "Seat" of Fashion was a somber and serious place. It became a city filled with young widows and grieving families. Early on the women of the day threw themselves into the war effort. They worked in factories and hospitals and the confining nature of the clothing from the "Belle Epoque" were no longer acceptable. Corsets, crinolines and hoop skirts gave way to loosely fit dresses with shorter skirts and comfortable higher waistlines. Flounces and full skirts were impractical so the dress became narrow with minimal embellishment. Of course the predominant color worn was black, the color of mourning. Although the U.S. was not fighting during most of the war the Fashions here were changing according to the dictates of the Parisian designers who were creating garments for the circumstances of their land.

The dress.
This somber but sweet little WW1 dress is done in black silk taffeta with black chiffon accents. With such fine fabric and fancy details it would have been considered a dressy garment. The bodice is deeply V'd in the back and front with sequined and beaded insets. Decorative panels drape front to back and are beaded on the edges. The waist wraps with a pleated band. The sleeves are flowing black chiffon ending above the wrist. The straight skirt is just slightly belled and has pleated panels adorning the sides. An attached short "apron" in front has beaded details at the corners. The back of the dress has black chiffon streamers on both sides which fall from the waist to hem. This dress closes at the waist with a complex series of snaps. There is no label, most likely it was done by the dressmaker to the family. All of the work is beautiful from the hand beading to the hand finished seams.
Small/Extra Small in size. You will want to pad your measurements because these dresses chould be worn loosly so as not to strain the delicate fabric. The measurements are as follows.

Bust 35",
Waist 29",
Shoulders (a bit narrow) 15 1/2" 
Length of the skirt is 33".
It is very rare to find a garment from this time that was not utilized. However this dress was never used, the fabric is still strong and it can be carefully worn.

Excellent Condition

1950s Dinner, Dance or Party dress

 Lustrous acetate crepe in a warm taupe. Empire style dress with gathered surplice bodice and soft shoulder. Wide dolman sleeves. Princess fitted waist and full skirt. Empire seam is defined by a self fabric inset that finishes in back with a smart bow. Skirt fullness is enhanced with a deep, center-back inverted pleat. The skirt is underlined with taffeta to give it body and it has a side metal zipper.

The plunging neckline dispels any hint of prim, in this ladylike yet sophisticated design. A very versatile special occasion dress that can cross seasons. The neutral tone is a perfect canvas for numerous accessory choices. Just about any color you can think of will work. I'm a brooch fan and would probably pick something huge and sparkly but a necklace would be beautiful as well. I have it pictured with a semi full petticoat underneath which gave it just the right amount of fullness. The petticoat is not included but there are lots of online sources for both new and vintage petticoats. (just key word petticoat or crinoline).

The dress is a medium size and will work well on someone with height and can accommodate a very full bustline It has the following measurements.

Bust up to 40"

Waist 28"

Empire seam right under bust 30"

Hips Free

Length from shoulder to hem 48"

Excellent Condition

 Cocktails in the garden....

 The finest cotton sateen and matching print voile went into the making of this lovely Christan Dior dress.  The cut is so  elegant....sleeveless sheath silhouette with draped panel accent and shirred "empire" bodice. The print is a bouquet of stylized florals in  shades of blue, green and aqua with highlights of lemon yellow. The body of the dress is silky cotton sateen...the drape and shirred bodice are done in sheer, matching print, voile. The date is difficult to pin point because it's such a classic style but with the help of my colleagues at the Vintage Fashion Guild we determined it was mid 1960s.

Ready to wear never got any better than Christian Dior New York, it was the closest you could come to couture. The prices were high and so was the quality. This dress is completely underlined in soft cotton batiste, all of the facings are hand finished and the zipper is invisibly hand stiched INSIDE to remain in place without any signs of stiching on the outside (speaking as a dressmaker this is really cool!) the hem is quite generous.

I don't know what else to say...it's just gorgeous!

Small size, the dress is designed to skim the body not cling tightly so the bust measurement is smaller in proportion than a more fitted dress would be.

Bust - JUST makes 35"

Waist - 30"

Hips - 38"

Length from shoulder to hem -  39"

Mint Condition inside and out, this dress looks like it was never worn

 Simply stunning three piece set with layers upon layers of luscious tie dyed panne velvet.  The velvet is hand dyed in shades of dark plum, purple and midnight blue with highlights of mango and tan. The set consists of a bias cut, cowl neck halter top and four gore skirt with a draped cocoon over jacket. The jacket has deep batwing sleeves and a long, self fabric scarf that is attached at the neck. It can be tied but I photographed it hanging loose. The pieces are un-lined and drape beautifully. The skirt has an elasticized waist and the back of the halter top is elasticized as well. There is no belt and none is needed but you can certainly wear one with it. I did take one photo with a belt (belt not included).

Worn all together, as a set, it's definitely a special occasion outfit but each piece is lovely on it's own as well.  The possibilities are many for mixing and matching mix with the rest of your wardrobe.  I'm not 100% sure of the era on this one. it has elements of the 70s and 80s and the maker, Whispers of San Francisco is one I am not familiar with. With the help of my friends at the Vintage Fashion Guild, we decided it is probably from the 80s. One of my colleagues thought it had a Stevie Knicks vibe while another compared it to Norma Kamali. Sometimes it's hard to tell era with artisan labels. Their work tends to focus more on creative textiles and silhouettes and less on mainstream fashion trends.

Besides the makers label, there is another that was put in by the shop it was purchased from. This one reads Tommy DeMaio Boutiquier, The Sheraton Center NYC. I was able to look up Tommy DeMaio and discovered he has been in business since the mid 70s. The company is now a salon and boutique, still located in New York City but not the same location.

The size is marked medium and it has the following measurements.

Skirt

Waist - is elasticized and with fit a range from 27" -32" comfortably

Hips - 40"

Length - 33"

Top

Bust - is elasticized in back and will fit a range from 36" to 40"

Waist -is bias cut, with give, so it will fit the same range as the skirt (see above)

Length from under arm to hem of top 16"

Jacket

Free size, will fit the same range of measurements as the other pieces. It is 32" long in back and the sleeves measure 26" from the neck to the edge of the cuff. Note : I am measuring the sleeves from the neck NOT the shoulder.

Excellent Condition no flaws to be found,