1920s Silk Blue Beaded Flapper Dress

A very beautiful and very wearable original 1920s beaded silk flapper dress is always a special thing to have on the site! You have to realize that these were completely hand done and to survive and be wearable now, some 100 odd years later is almost a miracle. I always feel a little honored to have these and think that yet another fabulous girl might swing them around the dance floor! This one has a black silk chiffon base that has a lovely art deco influenced swirled and panelled design using a combination of jet black and brilliant blue beads. The blue absolutely pops against the black and the other black beads act to add shimmer and texture! The top portion is heavily beaded and almost naughty with its implied blue design that covers each breast. An unusual strap would expose each shoulder but still give the illusion of a a "sleeve". I brilliant swirled design sits at the waist . The skirt gets a faux panel treatment with beading and it is scalloped along the edge. One side snaps till the waist and then each side of the skirt is left open so you can wear this tunic style over something else - perhaps a contrasting color? or just wear as a dress and top it over a basic black slip underdress. Amazing, wearable and of museum quality.

1920s Silk Chiffon Bias Cut Day Dress

This is yet another piece from that same estate that produced an important Worth cape and the woman who owned these pieces was both wealthy and well travelled. This is a wonderful bias cut, hand screened silk chiffon flapper dress. The color is slightly more vibrant in person but the overall effect is soft and romantic - almost dreamy!† The piece work to create the skirting in particular is extraordinary - it actually used curved seams where the panels are inserted to create the shape! I cannot even imagine working with the fabric ot do that! A romantic caped bodice tops the almost weightless panelled skirting. The entire dress floats and moves with the barest of movement on your part. The edges are rolled and cross stitched. It is extraordinarily lovely and still strong and wearable with care. These where meant to float over a smaller frame so I have listed it as SML-MED but it is flexible in terms of size. A truly beautiful dress and in excellent condition!

Bust: 22" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 20" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: approx 18 from shoulder to dropped waist
Skirt: approx 33" from the dropped waist to bottom hem

The dress is fully lined with a pink crepe silk that feels like it was hand washed at some point but is strong and stable. The upper bodice is lined in netting. It slips over the head and has an attached waist with a jeweled clasp. Hand rolled edges and hand finished. It is in what I would consider excellent shape with no real flaws to note. Please remember that pieces of this age will have a natural patina and should not be expected to be absolutely perfect (though this is close)! It is after all almost 100 years old!

Note that antique and twenties pieces are final sale. They will be packed exceedingly well and we only sell pieces that will stand up to the stress of shipping, however, having pieces potentially shipped multiple times through multiple customs and countries is too hard on garments that are historically important and deserve to be treated with love and care. Please purchase accordingly.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML-MED (6-10)

Item# D367

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

1920s Silk Embroidered Piano Shawl

Gorgeous embroidered silk Chinese export shawl that is from the twenties. It is a spectacular explosion of flowers, cranes and butterflies done in a satin stitch. The colors are as vibrant as the day it was done and are perfectly set off against the black silk backdrop. It is dramatic and so wearable - you can use it as an evening cape or coat by adding a well placed brooch or use it in your home as a show-stopping accessory. The stitching appears to be primarily machine stitch with some finishes done by hand. It is edged all the way around with a† 22" hand knotted silk fringe border. Measures† 99" square including the fringe

1920s Silk Net Sequin Flapper Over Dress

Exquisite 1920s piece has some of the most phenomenal sequin work I have yet to see. The base of the dress is a black fine silk netting. Onto this has been hand applied row after row of glossy black sequins with an amazing floral design worked in along the hem, just under the hips and around the bodice with fantastic couture level sequin work. The sequins are† applied in thick designs with some parts of the floral patterns sitting off the fabric! It is really an amazing piece of art! Both sides have a deep deep V with low sides - it really can be worn either way. Each side is low (though they are different - an interesting touch - and each has a beaded blue ombre detail securing the side. This would have been worn over a semi sheer or sheer colored under dress - you can let you imagination run wild in matching yours to the colors in the bead work. It is shockingly light due to the combination of sequins on net - you think it will be very heavy but its like wearing air! Really an extraordinary piece. Strong and wearable with the care and love it deserves to be shown - this is one of the best 1920s pieces I have ever seen. The level of work in this piece would only be found in the highest couture of today! Museum quality.

1920s Silk, Velvet & Gold Flapper Coat

A drop dead gorgeous silk chiffon flapper coat with fused silk cut velvet applique in a soft pastel color throughout. The base fabric is a stunning pastel version of a coral that is backed in a pale ice pink - this gives the chiffon an extra layer of depth. Onto the chiffon is a stunning design of fused silk velvet applied to form pretty flowers that varies in how much was applied - heavier near the hem and on the collars and scattered prettily over the sleeves and upper portion. It is cut in a classic cocoon flapper shape. It closes low on the front with a fabric covered buttin that has a hook and eye hidden behind it, Inside there is an attached tie inside to secure. You can easily add a bit of a silk underneath and wear this as a dress as well! Each sleeve is cut kimono style with a wide wide hem that is edged in a 3" banding of metallic gold lace. The back is a work of art! A wide six inch panel of the same real metallic lace work falls in a column of gold til it reaches a point just under the torso of the wearer. The back hem mirrors this point and the fabric is gathered up and into the gold lace panel to create the most dramatic and stunning back detailing I have ever seen! It is an absolute work of art. Insanely rare and hard to find in this kind of color combination and workmanship. Excellent, musuem condition and a stunning heirloom quality find. Item# C159

1920s Spanish Floss Lace Silk Shawl

Showstopping, highly collectible 1920s Spanish Floss shawl is a masterpiece and really a work of art. Completely embroidered with silk embroidery threading on a fine black silk netting base, the entire surface is an explosion of color as a riotous filed of flowers cover every inch of this beautiful piece. Marvel at the close up shots and yet it is still 100% more in person! The colors are bright and true, there are no flaws or holes. This was lovingly stored properly and looks new almost 100 years later. It is edged all the way around with a 14 inch hand knotted silk fringe border. The fringe is in excellent condition. Museum quality and very rare.

1920s Trompe l'oeil Cabochon Flapper

Really rare and unusual flapper dress that is a witty trompe l'oiel created with the most decadent of materials. These are amongst the rarest of flappers you will find as the stones used often ripped the fabric from the weight of being attached and this one is completely stable and all stones present. Made to appear as if a tasseled belt circles the waist, that entire design is completely hand beaded onto the dress. A ring of paste rhinestones are applied directly to the fabric and this turns into the centre tassel. From this remarkable "cord" dangles an amazing tassel that is only connected at the top so it swings and moves freely as you move. Under that rhinestone belt there is a second one constructed from green cabochon and tiny green glass seed beads The beading is tight and the design amazing! The neckline also is encircled in rhinestone and over one shoulder two full tassels of beads swing. A huge pink stone sits at the neckline. The dress is self is very generous as was the style of the period† and the design really remarkable - it is actually two dresses - one inner longer one that is a simple sheath and the outer to which the bead work is done. I believe this was done to add to the fullness of the barrel shape. This had to be high couture and it is devastating that it is not labeled! You can easily wear this dress either way too! The lucky girl who gets this will be very pleased indeed! It is truly a special piece

1930s 61.7 Carat Star Ruby Diamond Gold Cocktail Ring

A impressive size ruby and diamond cocktail ring. Eighteen carat white gold item features a heavily included purplish red cabochon (61.7tcw) star ruby center with old European diamond surround (approx. 3tcw).

A large art deco period cocktail ring shows beautifully. Ring size 8. Excellent.

Diameter: 1.13"
Depth: 0.63"
Weight: 25.8kg

1930s Amazing Azure Blue Silk Kimono

A stunning silk kimono made of a silk that has a stylized flower and leaf design woven directly into it! The color is an amazing mix of blue and purple and the silk has a a slight silver metallic undertone to it. This causes it to change subtly in the light and gives it a bit of a iridescent quality - very pretty and unusual! The inside is lined in that perfect 1930s lingerie† blush peach colored silk peach! It snaps to close with hidden snaps so that it creates a low, square neckline. This enables you to completely close it so that you are able to wear it as a dress or fully closed light evening coat. You can leave it loose or belt it. It is in excellent condition and absolutely gorgeous! Item# C156

1930s Bias Cut Silk Ruffle Gown

Beautiful 30s gown all cut on the bias and with a pretty floral print. The silk has a ribbed texture to it and the gown just slips on to wear. The front has a dramatic capelet attached that sits over the shoulders and follows that deep sexy V in the back. The back is absolutely amazing! It has a to the waist plunge and then sweeps to a full flared A line with a dramatic ruffled train that falls to a longer length then the front. I have shown it worn either way as it certainly could be turned around if you are brave enough. The finishes are all by hand and its a really striking and wonderful piece that weighs almost nothing and would definitely be on par with any runway piece of today. Excellent condition!

1930s Bias Cut Silk Satin Floral Gown

Decadent and beautiful silk satin in the palest mint green is the base for the stunning gown. It is completely cut on the bias and the silk is printed with a soft, romantic floral print in a creamy silver ghost grey with pale yellow shots of color hand screened to highlight the floral design (it may even be painted!). When it photos the camera really picks up the silvery tones and minimizes the lovely color - you get a stronger sense of that pale and delicate green in real life. The neckline is cut straight across with tightly inset shoulders. The back drapes and is one wide open undone keyhole! It just hooks at the neck and then the rest is left open to the waist! It's impeccably seamed - where the bodice is set into the skirting the seams peak and then swoop down to emphasize the curves of your body. Fabric has been taken and piped and worked into a thick braid that loops around the back and sits just above each hip. The skirt is cut on the bias so there are yards and yards of silk satin that moves beautifully with you as you move. Finally, but certainly not least - it has incredible balloon sleeves - just massive billowing sleeves that at their widest are a full 30" in diameter. In incredible early gown that is in excellent, extraordinary condition! Note that you could, if you dare, wear this the other way around - it is so well made it drapes perfectly either way!

1930s Bold Bias Cut Silk Floral Print Maxi

A stunning, bold silk, bias cut gown that is hand screened and printed with a bold off-white and black floral print. One of the best of these dresses I have had, it is really a beauty and in amazing condition! The neckline is slightly wide and sits just at the edge of the shoulders. It scoops and gathers at the mid neck and there is a soft shawl collar that drapes over the shoulders. It is impeccably seamed - the lower skirt is added in pointed inset seamed pieces typical of the time period and insanely hard to do on bias cut fabric. The bias cut means that there are yards and yards of silk that moves beautifully with you as you move and the gathered slightly trained skirt is just icing on the cake. That print is simply delicious and surprisingly modern and edgy for a piece of this age! Excellent condition!

1930s Cut Work Flower Summer Gown

I am in love with the dress! It's a lightweight semi sheer cotton or cotton silk mix fabric that has been cut and embroidered to create these stunningly beautiful flowers that cover the entire dress. The twenties and thirties saw some of the absolute best textiles that you can find and this gown illustrates a superb example. It is backed in the same color lining and the effect is light and airy and feminine. So romantic and whimsical it will make a wonderful dress for summer events or even a less formal wedding gown. The bodice is a simple halter with a pretty ruffle detail that circles the top of the bodice and carries down the front. Tiny straps and a gradually widening A-line skirt that goes to the floor finish this wonderful piece! A superb thirties gown and in excellent condition.

1930s Deer & Rooster Silk Under Kimono

This under kimono is mind boggling. It looks so sixties and yet it was produced in the late thirties, maybe early forties. I have the honor of helping a long term kimono collector de-accesion her collection and some of the piece I have and will be getting are exceptional and quite rare - like this one! This piece was made for the Japanese market, not for the tourist trade and is actually an under kimono. These are unusual to find in the Western market and the pattern is quite unusual.† It is hand silk screen printed with the most stunning of designs, The main body almost has a stylized British flag feel to it don't you agree? And the sleeves and edgings are amazing - stately and massive trees with deer and roosters abound. The fabric and hand print technique used make this very collectible and rare. It's finished by hand and remarkably light weight - parts of it have a light padded feel to it. The colors are vivid and true and it really is unique - I have never seen another like it!† Truly fabulous! Item# C99

1930s Ermine & Silk Velvet Evening Coat

Every once in a while you find a coat so exceptional it takes your breath away and this is one. The long sweeping lines, the inner cream silk lining that flashes that contrast of color when you move. And of course that amazing touch of ermine fur at the collar and down each sleeve! You do see these with ermine collars but this is the first I have seen with sleeves like this. They are each a bell sleeve - widening as the come to the cuff and then looping under to the inner lining so they puff out at each wrist. The collar is also extraordinary - it is set almost off shoulder and crosses over itself. It closes with huge jeweled buttons offset as was the flapper fashion. The inside is in excellent condition with no shattering. Really a killer piece and strong and wearable for years to come! Extraordinary!

Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 17î flat across the inside back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14î flat across the inside back from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19î flat across the inside back from side seam to side seam
Length: 55î from mid neck at the back to bottom hem
Sleeves: approx 22î from shoulder seam to longest point

The coat is fully lined in cream silk satin that is in excellent condition. It has a tie on the inside waist and then closes with offset rhinestone encrusted metal cut out button and loops on the outside. It has a good weight to it but is not unwieldy to wear. There is a hidden inside pocket with ruffles edge along one seam inside. The fur is in excellent condition.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML (6-8)

Item# C122

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

1930s Fine Lace & Ruffle Wedding Gown

I do not normally post wedding gowns here but this one is so perfect, rare and absolutely one of the most romantic pieces I have ever seen that I could not resist. It could absolutely be worn for a wedding or even as a summer gown. When it first arrived I almost passed on it - it was a crumpled flattened mess. I had it carefully cleaned and then spent hours steaming out everyone of those ruffles. When it was done and on the dress form I almost had tears at how much it transformed. It is extraordinarily lovely and still strong and wearable with care with no real flaws to speak of. The neck and sleeves are accented with panels of silk netting that are placed to stand out from the dress. I have put filling in the sleeves so you can see how lovely they are. The bodice skims over the upper body and the back has that wonderful row of tiny buttons. It swoops out to a wide skirt with miles of lace making it up. The back is trained and again those netted ruffles applied to highlight the shape. These where meant to float over a smaller frame so I have listed it as XS-SML but it is a bit flexible in terms of size because of the boas cut.† It is shown over a plain cream slip that is not included - you could change the color if you wish to get a different feel. Very on par with the runways for spring too! This gown is from that same estate that produced an important Worth cape and the woman who owned these pieces was both wealthy and well travelled. A truly beautiful dress and in wonderful condition! Item# E395

1930s Hand Painted Silk Crepe Kimono

One of my clients is a long term kimono collector who occasionally edits their collection and I am the lucky girl who gets to have first pick! They have been collecting for years and years so the pieces are ones you rarely, if ever even get to see anymore! This is an early Japanese, made for the tourist market, crepe silk kimono. Hand screened with hauntingly beautiful floral motifs. Each design is also hand detailed with gold paint. The print is a stunning vibrant palette of muted ocean greens, pinks and deep corals. There are fantastic to wear at home, as a light evening topper or even as a dress if you add a silk slip under it and a sash! Excellent condition

Shoulders: 24" from seam to seam
Bust: 23" from side seam to side seam, and continuing to bottom hem
Total length: 55" shoulder to bottom hem
Sleeves: 12" from shoulder seam to longest point with a 22" drop

The kimono is fully lined with red cotton in the sleeves, a solid silk through the body and a cream cotton through the upper half. It has no closures It is in excellent shape overall with some minor areas that look like old water marks here and there. I do not feel like these distract. Please do remember these were worn and loved so have a natural patina and should not be expected to be perfect! It is after all almost 100 years old!

Modern Sizing Equivalent: One Size Fits All

Item# C161

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

1930s Pink Silk and Lace Night Gown

Wonderful vintage lingerie piece that you could even wear as a pretty day dress if you add a slip underneath! Made of gorgeous silky pink rayon with a romantic and feminine print of scattered bouquets. I love the lace insets at the waist and the top of the bodice. The skirt flares out and is cut on the bias so it drapes perfectly into place when one. Each cup of the bodice is slightly gathered at the top and bottom and the double strap shoulder is fantastic! Excellent condition. Item# D428

1930s Reversible Bias Cut Silk Gown

This thirties bias cut silk crepe gown is astonishing. It is completely cut on the bias so drapes and moves to fit you perfectly from the second you slip it over your head. I am sure the deep V was originally meant to be worn at the back as was the style then but it is so well constructed you can get away with wearing it either way - if you dare to have a plunge that deep in the front that is! The silk has a pretty texture to it and the colors are vibrant and bright against the off white back drop. Lots of those fab period details - teeny gathers at the shoulders and stunning inset panels on the skirt created by more gathers at the top of each. Truly a beauty and in fantastic condition!

1930s Rhinestone Encrusted Silk Jacket

An amazing and hard to find early 1930s silk crepe jacket or top to layer over another piece that has the most amazing rhinestone and bead-work design over it's entirety! Cut to sit just at the waist this can be worn as a top or jacket. The entire jacket is studded with metal prong set rhinestones with little designs of glass tube beads mixed in. The collar and front edge are finished in a thick band of glass tube beads and rhinestones. The sleeves are cut wide and are gorgeous. It is stunning! Excellent condition! Item# S340

1930s Silk & Emroidered Metal Thread Asian Jacket

The Western world in the twenties and thirties had a great fascination with all things art deco and oriental and places like Japan began to export pieces made specifically for the tourist market. These pieces combined classic design elements of the Japanese culture with a slight western twist to the cut and colors. The embroidered jackets where amongst the most prized and this one is a stunning example. Made of a fine cream silk, it is completely covered in fine embroidery work in that is even more amazing once you realize that it is actually a metallic thread that was used. Solidly embroidered with fine hand done red stitches holding the curving metal thread in place, the pattern and design is exquisite. Truly a treasure. Excellent condition and appears unworn.

Fully lined in a cream tissue silk, it closes with silk frog knots. Hand finished

Sleeves: 12"
Drop shoulders: 27"
Bust: approx. 21.5" flat across
Waist: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 22.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 25.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# S653

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

1930s Silk Velvet & Lace Morning Robe

This is a very interesting textile. I had it looked at by someone well versed in early textile and they told me that they would guess that the color was achieved by an organic dye - it has a very unusual one to it - in certain lights it has an almost taupe brown cast to it where the light catches it - if you know how black silk velvet can have a silverish grey sheen to it when it moves this is similar but in green and taupe! The lace work is just lovely - fine mesh base with stitched edges outlines. I love how the lace is applied so carefully that the swirls and pattern become the edges of the piece against the green silk velvet! The buttons are large and lovely and it has its original tie belt. A beautiful piece that was probably meant as a roe but easily could be worn as a dress now. Wonderful condition.

1930s Silk Yarn & Netting Bias Cut Gown

Romantic and feminine thirties dress is a confection of startling choices of fabrication. The interior layer is bias cut cream silk crepe - a good weighted silk and so luxurious feeling against your skin. Attached to the bottom hem of this interior dress is two layers of a crisp white silk tulle netting. Over this inner layer is attached a body skimming netted overlay with a lace look that you realize upon inspection is actually made from an fine, almost yarn like string edged in embroidery thread to define each bit of the swirled design. This layer widens as it nears the hem and also has two crisp white layers of silk tulle attached, the tulle edging at the bottom falls slightly asymmetrical as the dress settles into place to follow your curve. A wonderful piece that is in excellent condition and so pretty!

1930s Vibrant Coral Printed Silk Kimono

A stunning silk kimono with one of the best prints I have seen on a kimono! It is a bright and vibrant combination of corals, tangerines, reds and shots of greens, yellows and blues. Flowers and prints cover the entire piece and it is just absolutely lovely. The silk also has a diamond look texture worked into for a little extra visual interest. The colors are so flattering to a wide variety of skin tones! The inside is lined in a red tissue silk so it feels heavenly on! It snaps to close under the front edgings which will allow you to be able to wear it as a dress or a light evening coat, or you can leave it loose or belt it. It is in excellent condition and so pretty!

Shoulder: 23" from seam to seam
Bust: 21" from side seam to side seam and continuing to bottom hem
Total length: 49" from mid-neck to bottom hem
Sleeves: 26" drop & 12" from shoulder seam to hem

The kimono cut will allow this to fit a variety of sizes but please check the measurements above to be sure. The interior lining is a red tissue silk that lines most of the interior and runs through the sleeves. The bottom portion is lined in the same fabric as the exterior. There are hidden snaps at the front that were added at a later date but allow it to fully close! Note there are some small tea colored marks at the front - please supersize the photos to see.

Item# C163

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

1940s Amazing B&W Crepe Swing Dress

The exterior of the dress is fashioned out of light black silk crepe that has a slight waffle weave feel to it. The fabric is amazing and the cut of this dress is really astounding and as good as it looks off the hanger it is more amazing on a body! It has a high neckline with a† almost cowl neck, draped collar with a pointed front. The top skims over the bust and has little gathers and pointed seam work just under the bust to emphasize. The sleeves are really amazing - they are huge and cut to pouf and balloon out over the wrist - you can see where later designers like Biba and Ossie Clark got their inspiration from! The waist starts high under the bust line and skim over the waist and swings out over the hips in a delicious swoop. It has an attached back belt made of the same fabric with a slide buckle. even the buckle is special - it has a bit of a art deco feel with a two slanted sides. It is only upon the closest of inspection that you realize the genius of the dress. Those patterns worked into the sleeve appear to be screened on. They are actually fabric that is edged so finely and placed into the black that you don't realize they are a separate piece of fabric till you see the back. And each of those designs - they are the finest hand embroidered bits! Truly a piece of history and a work of art - I strongly feel this in an unlabeled piece of the highest design - possibly couture. A superb example of this time period and in excellent condition.

Sleeves: approx 23"
Shoulders: approx 14" (no true defined seam
Bust: 18î flat across from side seam to side seam the inside dress
Waist: 14.5î flat across from side seam to side seam the inside dress
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam the inside dress
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 32" from waist to hem

Unlined and slips over the head, It closes at the side with a series of snaps and each cuffs has hidden snaps. The belt is attached and has an early plastic buckle. There is one repaired pinhole on the back hip near the snap side opening. It looks old and has been left. It does not detract at all - I am just being very picky and accurate. The color is a true black - note that in very bright sun the fabric is starting to take a purpleish cast near the arms and other areas where skin would have touched it. In normal or darker light it present as perfect. If not for this I would have priced it several hundred dollars more as it is remarkable.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML (2-6)

Item# D461

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

1940s Amazing Curved Button Check Suit

The look of this suit is so shockingly modern it is easy to see why current designers consistently look to the past for inspiration. This lightweight, fine wool fabric suit is left unlined and is very easy to wear. Sometimes suit of this era can be very restrictive and heavy but not this one! The fabric is a deep deep navy with a red double line check. The jacket has the perfect strong shoulder and nips in at the waist with a little flared hip peplum. Each sleeve is cuffed. The skirt is fitted through the waist and hips and then glides into a soft feminine A-line. The button detail is of course what absolutely make this set though - the jacket curves over to one side and back towards the other. Decorative buttons on the skirt match up exactly to where the ones on the jacket end. It is very Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen in feel but is the original thing! Amazing condition and truly fabulous!

1940s Amazing Fitted Silk Lilli Ann Suit

Three things define this wonderful Lilli Ann suit. First the cut - it is impeccable and has the type of workmanship and seamed pattern work that one rarely sees today. I count† eight panels through the body of the jacket alone and four of these have additional seaming worked into them to form that phenomenal silhouette. Second is the actual design and detail work - those panels of flat piped and softly gathered fabric that run all around the jacket just above the waist and are used again on that fantastic collar! The point of the collar is picked up subtly in the notched cuffs. This one is meant to be all curves and femaleness - the shoulders offset the nipped in waist and even the skirt rounds over the hips and then dips back in at the hem rather then swing out into an A-line. Def a cut for a bombshell of a girl. Finally the fabric itself is a masterpiece - it is a vertical woven silk that seems to have an almost metallic feel and texture to it but without being stiff or heavy in any way. Soft greys mix with a pale pale blue - if the blue does not come across in the photos you will just be that much happier in real life! Really an amazing suit and early Lilli Ann that seems to have walked through a time machine condition wise! The workmanship of this set is impeccable. Stunning and in excellent condition!

Jacket:
Shoulders: 15.5î from seam to seam
Bust: 19î from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14î from side seam to side seam
Total length: 22î from mid neck at the back to bottom hem
Sleeves: 23î from shoulder seam to longest point

Skirt:
Waist: 12.5î from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19î from side seam to side seam
Length: 30î from the top waist seam to bottom hem

Both pieces are fully lined in a nude color silky rayon. The jacket closes with fabric covered buttons and the skirt has a side metal zipper and button at the waist. Lots of wonderful detail - hand finishes, proper dressmaker button holes and lots of immaculate seaming.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML (4-6)

Item# DD643

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

1940s Amazing Full Sequin Pin Up Dress

Absolutely exquisite early bombshell pin up dress that just had to be owned by the most fabulous of girls! Rarely have I seen such a sizzling early piece like this one! Silk crape has been given the all out glamour treatment with squiggling rows of sequins applied from top to bottom. They are applied in stacked little rows so you get two effects - one that wonderful gloss and shimmer from the sheen of the sequins themselves, and two - an almost 3D effect from the opulent use of them! It's cut to follow your curves with an oddly generous waist measurement - works perfect for girls now who don't like to cinch with undergarments like they use to! I think the detail that knocks it out of the park has to be that insane "flame" neckline - a jagged flame like designs runs around the entire collar of the dress. I can't help but think that had to be made for the stage or the movies - its just that glam! Wonderful, rare piece and in excellent condition.

Bust: 19" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Bodice Length: 15" from shoulder to waist seam
Skirt Length: 25" from waist seam to the bottom of the hem

The dress is unlined, the base is made of black silk crepe. It closes with a long side metal zipper. hand finished and the sequins are hand applied.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# E322

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

1940s Amazing Printed Silk Swing Dress

Really one of the most amazing forties dresses I have had. Its made of a fine silk - think Hermes scarf type silk. It has an amazing design screened onto the silk - It has a dragon scale feel to it - for some reason I think of dragons every time I look at it. The accent details are stunning loops and swirls of stylised flowers and vines with little floral details scattered about. I am not sure if I have captured the subtle use of a pale pink that highlights some of the floral details - A pale pale pink has been screened here and there. Really a work of art! That pink is carried through with a solid fabric in a blush pink added to the interiors of the hip pockets and it also backs that wonderful panel at the back. The cut is classic pin-up femme fatale! The skirt is long and deliciously lean. Pockets are set on each hip and constructed to sit out and emphasize the hourglass shape. The bodice is cut full with sleeves that narrow though to the cuffs. The back has an extra panel of fabric - again used cleverly to emphasize every curve. Its labelled and exquisitely made. The lucky girl who gets this will be very pleased indeed! It is truly a special piece

1940s Anna Miller Silk & Lace Gown

This is a gorgeous and extremely well made 1940s gown that is labeled Anna Miller Original. Early on, this label was designed by a Hollywood costume designer Earl Luick with Bill Blass brought in as an assistant in the late 40s and then went on to head the label till it was merged and became the Maurice Rentner label. I have many Blass pieces and I have to tell you that you can see his influence in this piece and I would suspect it was made at some point while he was there. The construction is extraordinary. There is a proper grosgrain waisting inside so secure the gown perfectly. The under skirt is a fine silk and edged in a band on tulle. The over skirt has an immense amount of fabric - yards and yards of it really. The entire exterior layer is made of soft machine lace with pretty flat piped bands of satin circling at 4" intervals through the entire skirt. The top is cut simple and perfect with a pretty piped detail ringing the scooped neckline and wonderful capped sleeves. Really a fantastic piece and in excellent condition.

1940s Back Peplum Sequin Crepe Top

An amazing early 1940s silk moss crepe top in basic black that has the most amazing sequin detailing! Sequins loop and twist over each shoulder with black silk net that allows for a peek of skin in between the design. The peplum at the waist appears to wrap over and be caught up in a wonderful tightly spaced cluster of the same sequins. The back is really exceptional - it has a marvelous pleated and curved panel of fabric that trails down the lower back. All hand applied sequins. Stunning and in excellent condition! Item# S347

1940s Blue & White Chiffon Joker Print Novelty Dress

This wonderful little dress is so light and easy to wear. It just slips over the head, zips to the side and then simply falls into place and you belt it at the waist for extra shape. The fabric is a pretty rayon chiffon with an unusual novelty print over its surface. At first glance you see the various sized circle print but then you notice the little deco 'jokers' nestled in among the dots. The bodice is cut loose and easy and the neck line has an attached scarf detail with a little bit of pleating to highlight it and the sleeves are just a suggestion. It buttons down the front with rhinestone capped buttons. The skirt flares out and the lightness of the fabric gives it lots of fullness and movement with you move. It is cut to be generous but in theory even a smaller girl can wear it as the feather light fabric allows you to really cinch and gather it through the waist as needed without adding bulk. It weighs ounces and is a very pretty 1940s piece. Excellent condition with two small notes to review below.

Unlined and closes with a side painted metal zipper. Buttons at the front. Has its original slip buckle belt to cinch in the waist - note the belt shows signs of wear on the buckle and is missing the fabric that goes across the center rod, has some crack in the backing and shows as a darker color then the dress as you can see in the photos. The top rhinestone int he button has darkened and the second last has lost its rhinestone. Hand finished

Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: to 18" 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: 28" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D582

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

1940s Blue Striped Collar Day Dress

I love forties dresses and this one is amazing! The color alone is just outstanding - this would have been hand dyed to get it to this color and for it to have survived all this time with no fading is amazing! The color was very hard to capture but the close up of the label is the best example. The fabric is cut mostly on the bias and I love the way the top portion buttons and the contrasting striping. The waist nips in and pretty pleats sit at each hip. The skirt is fairly full and swingy. It is made of a cotton linen mix with the texture and look of a fine linen. Hand finishes. Just amazing and in excellent condition

1940s Button Detail Black Wiggle Dress

This dress is amazing! The detail and workmanship is extraordinary. Made of a black wool it is fitted with long lean lines. The sleeves each end in a zipper and originate from a rounded shoulder. The neckline is simple and the bodice nips in at the waist. The skirt is also fitted and just below the knee. What makes it interesting are the horizontal seam details with big jet buttons - it gives the appearance that the dress actually unbuttons in sections - though of course this is all decorative. It is just wonderful and unusual - a really great LBD! Excellent condition!

Shoulders: no defined seam
Sleeves: approx 21"
Bust: 18" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14.5" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 27" from waist at the back to bottom hem

The dress is unlined and closes with a back metal zipper. The original belt is present and in good condition - except the fabric is coming loose from the buckle. It is included and the belt is sold as found. The dress itself is in excellent condition with no issues to note.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS (2-4)

Item# D358

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

1940s Check Dress w Cape

This is everything you want in a 1940s piece, it's a fitted, sexy and made of checked wool number that is out of this world! It has that perfect understated, yet extremely dramatic line that pieces in the forties seemed to walk with ease. The dress is a almost dolman sleeve with rounded and slightly paddd shoulders. It buttons with little navy early plastic buttons and then nips in dramatically in at the waist The side pockets are very full and exaggerated - in fact the maker ran the side metal zip under on pocket as to not interrupt the fullness of the line! The skirt is long and lean with just a hint of an A-line shape. This has one added extra element though - the original capelet complete with a edging of hanging black silk balls along the edge. The capelet snaps into place with hidden under the collar snaps! Labeled Tall Togs (love that name!) and it is in excellent condition!

1940s Claire McCardell Att. Playsuit

Did you just die a little? I did too when I first saw this! My client swears it is Claire McCardell and I find it hard to disagree. It does not have a McCardell tag present however so is priced accordingly, if that tag was there this would be several hundred dollars higher! It's an extraordinary piece and an absolute wonderful, unusual design that really adds to the conviction that this is indeed a McCardell piece. Wonderfully full puffed style bloomer bottoms are striped in cream and red on cotton. Each leg has an elastic - that elastic and the flat knife pleats at the waist help create that fantastic, full shape! The bodice is cut to fit and one whole side buttons up in a precise, tight row of buttons. One tie is short and hooks into place and the other extra extra long and ties. Absolute amazing piece of fashion and of history! Excellent, unworn condition.

I have added some pictures so you can see some McCardell pieces that are similar in structure (all are in museum collections). Most telling is the dress - it's the same striping fabric and plain cream fabric on the top - I would imagine that this is from that same collection!

1940s Claudia Young Silk Wiggle Dress

Really an amazing and strong styled forties dress. With the Miu Miu collection coming for fall and its strong forties inspired silhouettes, you can bet great originals are going to get as scarce as scarce can be. It is made of a fine silk - think Hermes scarf type silk. It has an amazing design screened onto the silk -paisley and fine filigree design all in muted blues and greens. The accent details are stunning and the print alone is really a work of art! The cut is classic pin-up femme fatale and all Claudio Young - her dresses are all this silhouette - a strong shoulder created by a pleat type detail that goes over the edge of the shoulder but is fabric with no shoulders pads needed! The skirt is long and deliciously lean but is cut on the bias so moved and drapes to fit the girl wearing it. I love how the waist gathers almost like a fake sarong but centered right at the lower stomach - this really emphasizes the hourglass shape. The bodice is cut full with sleeves that narrow though to the cuffs. It is just exquisitely made. The lucky girl who gets this will be very pleased indeed! It is truly a special piece. Item# D319

1940s Completely Fringed Silk Crepe Top

An amazing and hard to find early 1940s silk crepe topper that completely covered with rows of silk fringe! I wish I could put video up so you can see how fantastically this moves! Cut to sit just at the waist this one zips to close making it a great and versatile piece that can be worn as a top or jacket. The entire jacket, including the sleeves has rows of applied bands of that wonderful fringing.It is stunning! Excellent condition! Item# S337

1940s Crisp Printed Cotton Hostess Gown

I think this might be the best forties hostess piece I have ever had. First and foremost on this dress is the spectacular fabric used - it is that wonderful crisp cotton that you only seem to get in older vintage pieces. Very finely woven and light but with a crispness to it that helps keep the shape. This is then screened with a gorgeous geometrical striping set to form little diamonds that cover the dress from top to bottom. The front zips low into the skirt at the front and a tie belt allows you to cinch in the waist as you wish. I love the simple cap sleeves and the fabric detailing at the neck. A bit of flat black ribbon highlights the inset neck that is made of the same fabric set the opposite direction. The skirt is to the floor ans wonderfully wide - there is actually yards and yards of that gorgeous fabric in there. Excellent condition and appears to have been worn little if at all. Item# D420

1940s Dotted Day Novelty Swing Dress

This forties day dress is just fabulous! Its made of s silk that is light weight and drapes well.† love the screened print - it has a snowflake feel with little blue & red dots with screened "flakes" in each. These are on a soft grey backdrop with a scattering of white "flakes" all through! Its just stunning! The cut is that classic soft, bloused forties cut with a belt to cinch in and define the waistline. The skirt is made of long vertical panels of silk all pieced together perfectly - this creates a lot of movement and swing/ The top is loose and comfortable to wear. I love the fabric covered buttons - they just do not make buttons like that anymore! It appears unworn and is in superb condition!

1940s Dramatic Silk Crepe Swing Dress

Fantastic and dramatic forties swing dress with a strong shoulder detail! The dress is made of silk moss crepe so has a wonderful drape and hang to it. It is seamed to perfection - I love the angled and curves seams that flare out just under the waist in particular! The skirt is long and lean and has a hem made of sharp knife pleats - it adds a kicky bit of movement to the dress! The shoulders are cut round and padded underneath a la Joan Crawford. The workmanship to create that yellow band all inset with black and yellow 3D leaves and that center flower -all out of fabric! The sleeves end just under the elbow and are cut the same width. Really super forties dress and in excellent condition!

1940s Dramatic Silk Taffeta Peplum Suit

A true femme fatale, film noir 1940s suit with the most dramatic and beautiful lines! The skirt is cut long and lean with the classic forties A-line silhouette that hugs the hips and then flares out at its hem. The jacket is an amazing feat of construction and drape. A silk taffeta in a deep glossy black is used - this fabric choice allows for a bit of structure and for the drape that the designer was after able to be achieved. The shoulders are lightly padded and round. The sleeves long and slim as the near each cuff. The bodice is cut full as was the fashion with a nipped in waist for that perfect seductive Va-Voom feel. Around the hips wraps a swag of fabric that encases the wearer and explodes into a dramatic draping along one side on the most exaggerated of forms. It is sexy and stunning! Truly a find and in excellent condition. Item# D453

1940s Embroidered Hungarian Dress

Love this early bohemian feel Hungarian embroidered piece that is really fabulous and quite special. You often see blouses but to see an entire dress is a much rarer thing. It is a lovely combination of red and black yarn stitching on light cotton base. The shoulder has extensive stitching so that it has a ruched and gathered feel and the embroidered patterns run in bold panels down each arm and through the dress. A second pattern in a white yarn adds a nice compliment and secondary pattern. The embroidery work looks like it is a combination of hand and machine work. The top can be worn on or off the shoulder and the skirt has three tiers all set atop one another. Its a super, unusual and pretty piece that is in great condition! Item# D440

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

1940s Exceptional Pink & Netting Top

Stunning and unusual pale pink silk crepe top (it is a bit pinker then the dusty rose color the photos show) It nips in at the waist and has a bit of a flared peplum. The shoulders and cap sleeves are made entirely of 3D embroidered pink silk netting. The little pointed collar is edged in a blue grosgrain ribbon. Absolutely lovely and fabulous!

1940s Jacques Griffe Haute Couture Draped Black SIlk Satin Dress

Jacques Griffe was considered to be one of the great French couturiers and was one of very few designers capable of the complete design process from sketching to draping, cutting, and sewing the garments. He training began under the tutelage of a local tailor, and was refined in Paris, when he worked for Madeleine Vionnet from 1936-39. Vionnet exposed him to unique ways of cutting, and techniques in draping that enhanced the curves of the female body. It is an interesting note that while working under Vionnet he also learned her technique of draping and cutting the fabric using a miniature, jointed, mannequin. He embraced that method and like Vionnet, he designed by draping fabric directly onto these small mannequins for the rest of his career. In fact, when he launched his own fashion house in 1941, she actually presented him with a wooden mannequin as a gift. A ready to wear line followed in 1947 and he continued to design until his atelier closed in 1968.

This is a rare and early design by Griffe and would have been made entirely by hand in his Paris atelier. The dress showcases some of his signature design elements. The strapless bodice was a favored silhouette and the rich silk satin used for its construction had enough weight to allow him to drape and cut it to form the exact shape he was after. The richness of the fabric also adds a layer of texture and richness to the gown. The bodice is strapless and fitted to the bust. Inside, it is boned and has small front padding inset by hand so the wearer can forego undergarments there if she wished. An attached panel in the same fabric gracefully curves up and around the neck and then trails down the back. This was a signature of Griffe during this time period and was copied endlessly by others. The skirt wraps around itself and then curves gently upwards at the back where the ends overlap. A wonderful example of his work. Excellent condition

The dress is unlined through the skirt and lined in a fine black silk through the bodice. There is wire boning and padding inside the bodice interior. The dress is entirely made by hand as Haute Couture demands. The silk satin shows nothing more then normal patina for its age. There are no significant pulls or scuffs.

Bust: to 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 10" from top of dress to waist
Skirt: 42.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2726

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

1940s Jantzen Gathered Pin Up Swimsuit

Super sexy, early deco 1940s Jantzen swimsuit that can double as a play suit for a really brave girl. It's made from a high grade early nylon like fabric that one only finds from this time period - probably the most cutting edge swimwear fabric in its day! It is cut in that classic pin-up bombshell style - all curves and sexiness missed with girl next door innocence. The top is halter style, with two straps and a built in foundation and sweetheart neckline. You can wear this one with or without the straps. A pretty row of gathering creates a ruffle-like detail that highlights the neckline and the body of the suit is completely gathered through the back and that same ruffle look detail goes down the front - I love it - totally pin-up! The back is a panel of elastic gathers allowing for maximum comfort and a perfect fit. Amazing and a gorgeous color too! Excellent condition.

1940s Lace Illusion Peplum Crepe Dress

This dress has an unexpected sexy side to it. The front is amazingly pretty - the entire top of the bodice has a stunning cotton cut out lace applique that has been done in huge stylized circles. This is backed with nude netting to gives the appearance of being far barer then the wearer actually is. The waist nips in and the skirt is cut in a slim pencil silhouette. Over the hips lies a peplum in the same black silk crepe. The back is where the true sexiness lies. It buttons at the small of the back in a row of tightly spaced buttons and above that the nude netting opens to an almost inverted long diamond shape that is caught up at the base of the neck by a hook and eye. These leaves the back exposed and with the nude netting on either side to the lace looks like it is lying bare on your skin! Excellent condition and well made!

Shoulder: no defined seams
Bust: 18î flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13î flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 17" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to hem

The top is backed in a nude netting and the skirt is unlined. It closes with a low back row of fabric covered buttons and fabric loops. Above that the back is open to the neck where a there is a hook & eye.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML (4-6)

Item# D454

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

1940s Morsam Multi Color Striped Dress

I love love love these striped Morsom pieces! They are just absolute prime examples of the best of this era. The colors, the care in lining up the stripes, the fabric - all perfection! This on is really unusual as it is a inverted and dramatic extra swingy A line shape - it basically cascades out from the shoulders. The short sleeves are cuffed and the striping all meets at an inverted angle along the seams. The fabric is a silk taffeta with ribbons of rilky rayon worked directly into the fabric. The front huge slanted pockets are just fabulous - they are the exact right touch to finish this wonderful piece. I have shown it cinched but you could off course wear it tented and free as well! Killer forties dress and in excellent condition.