The back of this dress is delicious! It has the most wonderful open row of sweet black ribbon bows that seemingly catch the two sides of lace together while allowing the nude silk lining to peep through. This also allows the scalloped edges of the lace to be really seen. It has a touch of a boudoir feel to it as well giving it a subtle sexiness! The front is beautifully cut - the lace cascades over an inner silk crepe lining and falls form the shoulder It is cut on a slightly wider A-line then the slightly more narrow inner sheath of silk. The nude lining gives the illusion of nudity and adds to that intimate feel and femininity. It is a wonderful and well made piece! Excellent, seemingly unworn condition!

Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam with stretch
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam with stretch
Hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam with stretch
Length: 52" from neck to bottom hem

The inner dress is made off silk crepe and closed with a painted metal zipper. The lace overlay is attached at the shoulders, neck and arms and it closes over the inner dress with hidden snaps under the bows down the back.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# E463

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 dress is so pretty but unfortunately is not perfect. I pulled it from my archives and only when I began to photo it did I realize that the fabric had faded. It was probably n a shop window at some point and over the years parts of the pink have turned to a slight yellowish tone down one side. It is such a pretty and well made dress that I decided to list it anyway and perhaps a younger girl could get creative with it or even wear it as is since it is pretty subtle in person. One could probably even add a seam or tack in a fold to hide it. Either way it is too pretty to discard! Three tiny straps sit atop each shoulder and the bodice is fitted with a pretty rounded edge and low back. I love how the lace is set to peek above the top edge! The skirt is spectacular and has built in tulle - I did not add any crinoline under it! It is cut to sit fairly flat at the front and then the side and back pouf! Wonderful piece despite its small discoloration!

Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam with an A to small B cup
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from shoulder to the waist
Skirt: 24" from waist to hem

Fully lined in a pink grosgrain like fabric and the skirt is has an additional tulle layer built in with well finished seam work. It closes with a back painted metal zipper and there is a waist stay that closes with hook & eye. The bodice is lightly boned. It is very well made and a good quality dress but does have a faded area down one side. Please be sure to read the full description as it is listed at a price that makes it a final sale.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS

Item# E465

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 dress is so fantastic I find it hard to begin and it is almost impossible to find these studded dresses from the 1940s anymore! The cut is simple in that perfect feminine forties kind of way† - the two tone bodice, simple short sleeves with just a bit of pretty gathering near the cuffs and a swingy A-line skirt. But that is where the simplicity ends. Ink black stretch silk crepe has been studded with tiny, fine brass studs that would have been individually placed in prong settings and then hammered flat by hand! The pattern on the front is a superb with the neckline detailing ringed in a frame of studs set to suggest a leaf like design. The dress is entirely covered with studs from shoulder to hem front and back! One of the most striking and unusual 1940s dresses I have ever had. Wonderful!

Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18î flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14î flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19î flat across from side seam to side seam of the lining
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 27" from bottom of the waist band to hem

Unlined and closes with a side painted metal zipper. What looks like a small stain on the front is actually where the fabric is beginning to thin. It is stable but will go eventually. It is far worse in the photos then in person but I have priced it accordingly. You could probably tack in a pleat or fold to cover it if wished but that is best done on the actual girl who buys it so it drapes right on her frame so is priced with this in mind and will be sent as found and noted. I see no missing studs.

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

Item# D469

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 stupendous little 1950s suit with a Rafi New York label. The fabric is just wonderful and the photos do not convey how it really is incorporated into the design as an element to how the suit sits and looks. It has enough weight to it to take advantage of its slightly sculptural qualities while still remaining light weight when on. The skirt skims the hips and is cut in that classic 50s pencil skirt. The jacket is beautiful with to the elbow sleeves that stay straight and wide. The shoulders are rounded and I love the little notches at the waist. The closure at the front is the star of this suit though - each button is a round little ball of smoky grey rhinestones. Each of the three buttonholes are finished and have a little swoop of stiffened fabric to decorate! Absolutely beautiful! Excellent, appears unworn condition

Jacket
Sleeves: 18"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 18" flat across the back from seam to seam
Waist: 17" flat across the back from seam to seam
Length: 19" from neck to hem

Skirt
Waist: 13" flat across the back from seam to seam
Hips: 20" flat across the back from seam to seam
Length: 25" from waist to hem

Both pieces are fully lined in a black silk. The skirt closes with a side metal zipper and hook & eye at the waist. The jacket closes with the round smoky rhinestone set buttons at the front and a hidden fabric covered snap under the top corner of the front edge. Proper finished button holes. Hans set lining.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML

Item# D472

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 the simplicity of those darling day dress from the 1940s. It is cut fairly simple and uses the weave of the fabric to create the visual interest. It has a classic silhouette with a below the knee skirt that softy falls over the hips and into a gentle A-line. The waist nips in and the bodice is cut on rounded seams with no defined shoulders. The sleeves are cuffed and the collar high and pointed. I love the row of buttons that runs down the front with the backed detailing running behind them! A slanted pocket sits on each hip with pretty seaming detailing worked into the hip area above and behind each pocket flap. Very chic and in excellent condition.

Shoulders: 14"
Sleeves: 13"
Bust: to 18î flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13î flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19î flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 28" from waist band to hem

Unlined and closes with a the front buttons. The pockets are functional and made of the same fabric inside as well.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# D373

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 adore this bright and cheerful two piece set. It is by Tricosa who was a higher end brand stocked in good French shops and was an early easy to wear, easy to travel synthetic of very good quality. This set is especially pretty with is blue, white and pink mosaic palette. The dress is classic with a scooped neck and slightly swingy skirt. I love the ribbing that is set at the neck and also on the sleeves and waist of the jacket. The stripes are the perfect contrast! The jacket is adorable - short-sleeved, cropped and with a button front. Together they are darling, but they will also work well separately! A really lovely set! Excellent condition

Jacket
Shoulders: 13.5"
Bust: 16-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 11-13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 20"

Dress
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist seam
Skirt: 28" from waist to hem

Both pieces are unlined. The dress closes with a back painted metal zipper and the jacket closes with fabric covered buttons down the front. Includes a belt that is not pictured

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# D474

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 dress is amazing! Constructed of a deep blue crepe rayon with all the edges backed in a pale lavender crepe so you get just a hint of that secondary color and it also really emphasizes the design. The skirt is cut on an A-line with a little side kick pleat with a panel of that lavender inside so that when you move you get a flash of color. The neckline is cut with just a hint of side "collars" and the sleeves are to the elbow and each ends in a fabulous cuff detail with a huge button. The start detail n this dress is of course that row of huge buttons - all decorative but with the illusion that it buttons into place. Each massive button is set n a cut loop of fabric behind it. It is just wonderful and unusual - a really great and unusual swing dress! Excellent condition!

Shoulders: 15"
Sleeves: 15"
Bust: 17" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5" from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 22" from waist at the back to bottom hem

The dress is unlined and closes with a side metal zipper. The buttons down the front are decorative only.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML

Item# D476

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

What is fabulous about this piece is that it is an amazing dress that can double as an evening coat giving you twice the styling options! Made of a pale green silk satin it is wonderfully constructed. The inside seams are so well finished you could almost wear this inside out! It has a waistless sheath like shape and I love the offset closure. It opens completely hence the ability to wear it as a coat or dress. The entire front has an edging of hand places pieces that are each edged with beads and faux pearls. This ia repeated on each cuff. A really lovely and wonderful item! Excellent condition!

Shoulders: 14" across
Sleeves: 23" long
Bust: 19.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 19" from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Length: 33" from mid to bottom hem

Fully lined in the same fabric as the exterior and it closes with hidden fabric covered snaps under the beaded edge. It is cut full through the body but you do need to check the shoulders

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 the simplicity of this dress due to it being constructed out of a black silk but having fairly simple lines. The skirt is dropped and starts low on the hip and is very full. It has a built in tulle underskirt that creates that dramatic shape! Having it sit so low give the illusion of an even smaller bodice and waist and hip as the ye is tricked to look down. The waist is nipped in but defined by vertical seaming. The buttons are each hand covered in the same fabric and each buttonhole is finished properly in tradition dressmaking fashion. I love the little rounded Peter Pan collar and the to the elbow sleeves. This dress had no label but i am sure it must have had one at some point - it is just too well made not to have had! Very chic and in excellent condition.

Shoulders: 15"
Sleeves: 17"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Natural waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam at the piping - open below
Bodice: 21" from neck to dropped waist
Skirt: 18" from dropped waist to hem

Unlined with an attached inner tulle crinoline in the low skirt. It closes with the front buttons and hook & eye at the waist. The buttonholes are all properly finished and it has an overall high end feel. It appears that the back seams where let out at some point and in certain light there is the faint tell tale lines. Very slight creases near the elbow that stayed in the fabric even after cleaning

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML

Item# D477

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

In person this piece has so much depth and texture - it is really quite amazing! And when you take into account that all those beads, gold threading and rhinestones would have been hand placed and hand sewn it is astonishing! The base fabric is a pale nude silk net layered over the inner rich, heavy cream silk lining. The top layer has beaded over little bursts done in gold metallic thread to form and cover the entire dress. All of the bead-work are aurora borealis so they have a beautiful iridescent sheen to them. Interspersed amongst these are golden yellow hued glass crystals. The hem, neck and cuffs have a thicker, tightly spaces ringing of work so give them extra detailing! It presents a much more gold hued garment in person then how it photoed - it is really quite incredible how it catches the light!! I love the classic Twiggy sixties era silhouette of it - its that perfect shift shape that makes a girl look all legs! unlabeled but constructed extremely well so I am sure it would have had one at some point!! Excellent condition!

Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 38" from neck to hem

Under the outer netting it has a full interior dress made of a heavy weight, rich cream silk, that is then fully lined in a cream tissue silk. It closes with a back painted metal zipper on the inner dress and another one on the outer dress.Perhaps the occasional bead or sequin missing but I see no apparent bare areas.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS

Item# E468

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 gorgeous cocktail dress that is a pretty combination of lace and a unique design through the sleeves detail. A beautiful black lace covers an interior dress made of a silver grey silk. This combination is stunning and really highlight the lace's design. The skirt is full with that fullness created by a series of pleats set around the waist. I styled it over a light crinoline (not included) but it does have volume even without as it has a light tulle underskirt built in. The waist nips in and the bodice is fitted to create that classic fifties silhouette. A lovely scooped back and front are the perfect balance. I love the sleeves - they are so unusual. Soft pleats are gathered up and under each cap sleeve to create a high capped bit of volume. It's an unusual touch and give the dress a very feminine feel. Very chic, unusual and in excellent condition.

The silk layer under the lace acts as the lining. The skirt has an additional layer of an attached tulle underskirt with dressmakers paper in the upper hip area only. The interior hem of the skirt has a stiffening panel within it so it falls perfectly and has a bit more structure. Each cap sleeve has a net lining. It closes with a back, painted metal zipper. The belt is original and is in good condition. The backing of the belt has started to deteriorate and the lace is starting to go on the buckle but it still present well.

Shoulders: approx 15" but no true defined seams
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from neck to top of the waist band
Skirt: 31" from top of the waist band to hem

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E469

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 an incredible dress that is completely covered in a three dimensional design done by hand with glossy black sequins and bead work. The base of the dress is a knit that has had ever square inch completely covered by hand. The overall effect is amazing. The dress is very heavy off the body as all that work is glass beads in different shapes and it is so heavily applied. I love the diamond print that has been created and how the black catches the light but still manages to stay somewhat subtle. The sleeves are a chiffon and that gives the dress a nice bit of airiness that offsets the dense beadwork. It is cut to skim over the body. The garment is very high quality and in excellent condition. This level of hand work is virtually impossible to find in a modern garment!

Shoulders: approx 15"
Sleeves: 22"
Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 38" from shoulder to hem

Fully lined through the body with a black silky rayon, with the sleeves left unlined. It closes with a back, painted metal zipper. Each sleeve has elastic at the cuff.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# E470

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 an incredible couture level 1950s dress that has the avant garde "sack dress" lines. The textile t is made of is just amazing - a truly beautiful silk that has that rich, luxe weight to it that only the best, highest quality silks have. Onto this is a velvet fused design suggesting spray of young buds. The color and play in texture is stunning. The dress is a fitted under dress with a full. voluminous overlay attached attached at the neckline. It buses and puff over the bodice with a flat bow to give a suggestion of a waist. The back is cut almost as a square panel if fabric. It only retains it hotel boutique label. Hotels did their own customs designs for tourists during this time and also brought in pieces from the great designers. The level of work and quality to me suggests it was a custom or a very high end piece that has perhaps lost its second label. Very chic, very rare and in excellent condition.

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam but with lots of room through the front bust
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 17" from shoulder to waist of the interior dress
Skirt: 23.5" from waist of the interior dress to hem

Fully lined in a high grade taupe silk. It closes with a side, painted metal zipper on the interior bodice and a second hand and hidden set, painted metal zipper on the exterior overlay. Hand finished to couture level. Boning though the interior bodice and the hem is weighted. Note that the skirt has been let out and there is faint seam lines on both sides of the hip. You can of course bring it back in.

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

Item#E472

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 stunning, classic 1950s set in the most beautiful silk taffeta fabric. And the color! It is so unusual to find these pretty colors anymore and this one is a fantastic iced blue with a silver undertone. The only label that remains is it Harzfeld's label that was a higher end department store. If this was a designer piece I would not be surprised - it is very well made and has those high end kind of details that point towards a well made piece. The dress has a full skirt and it is detailed with bands of tightly ruffled bands that follow the seam of the skirt. This same detailing is used to highlight the bust as well with a simpler bodice built under that ruffle. I love the halter tie neckline that leaves the upper back bare. The jacket is a cropped, curved and molded beauty that just slips on for the perfect finish! Excellent condition

Both pieces are unlined, with the bodice of the dress backed by the same fabric as the exterior. The dress closes with a side painted metal zipper and the jacket has no closures. It was photoed over a crinoline that is not included. There is a faint mark on the back of the skirt - please see photo. There is no discoloration to the fabric otherwise - any photos that seem that way are just lighting!

Jacket
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 14"

Dress
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam, with a good B cup of area in the front
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 11" from top of the bodice to waist seam
Skirt: 27" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E473

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 looks like it should be very heavy but it is surprisingly light. This is because of the clever use of fabric. It is sequined almost head to toe however the fabric behind it is actually a metallic thread lame with eyelash fringe portions to it. This keeps it very light weight and also supple while still allowing it to appear structured. The dress has a black velvet bodice that is simply cut and has a high waistline. The skirt is a simple A-line. The jacket is a gem and tops the dress perfectly. I love the luxe touch of the dark mink cuffs. The blend of the three textures is gorgeous and it is in excellent condition

Jacket
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 16"

Dress
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 12.5" from neck to waist seam
Skirt: 28" from waist to hem

Both pieces are fully lined in black silk. The dress closes with a back zipper and the jacket has no closures. Hand finished inside. Mink cuffs. There is a change in the direction of the velvet in the top of each shoulder but because of where it is its not noticeable when on.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# E474

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 feels very high end and is a beautiful set. I particularly love how versatile having that full evening coat is - the possibilities to top other pieces are endless!! Both pieces are made of a stunning light weight silk organza in a deep ink blue. The dress is strapless with a darling flat front bow detailing the otherwise simple bodice. The skirt has am amazing amount of fabric in it - it is pretty much a full circle skirt!† The fabric makes it feel like it is floating around the wearer. The hem of both pieces are finished with dressmakers horse hair ribbon to give them a touch of weight and shaping. The jacket has a fantastic Dior feel to it with its exaggerated voluminous shape and fullness! I love the detail of the pint on the back of the collar and to the elbow sleeves! It is beautiful! Excellent condition

Jacket
Shoulders: no defined seams
Bust: 25" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: open
Length: 44"

Dress
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 10" from neck to waist seam
Skirt: 29" from waist to hem

The dress is fully lined in a deep blue silky rayon and the jacket is unlined. The dress closes with a fine, side metal zipper and the jacket has no closures. It was styled over a crinoline that is not included. There is a faint fold line that circles the hem of the skirt and the jacket - I believe it was let down as some point. It is left as found and can easily be taken up if desired. The bodice is lightly boned and the front bust seams have molded, curved boning in them

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# E475

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 vibrant pink gown that is pink layered onto pink! The base has a pink lace layer over the inner fabric. Onto this are looping, swirling curves of pink sequins. The bodice and waist are showcased through the placement of the sequins. It closes at the back and is just a jewel! No flaws.

Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 14"
Skirt: 45" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# E477

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

Gold & silver brocade on black is in pristine condition. Silk lined, proper finished buttonholes, hidden pockets. Love how each button is covered so that it has a flower showing. This is a favorite of our guest editor for June, uber blogger Anita Clarke of the I Want, I Got blog and it was pulled for a Vogue shoot too! That is a double seal of approval! Extremely well made! No flaws.

Shoulders: 15"
Sleeves: 20"
Bust: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 53" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# C198

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

Stunning Claudia Young silk dress with strong lines and a beautiful "dragon" scale print in the silk. Love the panel at the back, huge hip pockets and the bold shoulder. Hooks at the neck and has original belt! Zip at the side. One small hole on the left arm that gets lost in folds and is stable - please see photo. Otherwise no flaws.

Shoulders: 15.5"
Sleeves: 23"
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 29" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS

Item# DD1212

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 pretty chiffon covered dress in a soft and pale lavender. The bodice is fitted and has little straps while the skirt is full. I love the huge 3 dimensional flowers constructed of fabric that trail over the waist and down the skirt! So pretty!

It zips to close at the back with a painted metal zipper. Fully lined in silk organza. No flaws

Bust: 17-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# D479

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 wonderful little 1940s dress in a deep chocolate silky rayon that has little medallions scattered over it from top to bottom. Each medallion has a white design and a dancing girl in its center. I love that they did each girl in a vivid turquoise - that particular color against the chocolate is just amazing! Classic loose cut through the top and an almost apron like panel on the front that gives it the suggestion of a peplum! Excellent condition and a little beauty.

Unlined and closes with a side metal zipper.

Shoulders: no defined seams
Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 29" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# D481

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 1940s piece is especially fabulous because it is actually a early form of a play suit based on shorts! Perfect for the pin up girl of the forties to go to and from the beach, it has a lovely design of starfish screened on it from top to bottom. A notched collar and button front add lots of detail to the already fabulous seaming and paneling. The "shorts" are cut with swingy overlay panels that slightly overlap so it looks like a sexy little dress - very forward for this time period! Huge deco buttons finish.

Note that the buttons has chips all along their edges - most likely from cleaning processes over the years. I have left them as they are still useable and they are original - even with the broken edges they are too fabulous to remove. You can of course replace them with new buttons if you wish. Unlined.

Shoulders: inset so no true defined seams
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 24" from waist to hem
Inseam: 11.5" from seam to hem

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

Item# D480

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 killer 1940s set that is hard to find and really something special! Made of a custom screened woven cotton, it is a bright coral missed with black and white flowers! The skirt is cut to cinch in at the waist and be swingy and sexy from there. The top wraps and ties while still staying somewhat high on the chest as was the fashion of the time. It does allow for a peek of the midriff so would have been very daring! Just killer and even better in person!

Unlined, the top wraps to close and the skirt has a fabric covered button at the side. There are a couple of tiny repairs in the skirt but you really don't see them because of the amount of fabric and swing cut unless it is laid out flat. They definitely do not detract form this amazing set. Ships professionally dry cleaned.

Top
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam but can adjust down a lot when wrapped
Waist: adjusts when wrapped
Length: 15"

Skirt
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 24" from waist to hem

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

Item# D482

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 fabulous little set has a old Holt Renfrew label and sadly no other. It can from an estate choc full of Chloe, Valentino, Dior and other top labels of the day so I would not be surprised if it turned out to be a designer piece! It is incredibly chic and even though it is knit, it is not bulky or too heavy for a modern girl to wear and feel comfortable in. The dress is a short shift with cream borders and buttons to highlight the bodice. The jacket is a perfect natch and cut straight with a collar and little pockets at the front. Love the gold toned buttons used on the jacket! Excellent condition!

The jacket buttons to close and the dress closes with a back painted metal zipper. Both pieces are unlined. There were two nicks in the knit along the top of the collar at the back and I put a stitch in each to secure.

Coat
Shoulders: 15"
Sleeves: 21"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 34" from neck to hem

Dress
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 19" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# D483

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 wonderful and beautiful flowing gown that is in a larger, wearable size. Perfect for any special occasion where you want to be classy but make a statement with a strong color! Layers of a bright pink chiffon flow from the suggestion of a waist made by the bead-work above. Silver beading and sequins are used to create that suggestion of a waist and also cover the entire upper bodice and the arms. The bead-work is all done on a silk chiffon so it is surprisingly light. I love the heavy border of beads and sequins that highlight the cuffs, waist and neck. It is just wonderful and even better in person! Excellent condition

Fully lined in pink rayon with the sleeves lined in silk chiffon only. The skirt has two layers of chiffon over the inner lining. Closes at the back with a painted metal zipper and teeny snaps close the chiffon over the zipper that lies beneath the beading to hide it. Zippers at each cuff

Shoulders: 18"
Sleeves: 23"
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: approx 17" from neck to waist
Skirt: 40" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED

Item# DD1258

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 super little red jersey dress with that classic and sexy one shoulder silhouette. It is gathered along the sides so it really gives a girl an hourglass shape. The side with the shoulder is balanced out by the side's hem cut on the curve to give a flash of leg! The jersey makes it virtually wrinkle proof so this is a super dress for when you have to travel or have an evening where you have to sit for a long period an then stand! Excellent, appears unworn condition

Fully lined in a red rayon. It closes at the side with a painted metal zipper and the shoulder has three functioning buttons and fabric loops to close.

All cut on the bias so really accommodates a variety of sizing

Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 53" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# E478

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

Sexy little late 50s, early 60s number done ins a pink cotton printed with a pretty, soft am romantic floral patter. This was then covered completely with a layer of hand placed and sewn clear sequins. The clear sequins give it an overall glow and shimmer but without being overtly flashy. It is fitted from head to toe with a scooped bodice and nipped in waist. The skirt is long and lean and hugs the hips. Love the low scooped back too! Excellent condition

Fully lined in a pink silky rayon. It closes with a back painted metal zipper. Perhaps the occasional sequin missing but because they are clear this does not detract in any way! Presents slightly softer in color then pictured

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 41" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# E479

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

Killer little sixties shift that is done in a beautiful combination of lace and bead work. A pink lace has its floral design accented and covered in a combination of silver glass tube beads and faux pearls. This completely covers the dress from neck to hem! Along the sleeve ends and neckline is a trim done in dense rows of beads. Really a pretty piece and that work would have been all hand done at the time! Excellent condition

Fully lined in a soft pink silky rayon and closes with a back painted metal zipper. I see no missing beads

Sleeves: 16"
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 36" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E480

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

Wonderful 1960s hostess gown done in a gold toned metallic green! The fabric is quite interesting -it is a lame cross woven with a knit that just peeks out in between the thatching. This really gives it an interesting and unusual texture that I love! Cut caftan mixed with kimono style it is a true dress in that is does not open all the way up. The sleeves are wide and it has a somewhat structured A-line feel to to it. Excellent condition!

Fully lined in a pale green silky rayon. It closes with a front painted metal zipper from the waist down that is hidden under the green detailing. Above the waist it closes with the the frog knot at the waist and hidden snaps. There is a slight "fuzziness" to the fabric that is natural to the fabric and should not be considered a flaw. Hidden pockets along the side seam

Sleeves: approx 18"
Shoulders: no defined seams
Bust: to 17" 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 neck to waist
Skirt: 40" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# E482

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

There is no label on this but the level of work and construction hints that it may well have been either a custom or designer piece that has sadly lost its label at some point. The work, fabric and construction are just too good for it to have been off the rack! The color has photoed as a pink but please know that it has more of a coral tone to it in person - the color is far more richer and towards the corals then it is the pink you see! The skirt is full and flows to the floor. The bodice is fitted and molds to the bodice. This is then covered with heavy 3D applique of silver seed beads, densely applied. It really gives the gown a wonderful effect and makes it so rich feeling! They are all glass to so the gown has a good solid weight to it! Just wonderful!

Fully lined in the same silk and closes with a back painted metal zipper. This gown is constructed to very high standards. The bead work is very heavy and 3D. It was all hand done onto lace applique and then these were hand applied to the dress. There is perhaps some beads missing but no bare areas and it presents well. There is a tiny amount of shattering under the arms that seems stable and it did not get worse when cleaned- please see the photo. If it worsens you could have the arm taken down a touch to eliminate this. Priced with this taken into account. It is too stunning not to list!

Bust: 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: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 35" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# E481

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

An absolute stunner, this early sixties silk organza dress is a "wow" piece! It has a scooped front and back neckline and the straps are set to sit a touch wide on the shoulder. The bust is formed and the waist seams curves prettily. The skirt flows out and widens as it nears the hem. The hem detail is of course, spectacular, with hand cut and placed "petals" set in three stacked rows atop of each other to form a tremendous flounced hem! I love the little flat bow that sits just above that hem at the front and its twin that sits at the top of the zipper! Gorgeous and in excellent, seemingly unworn condition!

Fully lined in a black silk and beautifully finished. Closed with back painted metal zipper

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14" from neck to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# E483

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 spectacular late 1930s, early 1940s Hostess gown and it strikingly similar to the one we have added to the photos. That photo was taken in 1939 when these were the height of fashion! The body of the gown is a mix of a black slipper satin with a front panel inset of silk taffeta in a bright mix of happy colors. The top has a string shoulder and a plunge front that you can wear as low as you wish. The skirt is remarkably full - there is miles of fabric in there! Cinch in the waist and style with modern accessories and it will be as relevant now as then! Excellent condition.

Unlined and closes with a front painted metal zipper. Has its original matching tie belt. There are some scuffs, small storage marks and very minor pinholes along the front skirt. These are viewable when the garment is flat and spread out but when on the immense amount of fabric hide everything and it present perfectly. It otherwise appears unworn and I suspect it was hung on a too short rod for many years.

Shoulders: 16"
Bust: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 17" from neck to waist
Skirt: 40" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# E484

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 gorgeous sixties dress that is all fitted bombshell curves and sexy ruffles. The cut is pure pin up with a pencil skirt, nipped in waist and a plunging sexy back! The waist has a pretty piped adornment and a darling little bow. The neck line is the stand out detail on this one of course! It is ringed with a red fabric ruffles that give the suggestion of blooms. These follow the entire neck and right down that beautiful bare back! Charles Cooper label. Excellent condition!

Fully lined in a red silk and closes with a back painted metal zipper. The piping at the waist closes at the back with a hidden hook and eye.

Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# D387

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 suit is constructed at a very high level and if it turned out to be a very high end designer I would not be chocked at all. Alas it only has its Holt Renfrew tag that dates it to the early 60s, maybe late 50s! It came from an estate that was chock full of the bog labels - Dior, Balenciaga and more so if nothing else it is on that level! The fabric is a wool with a nubby finish. It is a medium weight so not unwieldy to wear. I love the chic little pencil skirt with the slight flare to the hem. The jacket is adorable with an attached flat bow just under the bust and a second one on the belt. It came with this fabulous little eyelash finish shell which offers the perfect contrast to the suit fabric! A fabulous bit of added glitz! Excellent condition

The top is unlined and both the skirt and jacket have hand set fine black silk linings. The top closes with a fine back painted metal zipper as does the skirt, and the jacket buttons to close. The belt is original and has a hook closure. Really beautifully finished inside - a very well made suit!

Jacket
Sleeve: 21"
Shoulders: 15" no defined seams
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 22" from neck to hem

Skirt
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 21" from neck to hem

Top
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 20" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML

Item# DD1344

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 stunner! This is a pretty 1940s gown with a beautiful silver lace and net exterior that is set over an inner silk satin. This pay on the two fabrics mixed with the black netting give it a gorgeous muted silver, almost pewter feel. The Bodice is cut simply with a square neckline and high lace cap sleeves. The waist gently nips in and then the skirt flows to the floor in a swath of silver lace and net. The waist has a pretty detailing it to highlight and the skirt's hem is anchored with horsehair ribbon to help keep the suggestion of fullness. Excellent condition.

The inner dress acts as the lining and it is made of a silver rayon satin. It closes with a side painted metal zipper on the interior dress and snaps over that on the exterior lace overlay. I found one break in the lace near the zipper and had a stitch or tow put there it re-secure it. A slight stress to the inner fabric near the zipper that is stable. The hem is finished in a horsehair ribbon The gown appears not to have been worn and the tiny issues mentioned are probably from having been tried on by someone too big for it in its past.

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E487

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