1970s La Mendola Silk Jersey Jumpsuit & Silk Chiffon Overlay

These jumpsuit from the La Mendola label are among my very favorites of all of their pieces. They have such style and fit so fabulously that I feel they are a must have in a vintage wardrobe. The La Mendola label is highly collectible and was sought after, not only now but also back in its heyday. The duo behind the label were designing in Rome for "It girls" like Elizabeth Taylor and Rita Hayworth and countless other celebrities and jet-setters. They were located in Italy and their atelier closed in 1974 giving us a date on this set just prior to that. They mainly produced long dresses in this same silk jersey fabric, but also did small runs of these chic and easy-to-wear jumpsuits. The simplicity of the cut belies the huge drama and impact that it has  once on the body. This one is made from a bright, custom designed print, in shades of citrus screened onto the silk jersey of the jumpsuit and also onto the silk chiffon over-lay. The jumpsuit has a high neck, wide legs and a simple cut through the bodice and sleeves and just slips  on and zips. Over this is goes a silk chiffon tabard that snaps into place along the top of one shoulder and under the arm. Together the are absolutely beautiful. Overall excellent condition with two tiny flaws to note below.

Unlined and closes at the back with a hand set painted metal zipper. There is no label but this is absolutely a La Mendola as I have had this exact same print with a label in the past and similar jumpsuit sets. There is a teeny tiny area of thinning to the silk on the tabard that sits low at the front. It is strong and stable and you really have to look for it while it's laid out flat. At the back of one leg at the hem there is a bit of discoloration and a small, faint water stain - again you see it when laid out but once on its not something you notice when its on.

Jumpsuit
Sleeves: approx. 24"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 15.5-17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5-20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from neck to hem
Inseam: 27.5"

Overlay
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist to Hem: open
Length: 52.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2244

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