Stunning 1950s Christian Dior New York Dinner Dress
This beautiful and early example of Christian Diors work is quite extraordinary. This is the New York label so is what I consider to be demi-couture from this time period of Dior's history. These where made in, and for, the American market but were based on the runway designs and with many of the same high standard finishes that the true Haute Couture pieces incorporated. When held off the hanger it actually has some weight to it, not because the fabric is thick or bulky but because there is so much of it worked through the skirt. Once on it feels perfectly balanced but it is astonishing how much fabric there is. This is due to the clever design. Inside the skirt is a shorter inner silk lining and over this are two panels of fabric that wrap and overlap each other ending at each opposite hip. Each has a gathering of flat pleats mainly where it ends at the hip and the amount of fabric within the pleats is deceptive from how it lies when on. Under each hip is a bit of tulle to help gently curve the hip and create that desired hourglass. The bodice is equally remarkable and it buttons into place and has a high point design element on one shoulder. Little notched cuffs pick up this angular design and a saucy pocket sits on one hip. Big bow adorned silver toned buttons are the perfect finish. Excellent, museum quality condition.
Lined through the skirt and the bodice and sleeves are unlined. It closes with a side zipper. The panel on the bodice buttons and snaps into place. Some elements of tulle through the panels of the skirt to add slight volume where intended. Note that the buttons show patina where the top layer of silver coating has degraded. Since the dress appears virtually unworn I feel this is from the passing of time and not from wear. Please see the close up of the label to see what I mean. Easily replace or re-coated but left as is as they are original to the dress.
Sleeves: approx 19"
Shoulders: no true defined seams
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 32" from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD2086
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
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SIZE GUIDE
Please review all measurements carefully. More often than not, vintage garments do not fit any size category exactly. If in doubt, measure a garment of your own that fits and is a similar cut and compare it's measurements to the listed measurements below.
