1970s Joy Stevens Big Sleeve Tie Waist Red 'Graduation' Jersey Dress

The designer of this adorable little red dress is Joy Stevens who is one of my favorites that were working out of California during this time period. Her designs ruled the night clubs of the seventies and have a sexy but easy to wear feel to them. They were the type of thing you just threw on, looked fabulous and could dance until 3 in without worrying about how they would hold up.

This dress is especially interesting because it is easily identifiable as a take on the Ossie Clark 'graduation' dress. The lines and cut of it are almost identical in feel but  simplified to a fair degree. Still a great way to get that look without the hefty price tag of an actual Ossie. Her version is made from a wash and go friendly synthetic red jersey that still has great drape and has the added bonus of being very easy to travel with. All of her best pieces were made from these jerseys and this fabric choice allowed her dresses to both move and wear well. This dress has a V front edged with a panel of the same jersey. This extends into ties that wrap around you and tie at the back to give you some the shape. The skirt flows from the shoulders to the floor in a widening cascade of fabric. The volume through the body and skirt is balanced by huge sleeves that puff up above each elasticized wrist.Throw it on for day with flats or wear sky high heels at night - it works well for either. Excellent condition.

Unlined and slips over the head to wear with attached ties at the waist. Each cuff has elastic at the wrist. The flowing silhouette and waist tie should fit a variety of figures and sizes. The fabric has some stretch

Sleeves: 24"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: to 2-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: open and can be defined by the attached tie
Hips: open
Length: 57" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# DD3443

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture.

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