This coat is extraordinary. It bears the Eisa label, originally launched by Cristóbal Balenciaga in 1917. The name came from the shortening of his mother's maiden name. During the Spanish Civil war the label briefly closed but then re-opened in 1939 until it was closed permanently in 1968. Cristóbal himself oversaw this line and items were made to couture standards. Based on the cocoon silhouette and the work he was doing in that time period this coat dates to approx the late 1950s, early 1960s. Cristobal Balenciaga was known for his fine tailoring and sculptural approach to design. The restrained and refined lines of this coat showcase exactly that aesthetic. Even Dior himself declared Balenciaga as 'the Master of us all' and Balenciaga's impact on fashion cannot be underestimated. He passed away in 1968 so any time I acquire a piece that pre-dates his death, I am especially thrilled.

The coat bears that elusive Eisa label and would have been made by hand n the atelier. It is extremely well made as one would expect. Cristobal was known for doing fitting with clients himself, from the initial muslin stage all the way through to the final fittings. This coat, having been constructed during the years he was alive, means that it would be one of those a garments that were fitted by him. It is cut with the volume and curving cocoon silhouette that defined the era. I love how the buttons run almost right to the bottom hem. This in itself is unusual and a clue to who designed it without even seeing the inner label. It does up right to the collar. When it is completely close the collar is a small and neat circle around the neck that wraps over itself. When it is unbuttoned it softens and becomes more pointed and feels larger. A clever little design detail. The seams are cut gracefully on a vertical line and kept to the absolute minimum. The cut of the coat is simple, yet extremely beautiful. The subtlety of the seams is fabulous in person. The shoulders  are dropped and curved. The arms cut tot just below the elbow. Volume is built in through the body. These are all classic elements of his iconic cocoon or egg coat. Front pockets are hidden along the seams that runs down the front. The fabric is a wonderful element all on its own in this coat. It is a nubby textured wool that has been dyed to a brilliant and striking orange with a hand dyed silk lining to match. The color alone makes it brilliant. It still feels insanely modern and is a rare and collectible piece of mid-century couture. Excellent condition

Lined in hand set orange silk taffeta. It buttons to close and has pockets on each hips. Each pocket is lined in silk. Proper button holes and hand finished. The easy cut will allow it to fit a range of sizes

Sleeves: approx. 21"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: to 27" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist-hips: open
Length: 38" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# C510

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.

This coat is extraordinary. It is a beautiful and early example of the work that the Christian Dior label was doing during this time period. The label is the Christian Dior, New York label and pieces form this label where made for the American market based on the runway designs of Paris. Many of the same high standard finishes that the true Haute Couture pieces were incorporated.

The coat is cut with the volume and curves that defined the era and showcases the influence that the house of Dior had in establishing the direction fashion was taking in this time period. A neat small collar curves around the neckline. This sits above the large carved wood buttons that run down the front. The lines of the coat are simple and beautiful with a sweeping fullness that is quite wonderful. The design has curving shoulders from which the arms extend. I love that the seams to set the arms into the coat extend out from the neck and directly into the sleeves so that there is no traditional arm seam to break the line. Through the body and extending out tot he hem the cut is fantastically full and voluminous. An angles pocket sits on each hip at the front and the sleeves have a half strap detail with a smaller carved wood button on each cuff. The fabric is amazing and feels like a thick yarn that has been woven into a cross hatch boucle. The thick strands combine a gorgeous combination of pinks, corals, blues, purples and pops of other colors that become apparent the closer you look. The result is bright and happy in feel. The inside is lined in a pretty blue silk so you get a wonderful pop of contrast when you leave it open. Excellent condition

Lined in hand set black, textured blue silk. It buttons to close at the front and has pockets on each hip. The buttons have proper finished buttonholes. Hand finishes. The cut is meant to sit oversized on the body and so will fit a variety of sizes. Note that the inside lining is a slightly deeper color then how it photoed and that there is a slight grubbiness to the inside lining near the neckline as shown in the photo after the label shot.

Sleeves: approx 20"
Shoulders: approx 15" but no true seams so you can go up or down a bit
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam inside
Waist-hips: open
Length: 39" from top of bodice to waist

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# C499

Reference Photos: (1-2) Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, by Erin Leydon. 

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 exceptional Mollie Parnis dress was showcased on Beverly Johnson for Vogue in 1973 and I am very pleased to have it in the shop. It is cut to follow and skim over the body with a beautiful one shoulder silhouette. I especially love the strong coral red color of it. It is the kind of color that flatters almost any skin tone and helps the dress make a strong statement despite the simple lines of it. The dress cascades from that single shoulder in a swooping column of fabric. One side of the dress is cut wide to slight sit over the cap of your own shoulder while the other side is left bare. It zips up at the side of the inner part of the dress and then over that is a layer of jersey that is caught up under the arm and ties. It is set slightly towards the back and falls in soft drapes down the side of the dress. I love how this creates a low dip off of he side of the back just like how you see it sit in the reference photo. It is truly a gorgeous piece. Excellent condition.

All the layers are made of the same jersey. The inner dress is made of a double layer and then the outer exterior layer drapes over that. The inner dress closes with a painted metal zipper and the outer layer closes with hook & eye and ties at the side. I see a couple of teeny pinholes near the hem but nothing detracts and the fabric is strong and stable. Hand rolled edges. The fabric does have some stretch

Bust: 15-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13-14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: to 60" from top of shoulder to hem but will come up some as its bias cut

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2708

Reference Photo: Beverley Johnson in Mollie Parnis for Vogue, December 1973. Photographed by Kourken Pakchanian.

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.

These 70s jersey dresses are always a favorite and when I find a great one like this one is, I snatch it up for the shop. The dress is made from a well done synthetic jersey and this fabric choice gives it really great movement and drape. This fabric also held color very well and the gorgeous coral this dress is finished in shows that off to full advantage. The inner dress is a simple sheath that gradually widens out as it nears the hem. Anther layer sits over that and then a single panel is attached at one side of the from tot form the three layers you see on the curved side. That one side curves up and around from the hem and forms a pretty line that goes right to the neckline. This also hides an open slit that shows a flash of leg when you sit or walk and gives the dress a touch of shape as it flares out at the hem. The dress is suspended from the shoulders  from two skinny little straps made from the same fabric. On one side of the neckline sits a pretty fabric flower in the exact same shade. The flower adds to the illusion that the dress is wrapped around you and that it is the flower that is holding the dress in place. It's a great and easy dress to wear that can easily go from the beach to day wear to night with a change of styling. Excellent condition

The innermost layer is unlined and the dress closes with a side metal and nylon zipper. The fabric does have some stretch and the loose and easy cut will allow it to fit a variety of sizes. The color is just a touch more saturated in person.

Bust: 17-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21- 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from top of shoulder to hem
Slit" 25" from hem up

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# DD3125

Reference photo: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, by Erin Leydon

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

I have had this Frank Usher tucked away for a long time because it is so amazing that it was hard to let go. It is really amazing. It drapes to the floor in a slinky column of jersey that is gathered all along the center front. This gathering detail makes it very forgiving on the body and very flattering. The fabric is a jersey that is almost like a bathing suit jersey and it is a choice that allows it to drape and move wonderfully. It's a definite statement maker with that brilliant orange-coral color and has a Grecian goddess feel to it. It is cut on the bias so falls and drapes to follow every curve. The skirt is long and lean and glides to the floor. Above that, the top is cut to angle towards the center with ties extending out that cross over each other and then wrap around the neck. You can also wear it with more of a V at the neck. Those ties are miles long and fall almost to the hem at the back which gives the back its own drama. Add to that a low scooped back that leave your back bare and it is a knock-out. The fabric is wash and wear and will pack & travels exceptionally well. I love it. Excellent condition

Made from a double layer of the jersey. It slips on to wear with a low back zipper and an enclosed elastic that wraps around the waist and then hooks. The halter ties at the back of the neck. Tagged a vintage UK38/US12. The fabric has stretch so it will fit a range of sizes. I have given the comfortable range of stretch when measured flat below.

Bust: variable since it has no true side seams and has stretch
Waist: 13.5-15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner layer hips: 18-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: somewhat adjustable but approx 56-58" from neck to hem it will vary a little depending on how you tie it at the neck

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# DD2774

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 classic print by Alexander McQueen and I love it. The dress is stunning and showcases his masterful draping techniques. It is constructed of two layers of bias cut stretch jersey, the top printed layer and an inner nude lingerie weight layer. They are set perfectly over top the other so that once it is on it feels like a perfectly fitted glove, yet is not constrictive at all. It simply drapes into place and moves to fit and mold over your curves. The print is a beautiful, soft screened butterfly design that covers the dress from shoulder to hem. The colors are vivid and bright. The top is cut to blouse over the waist at the front and at the back it scoops down in a drape of fabric to reveal the upper back. The stretch jersey allows you to play with the length of the skirt - at its full length it will fall to the the knee or just past, and if you prefer it shorter you can wear it higher. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a nude lingerie weight stretch jersey and slips on to wear with elastic through the waist. The fabric has stretch and the measurements given are the the comfortable range of stretch lying flat but it is very accommodating because of the fabric. Tagged a 40

Bust: 16.5-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 14-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 17" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 29" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3123

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

These little 1950s Hawaiian dresses are wonderful and are cut to give you curves. They have such a classic silhouette that they still feel fresh even after 50+ years. This one is unlabelled and would have most likely come directly out of Hawaii in the movement that was set up to cater directly to the thriving tourist market of that era. These sarong styled sun dresses were worn by Hollywood starlets and girls bought them in droves to emulate their favorite stars. I love the sarong style skirting with its attached illusion of a wrap skirt complete with a little tie of fabric that sits at the side of waist. This one is boned through the bodice for support and the neckline is slightly gathered at the bust for a touch of detailing. The print is a pretty mix of a right tropical orange against a brown and tan backdrop. It is very pretty and very flattering on. The fabric is still crisp and it appears to have never been worn. Excellent condition

The dress is unlined and has boning in the bust area It closes with a side painted metal zipper. Made of a crisp cotton and appears to have never been worn, or worn very little.

Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 10" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D598

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 1940s feel to this dress is distinctive and it was this feature that allowed me to find the date of the collection. We tracked down a photo of Karl with a model in 1974 wearing a dress from that years collection that has that same 1940s feel to it that as we see on this example. The date also matches what I was told about the purchase date by the original owner. It is these collections during the years between 1969 and 1975 that we still see heavily influence the modern bohemian feel of Chloe today. Examples of his work during this time period are held in museums around the world and are rare finds.

At first glance you would think this is a dress straight off the 1940s runway. It has that same cut and feel and even the silk used has that feel of the early crepe silks. You can see the more modern touches (for 1974 that is) with the black lace that edges the sleeves and finishes the hemline. In person it is even better then how it photoed as you can really get lost in that gorgeous print of dragonflies, flowers and butterflies that cover the entire surface. The cut is classic forties in feel with a loose and easy fitting bodice whose cap sleeves are en extension of the fabric used for the bodice itself. So there are no seams there to break the line or disrupt the pattern. The skirt under that falls just past the knee and is also cut to be loose and easy. At the hips on either side sit bows that combine a matching printed fabric with a coral silk that add detail and a touch of volume there. The dress is made from a  fine black silk that has  that wonderful design screened over it surface in a way that give it the appearance that it was hand painted. It came with its matching fabric tie that you can use to cinch in the waist or tie around the neck. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with a back, hidden set  painted metal& nylon zipper. Has its matching tie belt. Hand finishes throughout

Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 30.5" from waist to hem
Tie: 45" x 2.5"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3050

Reference Photo: Karl Lagerfeld and a model for Chloé Spring/Summer 1974 Fashion Show.

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.

I love this full circle skirt by Yves Saint Laurent with its strong nod back to the 1950s in feel. It is made out of a crisp cotton that has been printed with a wonderfully bright, abstract tangerine design that covers the entire skirt from waist to hem. It cinches in with a fitted waist and below that the skirt is a full circle skirt. I styled it both over a light crinoline and without. There is enough room that you could actually do a very full crinoline under it if you really wanted that true fifties look. The pretty print and options on how full you can wear the skirt depending on what goes underneath make it very versatile and you will be able to dress it up or wear it casually. Excellent condition

Unlined with a side zipper and flat hook and eyes at the waist. A pocket sits along the seam beside the zipper side. Tagged a vintage YSL 34. Appears unworn. A touch more vibrant tangerine orange then how it photoed. Better in person.

Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 32" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# S815

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 such a pretty skirt that is made out of a fine light weight silk. The print that covers the silk is large, oversized tropical flowers in a muted coral that  are scattered over its surface. Pale green leaves and vines intertwine between the flowers and the backdrop is a yellow with a green undertone. The waist band is fitted and the cut widens out as it nears the hem. In person the fabric has a slight iridescent quality to it that is very pretty. The hem is finished with a wide 14" ruffle that gives it a little bit of drama and a feminine feel. Really pretty and chic. Excellent condition.

Fully interlined in a white silk though the upper skirt and the ruffle is backed in a pale yellow silk. It closes with three hook & eye at the waist and a zipper.

Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open to 26" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 44" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# S814

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, by Erin Leydon.

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

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

Made from a beautifully printed fluid, nylon jersey, this dress drapes and moves wonderfully It is one of those dresses that are very easy to travel with as it is virtually wrinkle free. It is the kind of piece you can throw into a suitcase and be able to wear right away and also has the added benefit of being able to be hand washed. It works from day to night depending on how you style it and what shoes you wear. The black base is the perfect backdrop for the orange print that runs over the dress. If you look closely you realize that the print is actually a combination of stylized dragons and birds. The bust slightly cross over itself at the front and the shoulders can be opened so that they fan out over each shoulder as I have photoed it, or you can bunch the fabric to sit more on the top so it feels more sleeveless. Both the front and back are set into low Vs. The skirt flares to the floor in a gentle sweep of jersey. I love how the print accents the line of the dress to full advantage. The Mac Tac label was produced by a parent company called Leonard Sunshine and in terms of print and quality it is right up there with Leonard  or Pucci pieces in my book. Excellent condition.

Unlined, slips on to wear with a flat elastic through the waist. The fabric has some stretch. Appears to have been worn very little if at all. The fabric does have stretch. Tagged a vintage 8

Bust: 15-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: approx 17" from top of bodice to slightly dropped waist
Skirt: 40" from slightly dropped waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2952

Reference photo: from @laurakitty's instagram featuring Susan Smith, Heloise and Anne Holbrook for Mac Tac, 1976.

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.

Earlier this week I listed a Bill Tice that I own the twin of and I have to confess that I also own a twin of this one. I wear it endlessly - most often without the jacket. It is super sexy with that low demi-cup halter bodice and little bare keyhole just under the center front. The straps are tiny and curve up and around your shoulders and its cut so it feel like the back sits slightly off the body. It is made of a peach jersey that is meant to mimic a silk. It feels amazing on and has the added bonus of traveling very well. It is the kind of set you can throw into your suit case and slip on with either flats or heels when you reach some far off destination and be perfectly ready to go. The inner dress is long and slim with pleats running down its length and a pretty print that slowly turn more of a pale green as it nears the hem. The jacket has that same print treatment and just slips on ans ties at the neck. There is a high slit up one leg of the dress that shows when you walk or sit. I love the flat piping detail that runs across the bust. Excellent condition.

Unlined and both pieces slip on. Ties at the top of the neck of the jacket. The easy fit allows it work on a variety of sizes as long as the bust fits.

Jacket
Sleeves: 24.5"
Shoulders: 12.5"
Bust: open
Waist: open
Length: 19.5" from neck to hem

Dress
Bust: 16-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: open
Hips: open
Length: 55" from shoulder strap to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD2941

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 gown is made from a polished cotton which is an unusual choice for an evening piece. That, combined with the amount of details put into it, gives it a very special feel and I adore it. The fabric is very pretty with a floral palette that is made up of a combination of pink and coral flowers on an abstract taupe and white backdrop. The pattern is done to give it the feeling of a watercolor and this pretty effect just adds to its allure. The skirt is very full and cut so that it sits slightly longer and fuller at the back. Extra fabric is gathered just under the mid-back to give it that pretty fullness. Under the skirt is an attached crinoline made of a yellow, ruffle edged tulle for fullness and the skirt itself is lined with dressmakers paper so that it holds and keeps its shape. At the front there are angled, flat pleats that are set to work in and up towards the center waist so that you get shape without bulk. To highlight the waist there is a wide mustard colored silk satin sash that wraps around the waist. At the back, this sash is set in a large half bow and then the ends trails almost to the floor in two wide panels. The bust is suspended from the shoulders with teeny straps that curve down and into the low back. It is finished internally with boning for added structure. It is elaborately finished with curving trails of sequins, prong set rhinestones and the most amazing 3D floral appliques made of the same floral fabric. It is wonderful and with all those 1950s details that makes pieces from this time period so very special. Excellent condition.

The skirt and waist are backed with dressmakers paper. The bodice has an additional partial lining of a cream silky rayon and is boned. There is an inner attached tulle net skirt that ties to close behind the zipper at the waist. The bow is attached and hooks and snaps into place. It closes with a back painted metal zipper. It appears to have been worn very little if at all.

Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 12" from shoulder to slight empire waist
Skirt: 42" from slight empire waist to front hem, 53" to back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E497

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

I have had the twin of this in the shop before but the first was a little smaller then this one is. It is from earlier in his career and I love the statement making combination of that classic 1960s orange and yellow color palette with the starkness of the black. The top part of the jumpsuit is cut like a little button down shirt with pointed, notched collar and short sleeves. The print is set in the highlight the cut. A row of black, decorative buttons trails down the front and I love how the pattern is used to create the illusion of 'cuffs' on each sleeve. The bottom is a pant that has wide panels of fabric wrapped over each wide cut leg so that depending on how you stand it appears to be a full length skirt. Each outer side of each leg has a sexy slit that is cut to just past the knee for a little flash of skin Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a black silky cotton mix and closes with a hand set, back painted zipper. The buttons at the front are decorative only.

Shoulders: 16"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15.5" from neck to waist
Skirt: 43" from waist to hem
Inseam: 30"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2822

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 gorgeous dress is by Bob Mackie and from his main line which can be considered as demi-couture. He Mackie is best known for dressing Cher. His work showcases his love of over-the-top opulence and often showcase extensive bead work and applique work. He worked for both Edith Head and Jean Louis before starting his own label. This early entry into costume design and the glamor of Hollywood continued to influence his work through his career. His designs are always extravagant and glamorous in the best possible way. Here we have a piece from the 1980s and it has that opulent feel in spades. The gown in made in delicious shades of metallic golds through the bodice mixed with a pastel coral based metallic silk for the skirt. The bust is strapless and has a gold cord embroidered "lace" applique that covers it all the way around. This is layered over the same silk the skirt is made up of. Scattered over this are gold and clear crystals that catch the light when you move. The skirt is fabulous and the silk is a nod to Fortuny in the pleating treatment. The silk here has a lame feel to it and seems to glow. The underskirt is a gold silk taffeta and there is a lot of fabric there so it really has fullness and movement when you move. The bodice is very structured and molded. It feels like couture once on. Extremely well made. Excellent condition with two small condition notes to review below.

Fully lined in a muted gold silk though the bodice and the silk taffeta underskirt is interlined in a silk organza. The bodice has a built in, molded bra and boned corset built in under the lining. There is also an inner waist stay. It closes with a back painted zipper. Hand finished throughout. There is a small repair to the silk near the hem at the front and another near the base of the zipper. The pleating treatment to the silk effectively hides these when on but mentioned for accuracy and I have photoed both.

Bust: 17.5-8" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam and the inner waist stay hooks to fit a either a 26-27" waist, if you need the full 28" you can leave the stay undone or remove it
Hips: open
Bodice: 9.5" from top of bodice to true inner waist
Skirt: 43.5" from true inner waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2814

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 little beautiful Suzy Perette dress is made of a beautiful light weight fabric with a floral pattern in an array of citrus hues. I have not found a really great Perette dress in ages and am so pleased to have such a fine example of her work in the shop today. There never was an actual "Suzy" behind the label but the company that created the line relied heavily on the designs coming out of Paris and the interpretations of the Couture looks, in particular Dior's "New Look", were spot on. This gorgeous little dress dates from the 1950s and has such pretty colors and pretty lines that you can't help but swoon at the sight of it. The top is a simple sleeveless affair with a wide boat neck cut. It is seamed to hug the body and then this flares out and tops a full skirt that has lots of fabric in it and could be worn over a crinoline if you wanted it even fuller. The entire skirt is made from a series of perfectly spaced, crisp knife pleats so it has a lot of movement. The original, matching fabric belt cinches in the waist even more and I love the large flat belt that adorns the belt. The colors are lovely, the cotton voile fabric of very good quality and the lines and cut are wonderful. Excellent condition

Fully lined with a white muslin and closes with a back painted metal zipper. The belt is in excellent shape as well.

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from top of shoulder to waist
Skirt: 26.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2810

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.

This amazing little dress has a sexy but simple cut that works fabulously once on. The front has a twisted halter detail with an open cut out below that. From just under the cut out it flows to the floor in a column of bias cut nylon jersey. An almost scandalous slit runs up the front and shows miles of leg. Kloss was genius at choosing extremely high quality nylons that held the color well and would drape exactly as he wished. I love the feather print - these are the most rare and if you love this one you might also want to take a peek at the other version I have (click here to see that one). The interesting thing about John Kloss for Circa pieces are that they were originally intended as lingerie pieces. This makes the vast majority of piece that one finds too thin or too sheer to wear as proper dresses now. But every once in a while you find a fabulous little exceptions like this. Kloss was an Ossie Clark contemporary and I love how you can see that same British sense of sexiness during this time period in his pieces. Excellent condition.

Unlined and slips on to wear. Tagged a vintage Kloss for Circa Medium but please check measurements. At some point the tag was cut and has been stitched back together. Edges are finished with his signature cross stitch. the fabric does have some stretch so the size range is slightly more variable then usual.

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Under Bust: 14-16"
Natural Waist: 16-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20-22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 53" from strap to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD2455

Reference: Image from Bloomingdales lingerie catalogue, 1976, shot by Guy Bourdin.

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

Annacat is a label that is very hard to find and rare. When you do find one and it is as sexy and delicious as this one is you really feel like celebrating. In its day, Annacat piece were featured often in editorials for Vogue UK and Harper's. The label was a heavy favorite of the fashion insiders at the time and worn by the "it girls" and rock stars of the day. This full length maxi dress is an amazing example of the best of what they were producing and why there were wait lists to get your hands on their dresses back then. The bodice is gathered along the center halter piece that ties up and around the back of the neck. Then, each side of the bodice extends into a long fabric tie that you wrap and tie around the waist or tie at the back and leave trailing down. This design leaves the back completely open and bare so it is insanely sexy. The waist nips in with the front halter extending into a wide panel right down the front - it almost acts like a huge pendant or neck piece. The skirt has yards and yards of fabric and it moves wonderfully as it is all cut on the bias. The silk is a good weight and a delicious burnt amber color. It is a very rare and very fabulous vintage piece that still feels shockingly modern and sexy. Excellent condition.

Unlined and closes with a back painted metal zipper at the back waist. The front extends on either side and ties in the back and then the halter buttons at the back of the neck. Also if you love this one you may want to see this one as well - its the twin in cut but made of cotton

Bust: variable as it ties
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: approx 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD1618

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