Gorgeous 1960s Alberto Fabiani Roma Black Dress w Elaborate Beaded Cord Detail

This gorgeous little dress is by the Italian designer Alberto Fabiani. His work is held in Museums around the world including The Met and they have a nice little summary of him that I will share here; 'Alberto Fabiani was a well-received Italian designer, rising to fame in the 1950s. He was known for his classic designs and flattering silhouettes. Interestingly, he married one of his contemporaries, Simonneta Visconti, previously Duchessa Simonetta Colona di Cesaro. Their design ideas were quite diverse, each fulfilling the needs of a different clientele." The dress is beautifully made and a fabulous example of Italian design during this time.

The dress is stunning. It is made from that really high end fine wool that you mostly see from this time period and just before. This fabric has a rich weight to it but still feels completely comfortable to wear when it's on the body. The shape is a study in simplicity. It has no collar and curves around the neck. It is notched into a V at the front and this allows some skin to show. At and around the base of the plunge is where that elaborate design sits. The design follows down the center of the dress all the way to about the waist or just past it. It is made from hand applied braided silk cord with a wired silk cord beside that and laid out into an intricate design. Interspersed among the cording are tiny seed beads, larger faceted beads and black crystals to catch the light. The dress is cut with soft shoulders and  meant to skim over the bust, waist and hips. The shape is created by vertical panels set on these beautiful curves at the sides. As it nears the hem it's flares out for that perfect sixties shape. The fabric is turned under at the hem to give both some allowance to be let down if needed and to also act as a slight added weight to keep the shape. Each sleeve follows that same basic shape where they fall from the shoulder and widen out as they near their ends. The ends are shaped into this little curve that comes up on the outside of the arm for a pretty little detail. Each sleeve has its own elaborate medallion that pays off the one on the chest. The majority of the work appears to be done by hand and it is a beautiful little dress. Excellent condition with a small note below.

Fully lined in a hand set black silk except for the sleeves. Some small repairs and minor shattering to the interior lining. Hand finished throughout and closes with a fine back metal zipper.

Sleeves: 20" and 12.5" around the upper arm
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 39" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD4201

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