Andre Courreges introduced his Hyperbole label in 1970 as a ready to wear line. The contrasting white with the vivid orange is a predominant theme and gave the pieces a more sporty look. The unusual colour choice combined with his signature cuts make them instantly recognizable as being his work. Similar examples are held in museums worldwide and I am always pleased to have his original work in the shop. 

This is a really great coat that has some weight to it making it warm and cozy to wear. It is belted for a slight touch of definition through the waist and the big flap pockets with those white buttons at the front act as both a design feature and give it a sense of sporty utility. Big round white buttons do up the front and at the back there is a row of them that run down the middle of the back. These are all functional buttons which is remarkable and shows you the level of quality in RTW back then. It is cut to skim over the body and be more fitted through the top and then the bottom portion is cut on a bit of a flare to the hem. The neckline is structured and set high with a collar that is set back to the sides and curls over. Epaulets sit on the top of shoulder with more button detailing. The seams are topstitched in a thread that is the same colour as the wool. Inside, the coat is finished with a quilted padding that keeps you warm. Courreges once commented when asked about how his fit and cuts came about, saying that it 'was somewhere between a youthful and optimistic inventiveness, and a concept of fashion embracing the platonic ideal of perfect form. What was needed was to apply new technical and aesthetic rules and to create a modern style that was easy to wear.'  Excellent overall condition with notes to review below

The jacket buttons to close at the front and it has its original belt that buttons into place. More buttons run down the back vent and are set at each cuff. The pockets button to close as seen. It is tagged a Courreges size 00. There are a few grazes out of the wool near the hem and on the lower portion of the coat. All are stable and do not go fully through and did not worsen after being dry cleaned. A minor mark to the interior lining. Please see all the photos after the label shot. It presents as excellent. 

Sleeves: 23"
Slightly inset shoulders: 13.5"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 45" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# C559

Reference Photo: Courreges (left) and Miss Dior (right) coats, L'officiel magazine, 1971.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

Andre Courreges introduced his Hyperbole label in 1970 as a ready to wear line. The contrasting white with the vivid orange is a predominant theme and gave the pieces a more sporty look. The unusual colour choice combined with his signature cuts make them instantly recognizable as being his work. Finding a jumpsuit complete with its matching jacket is very rare and it is a fabulous set. His work is held in museums worldwide and I am always pleased to have his original work in the shop.

This is an amazing set that is made out of a wool that has a soft, almost fuzzy, feel to it. Andre was known for his unusual fabric choices and this would have been cutting edge at the time. The jumpsuit is cut to skim over the body and hips and then the legs are straight with a slight flare to them as they reach the hem. Depending on your height they will sit as a bit of a crop. Big round painted white snaps do up the front above a zipper. There is a double set of flap pockets stacked on top of each other. One set is at the waist and the other at the top of the hip. The jacket is cut in his classic cropped silhouettes. Big flap pockets sit on each side at the front and it closes with a huge chunky white zipper. This one has a belt that goes through big belt loops around the bottom of the jacket and then it closes in the front with a painted metal buckle. I love how once it is on it sits just above that lower flaps on the jumpsuit. White snaps close each cuff and perfectly tie into the snaps on the jumpsuit. It is an incredible piece and is even better on an actual person. This is a very rare example of his work. Presents as overall excellent condition with notes to review below

The jacket zippers to close at the front and it has its original belt that buckles into place. The jumpsuit closes at the front with snaps and a zipper under those. It is tagged a Courreges size B. The flap pockets are all decorative. The fabric shows minor pilling overall and this is a natural part of the aging of this type of fabric. There is a darkened mark on the inside of one leg and a couple of minor spots on the sleeves. Some yellowing to the inner lining of the pants at the inner seam. Minor paint loss to the zipper/snaps and buckle. Please see all the photos after the label shot. 

Jacket
Sleeves: 23.5"
Slightly inset shoulders: 13.5"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 19" from neck to hem

Jumpsuit
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 55.5" from shoulder to hem
Inseam: 28" from hem up

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3610

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

Andre Courreges made these amazing faux leather coats out of a coated vinyl starting around 1963 and into the early 1970s. The vinyl give it a more sporty look and was also considered to be a cutting edge fabric during this time period. It also features his logo prominently on the front which was also rather daring for this era. He was one the first designers to do this. The twin of this coat along with many versions and variations of it are held in museums world-wide. 

This can be worn as either a coat or a dress with something underneath. It is belted for definition through the waist and the big pockets at the front act as both a design feature and give it a sense of sporty utility. The front closes with a row of his signature white painted snaps and at the back there is a row hidden under the vent that allows you to close it for a more dress feel. You can also unsnap them and leave them open so that the bottom portion of the coat has more volume. It is cut to skim over the body and be more fitted through the top. Courreges once commented when asked about how his fit and cuts came about, saying that it 'was somewhere between a youthful and optimistic inventiveness, and a concept of fashion embracing the platonic ideal of perfect form. What was needed was to apply new technical and aesthetic rules and to create a modern style that was easy to wear.' This longer coat style is harder to find and more rare then its cropped counterparts and this one is in one of the best and most coveted of the colours; the brilliant orange. These are now skyrocketing in price and I have seen them more than double this one's price. This in is a size vintage Courreges size C which is a harder to find size too. Excellent overall condition with notes to review below

The jacket snaps to close at the front and it has its original belt that also snaps into place. More snaps close the back vent and each cuff. The pockets zipper as seen. Inside, the lining can be fully removed and snaps into place. It is tagged a Courreges size C. There is wear to the vinyl exterior at all the movement points and the logo on these always goes to a cream as they age. Minor wear to the paint on a couple of the snaps and grubbiness here and there. Inside the lining there is a some small missing piece near one snap and off of the body the lining hangs past the hem. Another common thing you see with these. The exterior flaws are normal wear and patina for this fabric and it presents as excellent. The interior issues are minor and the fabric is strong and stable. Please see all the photos after the label shot. 

Sleeves: 22.5"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 41.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# C558

Reference Photos: (1) Model in Courreges, L'Officiel c.1970s.  /  (2) 1963-69 Courreges Coat from The Met Collection.  /  (3) Courreges Coat from the Istanbul Fashion Museum Adnan Ege Kutay Collection.  /  (4-5) Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

Tina Leser opened her first shop in 1935 and became known for her use of fabrics curved from far off locations. By 1944 she had been awarded the Coty award. In 1948 she took a trip around the world and the places that she went influenced all of her future collections. She loved to take a fabric that was seen as being for casual wear for this time period and using it for evening wear or vice versa. The Tina Leser Originals label launched in 1953, closed in 1964 and then re-opened in 1966.. This is one of the best pieces I have seen from her and is truly a spectacular example of her work. 

More then anything I love the extreme sleeves on this dress. The are truly spectacular. Each sleeve falls to past the knee. It is shaped like a normal sleeve from the shoulder to the elbow and then extends down from there into those long slit panels that you see. These give the dress a wonderfully exotic feel and they create tremendous movement when you move. They are also lined in a soft pale blue to offer contrast against the exterior fabric. The fabric that the dress is made of is equally stunning. It is actually a beautiful light silk voile that is entirely covered in the print that you see. The pattern is fantastic. The intricate design covers ever square inch and you can see how it incorporates that same blue that lines the inside of the sleeves. The front has a high neckline that is detailed with a collar of hand cut out flowers in two sizes. These are then hand placed around the neckline so they form a wonderful 3D effect. The dress falls from there in a generous cut that is meant to just skim over the curves with just a suggestion of shape at the waist. It widens out gently as it nears the hem and there is a high slit set off side at the front for a bit of leg to flash when you walk or sit. It is gorgeous. It appears to have never been worn or worn very little. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in an orange silk through the body with a wide band of blue silk around the inner edges. The lower part of the sleeves are lined in a soft blue silk voile. It closes at the back with a painted metal zipper. In person the dress has a slightly paler, softer feel to the overall colour. It is even better in real life. 

Sleeves: 42"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 59.5" from neck to hem
Slit: 31" up from hem 

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3575

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

The twin of this dress was shown on the Resort runway for 2008 and was Look 56. In Vogues review of the collection, journalist Nicole Phelps said in part; 'The grand theater-in-the-round setting for Oscar de la Renta's resort show put some audience members in mind of Chanel's recent presentations, but if there was a designer's influence at play in this beautiful collection, other than de la Renta's own, it could have been Yves Saint Laurent's. Loulou de la Falaise, YSL's longtime muse-turned-fellow designer, was sitting front-and-center (coincidentally, as it happened), and up on the raised platform there were seventies references' she went on to mention this dress in particular saying; 'And as for those evening gowns, a pair of printed chiné taffeta dresses (one in marigold, another in coral) may have had the front-row lovelies—Renée Rockefeller, Aerin Lauder Zinterhofer—reconsidering their outfits for tonight's CFDA Awards, where, of course, de la Renta is nominated for Womenswear Designer of the Year.'

The dress dies have a nod to the work of YSL who did several dress in the 1970s in this same silhouette that is caught up at the bust and then widen out as it nears the floor with a longer back then front. This silhouette is marvellously falter on and easy to wear. It also creates the most beautiful lines as you walk away and the skirt and back pillow out and trail behind you. It is made out of a bright coral silk hat has a slight iridescent quality to the finish. The very upper bodice is fitted and wide starts curve up and around each shoulder. Under that it is all volume and drama. The dress has a ton of volume to it that shows best when you move. It has three sets of ruffled tiers that fall softly to the floor. The lightness of the silk causes the on the skirt to billow out and move with the slightest bit of air. When this is on and you are walking the effect that this creates is absolutely gorgeous. The back of the skier is longer then the front and I took some shots of it from the side so you can see how it curves down and back. The runway references also show this beautifully. I love how each there is defined by that gathered ruffle and the entire bottom hem is a wider version of the same. This extra little detail is fabulous and adds an extra element of romance and femininity. This is Oscar at his best and a tremendously beautiful dress. The dress was never worn and still has its original tags. Excellent condition. 

Fully lined in a matching coral silk.  It closes with a hidden set side zipper. Tagged a size 6. All original tags and unworn. The colour is slightly less vivid in person and even better.

Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Seam under the bust: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Natural waist - hips: open
Length: 52" from top of shoulder to shortest point of the front hem, 62" to the longest point at the back

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3563

Reference Photos: Emina Cunmulaj for the Resort 2008, Look 56, Oscar de la Renta Runway Collection.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This stunning and rare gown was designed by Bob Mackie. Mackie shot to fame with the work he did dressing Cher. The best of his work is dramatic and opulent and he was a master at print and color. He worked for both Edith Head and Jean Louis, where he drew Marilyn Monroe's famous 'Happy Birthday, Mr. President' dress, prior to working as a costume designer and co-designing with fellow costume designer Ray Aghayan who would become his life partner. That led to his incredible journey in designing for stars like Cher and Diana Ross for many years. In many ways it was his work and his creations that really defined their careers and helped to shape that entire idea of high glamour on the small screen. How work is incredible and this dress is one of the favourites I have had in the shop and shows his range as a designer beyond his signature beaded pieces.

This is an extraordinary Bob Mackie dress that is made in a vivid coral silk chiffon. Onto the silk are huge pink and soft orange closers set among bright green leaves. This colour combination is stunning to see. The bodice is made into a corset that is hidden under the extensive draping of the silk the covers it. Inside it is fully formed and shaped for full support. The fabric at the front crosses over itself to highlight the shape of the bust and the top of the bodice is set in a  high peak. This visually cuts on the waist and adds length. The skirt flows out from under the waist and it is made up of yards and yards of silk set in individual panels priced together. This allows the silk to really move and the movement it creates as you move is just incredible. It is cut on a curve so the layers at the front are shorter which allows some leg to show when you walk. The skirt is made up of thee full layers of silk and under that top printed layer are two more layers of a solid coral silk chiffon. All the silk is cut on the bias. The dress comes with its original matching cape piece. This buttons at the neck and then flows down and around you. It is cut on that same curves line that angles down and back around you. The colour is a bright tropical feeling print and it is truly one of the best dresses of his that I have seen. Excellent condition with one small note below

The bodice of the dress is fully lined in a red silk. The skirt has two inner layers of coral silk that follow the line of the outer layer. The bodice is shaped and and fully boned inside and has an inner waist stay that hooks to close. It then closes with a back painted metal zipper. Hand finished throughout and hand rolled edges. There are some repairs to the edge of the hem of the cape and one small one near the hem of the dress

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 12" from top of the high peaked bodice to bottom of inner waist
Skirt: 45" from waist to longest part of hem
Cape: approx 60"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3384

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

Bill Blass launched his label in 1970 when he bought out the Maurice Rentner label and re-launched it under his own name. The twin of this dress was photoed a year later for the September issue of Vogue on Donna Mitchell and I think that this photo has become one of the most famous shots of her and one of the best shots done for Vogue period. To have this in the shop is a bit of a holy grail for me personally as it is such a beautiful dress that I  have always loved. Blass was arguably one of the most famous of  the American designers. His forte was the ability to mix simple styles with luxurious materials and his evening wear in particular seemed to have a way of flattering the wearer. Even when the dress was as extravagant as this one is. He knew how to walk that line perfectly. This very early piece of his work and with its glamorous fabric, history and that dramatic feather collar, it is some of his very best work ever. 

The dress is stunning and besides the actual beauty of it as a dress, the fabric is one of the best textiles I have ever seen. It is a printed silk voile in a riotous colour palette of yellow, coral and black with dots of an extra soft plush chenille fused onto the surface. The chenille appliqué covers the entire dress from shoulder to hem and gives it the most amazing tactile feel. The dots also give the dress texture and a three dimensional quality. To offset the texture and extravagance of the print on that fabric, the actual lines of the dress are fairy simple The bodice skims over the bust to the seamed waist and the sleeves are long and straight with zippers at each cuff. The neckline is high and scooped. The skirt falls from the waist to the floor in a gentle widening line. At the neck it becomes all drama again. Here we see that famous feathered collar in all its glory. the collar is actually a separate piece on its own that hooks into place and I have provided photos of the dress with and without the collar. The feathers on the collar have been hand dyed to match the colours of the dress and there are hand dyed smaller feathers hand placed and attached onto the larger feathers to create the pattern that you see. The effect is amazing and it is even better on person and on an actual body as all the elements really come to life. It is really one of the most significant and dramatic pieces ever done by him. A true collectors piece. Excellent condition 

The entire dress including the sleeves is fully lined in a nude coloured silk. It closed with a back painted metal zipper and each cuff has a zipper to close. The collar is backed with a silk organza and hooks to close. There are a few tiny areas of thinning to the silk behind the feathers of the collar but these are extremely minor. Overall it appears to have been worn very little if at all. 

Sleeves: 23.5"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem with 3.5" turned under the hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3562

Reference Photo: Donna Mitchell in Bill Blass, Shot by Richard Avedon, Vogue US, September 1971.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

In the 1960s if you wanted to wear something with a dramatic flare then you chose the work of Ronald Amey. He was known for his original use of fabrics and colors and his dresses were priced into the thousands even in the 1960s. His career was very short-lived. From 1959-1969 he designed under the label Burke-Amey. Joseph Burke, his partner, took care of the business side of things. In 1970s he bought out Burke and renamed the company Ronald Amey where he continued to produce his dramatic clothing until the label shuttered in 1976. His clothing was of very high quality and he incorporated many couture level details into their construction. All of his pieces were sewn in-house at his New York atelier

One of his signatures was to combine bold colors, prints and fabrics in interesting, unusual ways and this dress is a splendid example of that. The colors are bold and the mix is dramatic. The bodice and sleeves are sheer orange printed silk chiffon that is layered over the same printed coral ribbon silk that you see used for the skirt. This gives the top a very couture and quirky feel. The neckline is cut wide across the collarbones and it is anchored by a wide band of blue silk satin that is top-stitched in gold thread. This curves around the neckline and then down the front on either side of the notched front. The panel continues past the seamed waist and runs down the center of the skirt where it ends with a large diamond of the same fabric in brown. More of the blue runs around the hem and then is used again for the cuffs on each sleeve. The combination of the orange, coral and blue is spectacular . The heavy dose of all those prints, colors and patterns should not work but it does. The perfect finish is the wide fabric belt made of the same blue as the banding and this wraps around the waist where you can cinch it in and leave it simple as I did or tie it in a far more elaborate way. The exterior is in excellent condition with a note about the lining to review below.

Fully lined in a bright peach silk throughout. Entirely hand finished. It closes with a front zipper and there are zippers on each cuff. The zippers stick a bit when you open and close them. There is shattering of the silk around each arm on the interior. The exterior fabrics are sound and show no wear at all. The exterior of the dress appears to have been worm very little. The dress is even better in person.

Sleeves: 22"
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15.5" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 40.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3478

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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This is perhaps one of the best Emilio Pucci bag and scarf combinations that I have had. Both pieces are done in one of his brilliant signature prints in shades of a pink - coral and other bright colors. This covers both the exterior of the bag and is what the matching silk twill scarf is made out of. It is instantly recognizable as being Emilio Pucci and perhaps one of the most coveted color combinations and prints. The bag is covered in the silk and closes with a gold frame and clasp. The double set of handles are made from linked gold chains. More gold is picked up on the bottom with the little notched gold feet. The base is a fresh white that allows the colors to pop. The scarf is large and has hand rolled edges. The sleek and simple lines of both pieces still feel modern and fresh. Excellent condition

The bag is fully lined in a soft white leather and closes with a gold clasp at the top. An interior open pocket and two slip pockets on each side between the center part of the bag and the exterior. The scarf has hand rolled edges. The scarf appears to have never been used and the bag shows normal, minor wear to the silk inherent to its age.

Bag
9" W x 6.5" H x 2" D - the handle adds 7" to the height

Scarf
35" x 35"

Item# B150

In clean, as found condition. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

When hunting for the date of this dress I found a strikingly similar dress from the runway that had additional shoulder detailing but is otherwise remarkably like this one. It gives you a great idea of how amazing this one will be once on an actual body. 

The fabric and color are fantastic. It is a metallic silk that blends a vivid coral with gold lame thread and if you love it the photos you will love it even more in real life. This fabric catches the light and intensifies the coral color. The fabric itself is quite light in weight so despite the elaborate construction of the dress is not heavy to wear. Inside the dress is quite structured for support which means that despite the lightness of the actual fabric the intended shape is held in place. The bodice is cut with a strapless, modified sweetheart neckline and hugs the body. It is elaborately gathered and fitted around the bust with hand placed and gathered folds. This was an Ungaro signature and really made his pieces flattering once on. On this one the gathers and shape run from the bust right down and over the hips so your shape is very emphasized. Under that the skirt is set with panels of fabric, each individual set on an angle to achieve that explosion of volume that you see. This technique also allows each piece to move freely so that whenever you move it does as well. A little box at the back is the perfect sweet detail. It is incredible. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a coral silk and closes with a back zipper and the bow snaps into place over the top of that. The bodice is boned. Tagged a vintage Ungaro 6 It appears to have never been worn, or worn very little.

Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 29" from top of bodice to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3417

Reference Photo: F/W 1988-89 Emanuel Ungaro Runway Collection.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

The Swash Buckler top is from the Fall 2017 Rosie Assoulin collection. On the runway this same print was shown on the finale gown. These tops were a hallmark of the collection and their high drama is an easy way for a modern girl to step out in the evening and be able to pair it with pants or a skirt and still get a high glamour feel. The top is an amazing feat of proportion and cutting. The front has a v-neckline with loose ties at the neck. This tops a curved yoke and then the body of the top flares out under that. The fit through the body is relaxed and the sleeves are cut into fantastical bubble sleeves. They are set low on the sides and then pouf out and are cut on a curve so that they follow the arm and maintain the same pouf from the shoulder to the cuff. The cuffs are cut extra long and slit so that you can wear then unfolded and over the hand or flip them up. The back has a ton of volume and the choice of the fabric keeps it light and airy in feel. I love it. Excellent condition

It is constructed from a double layer of the organza. It slips on to wear with ties at the neck. Each cuff has two silk covered buttons and loops to close. Tagged a modern brand size S but the cut is very generous so it should fit a variety of sizes.

Sleeves: 27" from shoulder to longest point of cuffs
Shoulders: approx 16"
Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist-hips: open
Length: 28" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# S898

Reference Photo: Rosie Assoulin Fall 2017 Collection, Look 41.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This is an incredible dress and jacket set that would be from when Marc Bohan was head of the Dior atelier. It is a beautiful and early example of the work being produced by Christian Dior in this time period. This is the Christian Dior - New York label and is considered to be demi-couture from this time period of Dior's history. These where made for the American market based on the runway designs and with many of the same high standard finishes that Haute Couture pieces incorporated.

This set is just spectacular. It has a simple, refined cut that is made glamorous by the wonderful fabric choice. The fabric is a beautiful wool silk that has a touch of weight to it so that the lines are perfectly held. It has a cream base with squares running over its surface. Each is a peach outline that then has a gold and peach medallion in its centers. In person the peach is brighter and better. The metallic gold lame thread is slight raised up from the fabric so it gives a touch of dimension besides the shine. These cover every square inch of the fabric. It is made of two pieces. The inner dress is a simple sheath that is cut so that is skims over the body and slightly flares out as it reaches the hem. It is sleeveless and the neckline is a simple scoop. It comes with a gold metal and rhinestone chain belt that slips through the loops that run around the low waist and then the belt hooks. The belt is real metal and has crystal detailing set along every 4 inches. I love how it ends in a gold tassel that dangels down under where it hooks. Over this is a little matching jacket that is sheer perfection in cut. It has a neat little collar and box cut. There are no closures and it is the perfect finish once it is popped over the dress. What I love about it is that when the dress is worn on its own it has that touch of a mod feel that the sixties were all about but once the jacket is on it has a very refined feel. Excellent condition with a small note below

Both pieces are lined in a heavy cream silk crepe with an additional silk chiffon interlining through the dress. The dress closes with a had set, hidden zipper at the back. The jacket slips on with no front closures. The belt hooks to close. There is a slight grubbiness to the lining of the inside back collar  of the jacket and one very minor nick out of the fabric on the jacket. Please see the photo after the label shot. . Otherwise the set appears to have been worn very little if at all. Hand finished and very well made to demi-couture standards.

Jacket
Sleeves: 22"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 19" from neck to hem

Dress
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 38" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3357

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This Frank Usher dress is really wonderful. It is a full length maxi dress and the skirt falls to the floor with yards and yards of a bright orange based coral jersey for its fabric. The color is an instant showstopper and the fabric choice means that it drapes and moves fantastically. The skirt is cut on the bias and once it is on you get a better sense of just how much fabric has been used. The waist is set high and just under the bust. There are three long skinny ties made of the same fabric that loop through openings there. These allow you to cinch in the front and gather it a little more if you wish and then you can either leave the ties hanging on either side or tie them at the back. The top has two triangle halters that plunge to those front ties. They then curve up and extend into long straps that tie behind the neck. This leave the back completely bare. Excellent condition

The bodice is a double layer of the jersey and the skirt is unlined. It closes with a low back set zipper and also ties around the neck. Three ties runs through the front that can be adjusted for the perfect fit. The loose and easy cut should allow it to fit a range of sizes. The color is a touch more coral then how it photoed in person

Bust: variable since it has no true side seams and has stretch
Underbust: to approx 14-16.5" flat across from side to side
Natural waist & hips: open
Length: somewhat adjustable but approx 58-60" from neck to hem it will vary a little depending on how you tie it at the neck

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# DD3335

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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Arnold Scaasi was born Arnold Isaacs in Montreal and the name Scassi is simply his own name reversed. He studied in Montreal and in Paris, apprenticed at the house of Paquin and then worked with the legendary Charles James. In 1964, he opened own couture salon. He dressed Hollywood stars like Lauren Bacall, Diahann Carroll and Elizabeth Taylor. He dressed several first ladies including Mamie Eisenhower, Hillary Clinton and both Bush first ladies. He even once bragged that he refused to give Jackie clothes for free. He was the man behind the scandalous 1969 Barbra Streisand sheer trouser outfit that she collected her Oscar in, and he was presented with the Council of Fashion Designers of America Lifetime Achievement Award in 1996. His mainline was made to couture standards and I am always happy to find his work. 

Yards and yards of a peach silk organza have been used in this Arnold Scassi gown. The silk used is just incredible. It is a light weight, fine organza and then onto this are hundreds of little cotton pique shapes that have been individually applied.  The fabric he has chosen give the dress both lightness and fullness. That combined with the inner structure through the sleeves and built in skirting allow it to hold that stunning shape and silhouette that you see without having to add any additional underpinnings of your own. The bodice is fitted and cut to follow and highlight the curves of you body to just above the hip where the skirt then explodes out in all of that volume. I actually love how he has extended the bodice down and to the top of the hips while still defining the waist with that pretty grosgrain and silk belt. It cinches in the waist while still exaggerates the curves of the female form and giving you shape despite all the volume in the sleeves and the skirt. The skirt is wonderfully dramatic and full with inner built in layers of silk and tulle to hold the volume. The inner construction of the skirt is amazing. The very inner skirt is made from a fine peach silk with a broad band of horsehair taping inside the bottom hem. Between that and the outer layer of silk are four full layers of silk net tulle. The sleeves are equally incredible and are shaped to have that gorgeous fullness to them and also have an inner finished of tulle netting to hold the shape. The inside is exquisitely constructed and it is all hand finished. This would make a stunning wedding dress for someone who is not looking for a white dress. Excellent overall condition with a couple of minor notes to review below

The bodice is fully interlined in a fine peach silk. The skirt is finished in silk and tulle as per the description above. The sleeves are finished with tulle. It closes with a hand set back metal zipper. The belt is a silk grosgrain backed with a silk ribbon. It hooks and snaps into place. Finished to couture standard by hand. I see one small spot on one of the appliques to the side of the front waist. There is some slight grubbiness to some of the applique pieces near the hem. At some point a repair was done to the skirt at the back that is extremely well done and I only initially spotted it when steaming the skirt from the inside. There is a small repair and stress to the fabric at the top of one of the white piece near the sleeve on the top. Please review the photos after the label shot. I took two of the one on the top to show the areas up close and then where it is. The colour of the dress in person is a touch more vibrant then how it photoed.

Sleeves: 12"
Shoulders: approx 15"
Bust: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 43" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD3329

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This beautiful and happy feeling dress is one of my favorites from the pieces of Malcolm Starr that I have had in the shop. It was designed by Elinor Simmons, who was a young designer that Malcolm brought in to the company to design a higher end line for him in 1965. She eventually left in 1972 which giving us a window within to date the dress. Everything about this dress suggest the late 1960s.

The silk fabric that the dress is made out of is very pretty and fresh feeling with huge flowers printed across its entire surface. The bodice skims over the torso with darling little capped sleeves and a high set, ribbon detailed waist line. The neck is detailed in a double band of the same black braiding used at the waist. This use of a bit of a darker color anchors the design beautifully and contrasts against the pastels colors of the silk. The skirt falls to the floor, gradually widening out as it nears the hem. I love the fullness that this creates. The silk used has a almost polished cotton finish to it but with a touch more texture. The fabric choice really holds the shape of the dress beautifully and the color is wonderful. I love that it has pockets hidden away at the inset seams that run down the front. It really is a lovely dress. Excellent condition with a note below to review

Fully lined in an ivory muslin through the skirt and an ivory silky rayon through the bodice. It closes with a painted back metal zipper. The hem of the skirt is finished with ribbon. Some grubbiness to the edge of the hem. It appears that the back was taken out at some point alongside the zipper. It could be left as is or easily taken in again to be smaller. I also see what looks to be maybe a faint touch of a pen mark near the zipper. Please review the last photo after the shot of the label. Otherwise it appears to have been worn very little.

Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 22.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 12" from neck to top band at the waist with 2" to the bottom band
Skirt: 42" from bottom band at the waist to hem with 3" turned up under the hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2730

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

As soon as I set my eyes on this dress I knew I had seen it before and after some extensive hunting I found the photo that it had triggered a memory of. A version of this dress was photoed by Irving Penn for the September issue of Vogue in 1967. That dress was by Geoffrey Beene but in a different color way and a version with a higher neckline. They are otherwise identical and the fabric is as good in this color as it is in that shot. Geoffrey Beene was one of the great American fashion designers and he was recognized for both his artistic and technical skills. He launched his label in 1963 and a piece from his very first collection landed the cover of Vogue. This is a wonderful and very early example of his work.

I barely feel the need to describe this dress to you as Vogue description is utter perfection. The text in the editorial states the dress as being a "new cloth of glow... a printed matelasse with clear lacquer colors webbed with silver threads for the beautiful evening proportion of a small covered top and the widest sweep of skirt." Matelasse is French for 'quilted' or 'cushioned' and in usage with fabric, refers to quilted textiles. It is meant to mimic the style of hand-stitched Marseilles type quilts made in France. This gives the dress a slight dimensional quality. The silver thread runs over the fabric for the slightest glint of a metallic feel. The upper bodice is meant to be fitted and the sleeves are long and slim. The skirt sweeps out with the volume created by the fabric choice that helps to hold the shape and by the way it is set in around the waist. Like the reference photo, this version also has pockets hidden along each hip. It is absolutely wonderful in person and I think even better then how it photoed. I am so pleased to have found documentation of this rare and wonderful piece of fashion history. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a silk taffeta in a pale peach color It closes with a back, painted metal zipper. Hand finished throughout. There is a good 4.5" of fabric turned up at the hem if you need more length and 2/5" turned up under each sleeve. Pockets along the seam on the hip

Sleeves: 22.5"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips" open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 41" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3171

Reference photo: Photographed by Irving Penn, Vogue US September 1967

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

Chiffon layers edged in prong set rhinestones give this pretty coral dress a shot of high glamour. The bodice curves over the bust and the chiffon there is set between the banding at the waist and the banding that follows the neckline in vertical pleats. This adds both detailing and texture. The banding is also detailed with a scattering of prong set rhinestones. The skirt swoops to the floor below the bodice and there is actually quite a bit of fabric that has been used in its construction. It is all cut on the bias though so it feels more like a column when the wearer is standing still and only displays its wonderful fullness once you move. An angled panel of fabric wraps around the skirt for extra fullness and to perfectly balance out the one shoulder of the bodice. This panel is also detailed with rhinestones along its edge. The perfect final detail is a bow that sits on top of the shoulder and is made of the same combination of chiffon and rhinestones. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a matching silky rayon. The chiffon this one is made of is a synthetic so will wear very well. It closes with a painted metal and nylon side zipper. It is unlabeled but did have one - you can see the outline of it where it was cut out unfortunately. In person it is a touch of a softer coral then how it photoed.

Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15.5" from top of shoulder to bottom of the band at waist
Skirt: 43" from bottom of the band at waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E632

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This really spectacular piece by Pauline Trigere that is one of her best documented pieces. It was photoed for Vogue in 1966 by Henry Clark while on location in Turkey. The fashion details in that issue described this piece: "High waisted drift of sun printed chiffon with a toga-scarf, and its own little body stocking to wear underneath. By Trigere of Staron silk". This editorial is instantly recognizable and it is a pleasure to have this piece in the shop. 

When you look at the photos from Vogue at first glance, especially the published one, you think this is a dress. However it is actually an extremely wide cut legged jumpsuit. It is also surprising in how it is constructed - it seems to lie half way between a dress and a half jumpsuit. Looking at the photos again the model appears to be wearing a nude halter underneath in the shots. There is a built in body suit inside and you can see that on the mannequin it is sitting too low. If you are short through the body it might come up just to, or over your bust line, otherwise you would wear it as a high waisted full pant. A long panel of fabric is attached at the front. This can be swooped up and over one shoulder. Again, referring to the shoot photos you can see that this is what they did. It  is constructed from layers of a printed silk chiffon that combine pink, pale mint and tangerine The silk used is almost weightless. It flows to the floor and when on you can barely tell that it is indeed pants as they are so wide and full. The front panel extends down past the hem and I have just scooped it up and over one shoulder. It is a very unusual design and will take some styling but it is a rare and historically documented piece. I purchased this years ago I and was told it came from a models closet so suspect that it might just be the actual piece used in this shoot. It is very beautiful. Excellent condition with one small note below.

Has an attached crepe bodysuit in a nude color. This zips up the back with a painted metal zipper. The silk over this snaps in place to close. Hand finished. Has a hand numbered tag inside #159. Slight wear to the fabric on the inside band of the waist where it hooks to close. 

Top band of waist/Underbust: to 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips of inner body suit: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length of inner suit: 23.5" from top of band to inner seams
Pant length: 45" from top of band to hem with a 4.5" turned up interior hem
The front attached fabric panel is 56" long from where it is inset to the hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED depending on how how you wear it

Item# DD2996

(1) Editha Dussler in Pauline Trigere, from the editorial Eastward to Eden, Vogue, December 1966. Shot by Henry Clarke. (2) Outtake from that same shoot.

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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A similar dress in yellow was photoed in 1965 and the dress with its beautiful, almost iridescent peach is even prettier in my opinion. Marc Bohan was only a couple of years into his tenure as head of Dior and the 1965 collection was a study in line and cut. He designed a gown called the "Eloise" that year that has a similar cut and apron technique used in the skirt, it is the obvious that this dress is descended from that. I have included photos of both dresses as reference.

The first thing about this dress that you are drawn to is the color. It is an amazing shade of peach and the camera does not quite capture the slightly iridescent quality that the silk adds to its impact. In person it is gorgeous and the color is richer and has more depth. The dress is immaculately constructed. For example, the edge of each inner seam is painstakingly wrapped in a thin banding of silk chiffon. The work to do this with such a finicky fabric would have taken hours to complete just this one detail and it is a detail that is unseen. The dress has a almost sculptural feel to its shape. The bodice is sleeveless and has a softly scooped neck. It is cut and fitted to skim over the body by perfectly placed seaming. The skirt is deceptive as it appears to be a simple cut but it is actually constructed in layers.  There is an inner fitted skirt that has two slit pockets that sit on each hip. Over this inner layer are two attached panels, one that sits over the front of the skirt and the other that sits over the back. The best way to describe it is like an attached apron that leaves the sides open on either side to see the inner skirt. It is exquisite. Excellent condition with a note to review below concerning the inner lining.

The dress is fully lined in a white silk chiffon on both the inner dress and under the skirt overlays. The inner silk bodice is lined in a silk crepe. It closes at the back with a painted metal, hand set zipper. There is a second hand set metal zipper that closes the inner waist and bodice. Hook and eye are hidden to close the band set at the waist. All the edges of the inner seams are finished with a silk chiffon edging. Some of the inner lining is splitting horizontally here and there as the fabric used was so fine and delicate. I have chose to leave it as found rather then having it removed. It is all original and is stable and wearable as is and of course you do not see the lining when it is on. It appears to have not been worn or worn very little otherwise. The label is numbered denoting its demi-couture status.

Bust: 18.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to to bottom hem

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD953

Reference photo: (1) Marc Bohan for Christian Dior, 1965.  /  (2-3) from the book Dior, Marc Bohan 1961-1989 by Assouline.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival

This was designed when Youssef Rizkallah headed the company so would have been made between the years of 1969 and 1975. The years that Youssef headed the line are among some of my favorites and in particular his pieces that utilize quilting and patchwork are truly iconic. Rizkallah was born in Egypt and studied at the Ecole de dessin appliqué and the Ecole des arts decoratifs in Paris. The fabric used is unusual in that it feels like a light wool. It is not a fabric that you see a lot of for this line but it holds the shape and color beautifully. The bodice skims over the torso with darling little capped sleeves that are each finished with a little bow. The  waist line is defined with a seam and set a little higher then the natural waist for just a hint of an empire feel. The neck is scooped and the pattern places on the bodice to highlight the shape and curve of the dress. The skirt cascades to the floor in a widening swath of fabric and the combination of fabric and the quilting detail helps to give it the shape that you see. A decorative row of buttons runs down the front for added detailing. The colors used are wonderful and the dress has a glamorous and exotic feel. I love that it has pockets hidden away along the seams of the skirt. It is really a lovely dress. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a purple silky rayon through the bodice and self-backed through the skirt. It closes with a painted back metal zipper. The buttons down the front are decorative only. I see a tiny bit of discoloration on the interior lining of the bodice but the exterior is pristine.

Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 40" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2947

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This is a beautiful silk chiffon jumpsuit by the American couturier James Galanos and really showcases just how great he was at working with fine, light silk chiffon. Galanos was known as the designer that could rival the French in terms of construction and design. He launched his atelier in 1951 and though he was never a designer whose label was formally made a true Haute Couture atelier, he certainly produced clothing with many of the hallmarks that define couture, thus giving him the status as being known as one of the "American Couturiers". I consider mos of his pieces demi-couture for that very reason. I love the coral and taupe print that completely covers the jumpsuit and its contrasting coral-red lining that peeks out at the cuffs and those fantastic cut legs. The silk chiffon fabric that he chose to use is wonderful and the lightness and airy feeling it creates is the perfect balance to the bold print. It moves beautifully once on and really gives the otherwise tailored jumpsuit a sensual and luxurious feel. The top is cut with a simple scoop neckline and long sleeves that each end in a double ruffle of silk. The waist is nipped in and you could add a belt to create even more shape. The pants are amazing. Each is cut wide and full so that if you are standing still it appears that you are wearing a maxi skirt. When you move you realize that each is slit almost the the top of the thigh and the fabric wraps over. Standing they look solid, but when you move they give a flash of skin. They, like the ruffle on the cuffs are lined in a second layer of red so that contrast is there as well. It is fabulous. Excellent condition.

Fully lined  in a red silk chiffon and hand finished edges. The top buttons to close at the back and with a zipper under that below the waist. Appears unworn. Also after photoing this I feel like perhaps the buttons could also be worn at the front. I think you can wear it either way making it that much more versatile.

Sleeves: 26.5"
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 19.5" from neck to waist
Skirt: 44" from waist to hem
Inseam: 36"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# DD2759

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

Geoffrey Beene was one of the great American fashion designers and he was recognized for both his artistic and technical skills. He launched his label in 1963 and a piece from his very first collection landed the cover of Vogue. A Coty award followed a year later and in 1984 the Council of Fashion Designers created the annual Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement award in honor of Beene's fashion legacy.

Geoffrey Beene's evening wear rarely misses the mark. It always has this combination of elegance and sexiness with great details and workmanship that makes you feel that you are really wearing something special. Here we have a beautiful chiffon dress with a fabulous square cut out back. The color of the dress is very unusual. The colour has been achieved by layering a chocolate brown semi-sheer chiffon over an inner layer of cape that has been done in a bright orange. Then under that is a nude coloured lining. This combination makes the final resulting colour a deep burnt pumpkin colour that is very striking. 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 bodice has a wide band at the waist with an attached tie that wraps and snaps into place and then ties at the front. The arms are cut to taper down as they reach each wrist. The skirt swings out from the waist and there is literally yards and yards of fabric in it. If you twirl it is a full circle. The neck is cut in a wide scoop across the front but the back is left completely bare. It is that starts open back that gives you an element of shock when you turn. I love it. . Excellent condition

Fully lined in a nude silk crepe, it closes with a low back, hand set zipper and the attached waist tie snaps into place around the waist and then ties and snaps at the front. Each sleeve has hidden snaps at the wrist. Hand finishes

Sleeves: 27" approx.
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 25.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16.5" from top of bodice to lower waist band, with the included band being approx 4.25"
Skirt: 42" from the bottom of the waist band to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2146

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.