This lovely little black fifties cocktail dress is a dream. It is a real bombshell of a dress and these are really exception ones are getting harder and harder to find. This one is made of a black silk faille with a beautifully sculpted and appliqued bodice detail. The dress is sculpted to the body with vertical seaming that curves the dress around the bust, nips it in at the waist and skims to over the hips to a long, slightly flaring pencil skirt. That fantastic bodice inset is constructed from a lingerie weight, nude stretch netting covered with open cut floral appliques, all partially backed with a nude lining. This beautiful panel sweeps low down the front and curves up and over the shoulders to a deep V at the back. Very sensual and fabulous. Excellent condition

The bodice is constructed of a layer of lingerie weight net over a nude silky rayon and the skirt is lined in a black muslin. It closes with a painted metal back zipper. The applique work is hand applied with the stitches clearly seen on the inside lining.

Bust: 17-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 40" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E597

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

Finding really beautiful pieces from the turn of the century through to the twenties is getting to be a harder and harder task without having to do restoration work on them, something you see (and may not be told) more and more often as each year passes and many pieces get more and more fragile. So when I do find a piece that is sound and strong and has the added bonus of being entirely original it is that much more a treasure. In addition to all of that this one also has it's original inner slip as well. The gown is one long sheath ghat flares out at the hem in a stunning sweep of metallic lace. It has an incredible curving and swirling seaming detail that wraps around the dress and creates this beautiful pattern on the black silk crepe.  It was incredibly hard to capture and I can only assure you that it is far, far better in person then what you see photoed. Above and below the middle portion of the bias cut silk crepe is a black lace with gold embroidery running through the lace. All that embroidery work is even more amazing when you realize that the metallic lace tulle is hand embroidered with real gold thread and it is all in mint condition. The lines are beautiful and the entire thing is a masterpiece of hand work. I love the huge velvet flower that perfectly finishes the bodice. Underneath the is a silk and net slip that is also so well made it could almost be worn on its own. It has a single layer of silk tulle that helps to showcase the volume of the lower skirt. Its completely wearable (with care of course - its still over a 100 years old so should be handled with much care, love and respect) and its really a work of art, not just a piece of clothing. The lucky girl who gets this will be very pleased indeed! It is truly a special piece and made to couture standards. Excellent, museum quality condition.

The separate inner dress acts as the lining and both pieces are unlined. Both slip over the head to wear. Note that there are small holes in the silk net of the inner slip dress. I have left it all as foiund since they all appear stable and in no way detract or are seen under the exterior dress. There is the slightest of darkening to the lame thread near the arm edges but I am being extremely picky. The velvet flower is perhaps a touch flattened but again I am being extremely picky. For a piece that is almost 100 years old the condition is museum quality.

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.

Inner
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 18" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 35.5" from waist to hem

Outer
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E595

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

Pieces like this are what I love about being in the vintage business. It is just something you are not likely to see again and it is just incredible. This amazing caftan dress is a fantastic combination of some of the most extensive bead work that has the most amazing movement to it. This is due to each of those strings of beads being secured at the base only so the slightest movement causes them to move as well. The caftan is literally covered with these little individual beaded fringes from head to toe and each fringe is a full 5.5" long. This makes the entire thing weigh about 3 pounds but because of the cut and distribution of the beads evenly over the surface, once on it doesn't feel too heavy. The base fabric is a stretch satin rayon jersey in black. The fabric has a sheen that offsets the beading perfectly and gives the piece a very "Studio 54" feel. Because the beading is so very dense it acts simply as a backdrop to the gold. It's cut loose and easy with a V neck and wide cut sleeves to the elbow. Both the back and front mimic that dip at the neck and end on pointed hems. All the edges are finished with a single row of bead and sequins. Really a show-stopper of a piece. Excellent condition

Unlined and slips over the head to wear. Each beaded fringe was hand placed and sewn onto the base fabric. I see no missing pieces of fringe. There is an opening under each arm and is part of the design. The loose caftan cut allows it to fit a wide variety of sizes

Sleeves: 12"
Dropped shoulders: 19"
Bust: 21.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 24.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 55" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-LRG

Item# E594

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 fine silk organza in a beautiful dusty blue with a touch of iridescent purple to the fabric was used to create this stunning halter dress. Taking its cues from the far east, it has an exotic sari feel to it and I love the gold thread used to create the beautiful pattern that runs over its surface and details the waist. During this time period and into the early seventies India held a great fascination as it continued to open to the Western world. Pieces were made specifically for the Western market and these were made of beautiful, traditional silks and organza's that were then crafted into more Western cuts like this dress and jacket. The blue here is a dusty blue with a slightly more purple undertone than how it photoed. The gold medallions through the silk and that heavily band the waist and hem are woven directly into the silk. I love how the dress curves over the bust and around the neck and the back is left bare. Very sexy. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a blue muslin through the skirt and rayon through the halter top. The dress closes with a back painted metal zipper.

Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner lining at hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 39" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E592

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 red silk chiffon dress came from a recent estate sale that was chock full of high end designer pieces that are making their way to the shop. The particular little beauty had no label anymore but still had its original paper hang tag from Martha's, a seven store boutique chain that specialized in high end and couture labels. This is definitely a designer piece and it is a shame that just who it is will remain a mystery but the buyer benefits as you are getting and amazingly well made gown at an extraordinary price. It is so fresh and modern in feel that it could be easily mistaken as a piece from a current runway collection. It is masterfully cut and drapes into place once on to skim over the body and move subtly as you do. The color is absolutely fantastic - the perfect clear red that flatters most skin tones - I think it is even better in person then how it has photoed. It is cut as a column of the finest grade silk chiffon to float over the body and cascades to the floor in a finish of ruffled silk. The bodice is suspended from straps at the shoulder with a dipped neckline. Panels of silk softly drape across the bust and are caught up at the center with pretty silk ties. At the back the panel curves around for a pretty and romantic feel. The skirt falls to the floor and with two extensive tiers of silk sweeping to the floor and creating stunning movement. Excellent condition and the interior tag tells us it has never been worn.

It is made of two layers of silk chiffon over a red silk lining with another layers of red silk chiffon through the bodice. It closes with a hidden set back zipper. Hand finishes. Note the inner paper tag was removed so that it could be dry cleaned and then put back into place. Note the red in person has more of a blue pink undertone then the coral is photoed as.

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips at interior lining: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 58" from shoulder to back hem with the front hem cut slightly shorter

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E591

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 just a certain cut and line of a seventies halter that once you find you look for variations of it endlessly. This is that dress. It is super chic and one of those easy to wear pieces that you can just throw into a suitcase and it works for day or night and at the beach, the country or the city and you always feel like a million bucks in it. The nylon jersey means you can wash and wear it and it is virtually wrinkle free. It's got a element of sexiness too it with that low bare back but with a bit of a bohemian vibe thrown in. The front is cut high up around the neck line and curves around with plunging sides. This leaves the back virtually bare and it is cut low and deep so you get a sexy expanse of skin. The supermodel length skirt cascades to the floor in a widening sweep of jersey and there are yards and yards of fabric in there. The fact that the print is an explosion of bright, almost neon, tropical blooms is just bonus. Excellent condition.

It has a double layer of the jersey through the halter and the skirt is unlined. It hooks to close at the back neck and zippers at the low back waist.

Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 60" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED

Item# E589

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 1947 Christian Dior showed a series of dress with fabric rosette detailed busts and it was, as expected, immediately reinvented by seamstresses and manufacturers everywhere just as things are now. Here we have a lovely interpretation of Dior's creation that is very well made and has its own unique feel. The body of the dress is a matte silk satin and is cut to curve up and around the body, molding over the hips and nipping in at the waist. The hourglass feel is all created with cleverly slanted seaming and intricately pieces panels through the waist rather then a horizontal waist seam. The halter on the neck curves up and around and leaves the upper back completely bare. The bust is fabulous - is is gathered pale blush pink silk organza and set to give extra dimension to a girls assets. In the center sits a large rosette that has scattered, prong set rhinestones adorning the surface. It is a knockout! Excellent condition.

Fully interlined with a black silky rayon and closes with a back metal zipper. The halter that goes over the head has no closures. There is a very slight touch is over-pressing/shininess to the fabric near the seams and here and there but it is priced to sell with this taken into consideration. Note the front silk organza is more of a ballet pink in person then the soft peach it photoed as

Bust: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam with a good B cup front
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 17" from neck to waist
Skirt: 27.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E588

Reference Photo: Denise Duval, French opera singer, wearing a Christian Dior dress in Paris, May 1947 (credit unknown).

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 a gorgeous sixties silk print dress in a brilliant combination of colors on fine Thai silk. The fabric would have been block printed with the design and the result is wonderful. The base is a deep red with a swirling pattern of yellow and muted teal running over its entirety. It is cut with a strong nod to those beautiful hostess gowns of the 30s and 40s. The bodice is more fitted and this is balanced by full poufed sleeves that end at about the elbow. The waist nips in and then the skirt explodes in a wonderful full flowing column of chiffon to the floor. The silk is divine and the print feels so fresh and wonderful. It is a true beauty, really fantastic and an easy to wear statement piece. Presents as excellent but please read description below and view all provided photos.

Fully lined in a fine red tissue silk and closes at the back with a hidden set painted metal zipper. Each sleeve has elastic at the cuff. There is a small amount of damage to the back hem - please see the photo. It appears strong and stable and because it is lined it is really not that apparent when on. Sold as is and marked around half of what it would normally be.

Sleeves: 17"
Inset shoulders: 13.5"
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 17" from neck to waist
Skirt: 38.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# D560

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

The fabric on this dress is so unusual and beautiful. A curving design is made of blue and silver-blue metallic thread made into a cut work applique that is then sewn onto a nude netting. This gives the dress a fantastic 3D quality and the entire dress a beautiful shimmering effect as the metallic thread catches the light. The front is cut with a A at the neckline and narrows down at the waist. The sleeves are cut slim and long and each has an exotic circle of hand dyed, bright blue feathers circling each wrist. Those same feathers run around the neckline as well. It really gives the dress an over the top feel in the best possible way. The skirt falls to the ground in a wide column, perfectly balancing that extravagant bodice. Very fun and flirty. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a nude silk net. Closes with a back painted metal zipper. Each cuff snaps to close and the feathers are attached. The feathers at the neck are attached part way around and the portions that are not snap into place with hidden snaps. Note that it was very tight on my mannequin so on a smaller girl of the right size will fall and fit better across the bust and back.

Sleeves: 20.5" (feathers extend further)
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 16" 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
Length: 51" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS

Item# E587

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

Caftans from this time period can be amazing little pieces of art. They were hand made in in various vacation spots around the world during the late sixties to early seventies and were the epitome of vacation chic, both then and now. Looking like it could have been worn by Talitha Getty, this is an amazing and easy to wear piece that you can wear to the beach, during the day or as an evening piece. The design is based on a classic caftan silhouette that pairs a brilliantly deep sea blue dyed cotton with hand done embroidery work in a fine yarn. The embroidery details the neckline, each cuff and hem. I love how there is a little spray of flowers at the back of the neck and how the neckline is finished with gold cording. Cut loose and easy, it just slips over the head and you can leave the neckline open for a bit of skin to peek through. Excellent condition

Unlined and slips on to wear with buttons at the neck as shown.

Sleeves: 20.5"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 53.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D559

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 such a pretty dress. I love the floral finish with its soft, washed out graphic print that gives the gown a romantic feel. I completely covers the entire gown for the prettiest effect. The cut of the gown is very flattering and is all bombshell Hollywood starlet goddess. A fitted, strapless bodice follows every curve. It is cut to follow the floral design around the top edge adding to the feminine feel. It cinches in at the waist and then curves over the hips to flare out slightly to the floor. There is a long belt that hooks around the waist and then drapes down quite ling. It is backed in a purple satin for an unexpected pop of color against the graphic black and white palette.  Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a cotton muslin with boning in the bodice. It closes with a side metal and nylon zipper. The belt hooks to close so can be adjusted in needed for the prefect fit. Hand finishes. The fabric has the look and feel of a raw silk but I believe it to be a cotton/synthetic mix.

Bust: 16.5-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 22-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 11.5" from top to waist
Skirt: 41" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E586

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 absolutely stunning. A real showstopper. It feels very very well made - to an almost demi-couture quality and it is just a beauty. It is a fantastical combination of a velvet, feathers and rhinestones. The body of the dress is made form a black velvet that has an iridescent  lame thread running through. The effect is subtle but does give the fabric an overall shimmer that really adds to the depth and dimension of the velvet. Each sleeve is finished with both a beautiful circle of glossy black feathers and a heavy cuff of huge glass rhinestones. This rhinestone detail also edges the V cut neckline. I can't tell you enough about the quality of the rhinestones - they are very large glass cut stones and of very high quality. and each is prong set. The waist curves up to meet the V of the neckline and the skirt flows down from there in a slightly widening A-line.  I love the contrast of the three textures together and the simple cut of the dress itself allows it all to work together perfectly. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a hand set black silk and closes at the back with a painted metal zipper. Lots of hand finishing and the feathers are glossy and there is no shedding. The rhinestones all appear to be present and I see no darkened stones.

Sleeves: 18.5" (feathers extend further)
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Under Bust: 14.5"
True Waist: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 26" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 52.5" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E585

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 1960s maxi dress by Miss Elliot and it is hard not to love such a strong statement piece. It is certainly one of the most dramatic dresses I have seen and yet it still has a soft and sexy element to it. It is done in a beautiful deep burgundy chiffon. The standout element is of course the sleeves - each is a ends in a long and dramatic circle of fabric that flows almost to the ground giving the dress a ethereal feel. They are each a full 30" in length and trail down the sides. The way they move and flow when you move while wearing the dress is just incredible. The skirt flows to the ground in a swath of chiffon that ends in a ruffle - the perfect balance to the sleeves. I love the high cowled neck - the full coverage through the body really just highlight those sleeves. The contrast between the color and the beautiful cut mixed with the volume of the sleeves is incredible. Excellent condition.

The bodice and skirt are fully lined in a matching silky rayon and the sleeves are left unlined. It closes at the back with a painted metal zipper.

Sleeves: 20" with a 30" drop below the sleeve
Shoulders: 17"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14.5" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 45" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E584

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 lovely black slipper satin cocktail dress with very femme fatale lines. It really does a wonderful job of combining a chic silhouette with a bit of a "vamp" feel. The skirt is cut in a lean pencil skirt with a fabulous panel of fabric that sits over the back and wraps part way around the sides. This creates a real couture feel and added volume. The bodice is strapless with a banded panel that sits just under the bust and really defines the upper torso. The bandeau bust line has cups overlaid and these are set to give extra volume there with each curved and peaked. Each overlay at the bust has a fabulous silk braided cord embroidery. Excellent condition

Has a second layer of the same fabric to act as the lining throughout. Lightly boned through the bodice. It closes with a back painted metal zipper. The seam areas show perhaps the teeniest bit of extra shiniest but this is to be expected with this fabric and the age of the dress. Its the natural patina of the fabric.

Bust: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Seam at under-bust: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 10" from top of bodice to waist seam
Skirt: 28" from waist seam to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E582

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 particular dress is so unusual and so well made that I am absolutely 100% sure this is a not only a designer piece but most likely an important one. The construction is to demi-couture standards with an immense amount of hand-work in it. It is fitted to hug the body and make of a high quality silk satin dyed to the perfect pale, butter hue. The dress is cut as tight to the body as possible with a ultra lean fitted pencil skirt and simple strapped bodice. The straps themselves are an important clue to the quality of this dress -each is cut from the same piece of fabric as the top pleat of the neckline- there is no seam, meaning it was all cut from the same bolt of fabric, all pre-planned prior to the actual cutting the fabric and it would have used a tremendous amount of fabric to accomplish this. The pleating is masterful. On the bodice it is done in flat rows that end at the side seams. These continues down to the waist but then the pleats past the waist seam begin to wrap around the sides of the skirt and are attached in a way that create volume and has a very couture feel. The pleats widen as they go around the hip area and then narrow in at the front - it takes the concept of a wasp waist to a literal level. The pictures do not do this justice, nor do they capture the richness and depth of color of the fabric, as the full effect is best on a real girl. Extraordinary piece. Excellent condition.

Closes with a back painted metal zip. Fully lined - the bodice is lined in a silk dyed to match the exterior and the skirt in pale yellow silky rayon. Lots of hand finishes and a hand set zipper. There is a scuff or two here and there on the silk satin near the back bottom hem and one of the front pleats near the bottom has a teeny row of very minor scuff across it. A tiny mark that i believe to be a pen mark on the top of one hip as photoed here. The original long, fabric tie is attached at the front waist and ties into place

Bust: 17" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Bodice length: 15.5" from shoulder to waist seam
Skirt length: 26" from waist seam to the longest point at the front bottom of the hem. The dress under the front pleating is an inch shorter.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E577

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

Super chic jersey dress with the best coral print on blue mixed with sharp geomtrics. This is one of those easy to wear pieces that you can just throw into a suitcase and it works for day or night and at the beach, the country or the city. The jersey means you can wash and wear it and it is virtually wrinkle free. It's got a element of sexiness too it with that low back but with a bit of a bohemian vibe thrown in.The front is high and goes up and around the neck while the back is cut low and deep so you get a nice expanse of bare skin. The skirt cascades to the floor in a widening sweep of jersey. I love it! Excellent condition.

It has a double layer of the jersey through the halter and the skirt is unlined. It ties at the back neck and zippers at the low back waist.

Bust: no true side seams
Waist: 13.5-14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 17" from neck to waist
Skirt: 35.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E581

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

These studded dresses from the 1940s are almost impossible to find and often examples have just a minor detailing of stud work. This one however is like the holy grail as it is completely covered in hand set, flat almost sequin like, silver studs with a denser application of them in clusters that create an almost floral design feel. The cut is perfectly simple and perfectly feminine. The skirt is cut swing style and gently curves away from the more fitted hip area. The bodice is classic forties with short sleeves and a V neck that has a soft pleating detail in either side. Over the entire surface of the ink black stretch silk crepe are tiny hand set silver studs, each individually placed in prong settings and set by hand. I absolutely love the flared hip detail that adds that little extra special touch. One of the most striking and unusual 1940s dresses I have ever had. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with a side metal zipper. Hand finishes, prong set sets.  I see no missing studs.

Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: to 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14.5" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 28.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D558

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 a beautiful and unusual avant garde cut and design. There is no label but I am sure that this has to be a designer piece as the workmanship and extraordinary design has the feel of a high end piece. The textile that it 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 an embroidered and fused design of beautiful butterflies that fly across the surface. The color and play in texture is stunning. The dress is fitted over the bodice with a cinched in waist. that leaves one shoulder bare. At the other shoulder a pointed and sculpted panel of fabric juts out and is cleverly wired inside so it retains its shape and height. The skirt is marvelous with a wrapped panel that hangs over an inner more fitted skirt. This is cut on an angle so picks up and mimics the angled curve of the shoulder. The level of work and quality to me suggests it was a custom made dress or a very high end piece that has perhaps lost its label. The butterflies are fused into the fabric except where they cross a seam - then they have been partially cut out and sewn over the seam invisibly as if they truly are over the fabric. Very chic and very rare. The photos are not ding this piece justice at all! Excellent condition.

Unlined and hand finished. It closes with a fine metal zipper at the side.

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 17.5" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 33.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E580

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

For some reason the silk satin produced in this time period seems to have an extra bit of richness and luxuriousness to it. I don't know why but any vintage lover  of merit knows exactly what I mean. The sweetheart bodice is very sexy and flattering. The stars on the shoulders are cut wide and then the from dips down in a scoop. It is gathered to give the illusion of a little more fullness and to add detail. Under this the waist curves in through vertical seaming. The skirt is cut very full and I have styled it with a light crinoline underneath so you can get an idea of just how much fabric is in there. Without the crinoline you still get a sense of fullness, especially when you move and it can easily be worn with or without. I love the little abstract dotted pattern that comes through the black silk - and when you sit or move a certain way you get a flash of the colors underneath that create this effect. If you love it in the pictures you will be blown away when it arrives! Excellent condition.

Unlined and closed with a side painted metal zipper.

Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 44" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E579

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 charming little forties silky rayon wrapped day dress that has a pretty floral design hand screened onto the deep burgundy base. It is incredible to think that this little beauty would have originally been intended to be worn only in the house as perhaps a light house coat or hostess dress for the day as it makes for a beautiful little day dress for a modern girl. The shoulders are lightly padded and squared off and the wrapped design allows for a peek of skin at the neck. The skirt has a pretty flare and I love the wider cut sleeves. It is truly a beautiful little early forties dress. Great overall condition.

Unlined and wraps to close. Has its original tie belt. There is a tiny area of discoloration on one shoulder - see photo - when on it is pretty much under the collar but is there. Priced accordingly

Sleeves: 18.5"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 33.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D555

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 fabulous find. It is an early seventies scarf or bandanna caftan dress made of a light cotton and a beautiful green print. The sleeves are cut wide and full, giving a nod to the kimono sleeve. Both the back and the front have a high scooped neck and it is cut so that the magnificent skirt literally has a full 360 degree sweep. This gives it incredible volume and movement. The cotton used is light and fine so it feels easy to wear despite all that fabric in the skirt. The print and the way it is mixed is magnificent. The solid portion outlining the interior patterns create huge sweeping diamonds over the surface and the angles and way its placed help to create height and offset the volume of the fabric. It's supermodel length and the perfect piece that can easily go from the beach to day wear to night and into the fall with a change of styling. These were usually well worn and loved dearly so to find one in such outstanding condition is a real treat. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with a back painted metal zipper. The caftan/kimono like cut will fit a variety of sizes as long as there is room in the bust. One smudge of a discoloration on the front - super-size the close up bodice pic to see. Priced accordingly. This may come out with additional cleaning

Sleeves: approx. 24.5"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: open
Hips: open
Length: 60" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# D545

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

Gorgeous early sixties maxi dress with a signed, dramatic print" in red, black and white. The colors absolutely pop off the fabric and is placed to give the dress the illusion of length and leanness. The print itself is gorgeous and screened from head to toe on the dress in a pattern of striped, dots and graphic flowers. The dress itself is cut to be simple and easy to wear - it skims over the body with a matching fabric tie running through the waist and flares out wonderfully as it reaches the bottom hem. I love the simple little collar at the neck and how the tie waist allows you to leave it loose and easy or cinch it in for more shape. A great seasonal piece that you can wear as shown or with layers. It will also easily go day to night depending on how you style it. So bright and so fabulous. Excellent condition

Unlined and slips over the head. The tie at the waist runs through the waist and is adjustable for the perfect fit.

Sleeves: 10.5"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 12.5" from neck to top of waist
Skirt: 45" from top of waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D554

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 just fabulous and one of those great little finds from no particular designer but that are just amazing. Made of a synthetic slippery, glossy black satin it just has the best lines and a sleek and chic feel. The dots are painted onto the surface so have a slight raised feel. The jacket zips up the front and is fitted with a pointed collar. The pants have a sleek fit around the hip and then flare out to a wide leg. Love the puffed high shoulders and the half belt that is attached at the back of the jacket so you can cinch it in and add more shape. Its a super set that looks amazing when worn together but can also be worn as separates. Excellent condition.

Both pieces are unlined. The pants close with a front zipper and buttons at the waist and the jacket zips to close.

Top
Sleeves: 23"
Shoulders: 13"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 24" from neck to hem

Pants
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 44.5" from waist to hem
Inseam: 32.5"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# D553

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 amazing 1960s silk caftan has no designer label but easily could have as it is well done. The workmanship is very fine and the quality high. It has a inner jersey dress identifying it as being made in the late 60s, early seventies but the exterior silk actually feel older and could well be. The cut has that draped, goddess, flowing feel to it that is so easy to wear and looks so amazing when on. The inner dress is a stretch jersey so gives it a bit of inner structure and over this is a floating caftan of a spectacular purple silk shot through with a metallic patter that gets heavier as it nears the lower half. Broad panels of woven metallic thread ring the hem and each sleeve. It does have sleeves and each narrows into a long cuff with an elaborate and tightly spaced row of buttons. I love the effect and contrast that this creates between the billowing silk through the body and the fitted cuffs. An amazing find with a real antique and exotic feel. Excellent condition

This has a inner dress made of a purple stretch jersey whose measurements are given below - if you needed more room it would be possible to easily remove this inner dress and have it entirely loose and unfitted (it is only attached at the neck and around the collar) and just wear the outer silk layer. I have put it in the one size fits all option but please note that it does at present have the inner dress attached. It slips over the head to wear. There is some "stretching" to the silk at the back as photoed. It is how it was when I acquired it so not sure if its a natural flaw of the silk. It presents fine and is infinitely wearable as is - priced accordingly. Braided buttons and loops on each cuff. A true purple in person though it has photoed more of a blue tone.

Outer
Width: 56" from sleeve to sleeve
Length: 54.5" from neck to hem

Inner stretch jersey dress
Bust: 22-26" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 26" flat across from side seam to side seam

Modern Sizing Equivalent: One Size Fits All

Item# E578

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, for her weekly style column on our blog Curated. (Photos by Erin Leydon) Click here to see the full column >

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 gown from the late 1950s, maybe early 1960s. The gown is extraordinary. A heavy grade silk satin is hand dyed a salmon pink and that color, combined with the fabric choice, makes it seem to have an inner glow. A simple sheath that nips in slightly at the waist sits under a wrapped outer layer. Indeed, upon inspection one realizes that the outer layer is a finely constructed piece in its own right that is attached around the top back and sides and wraps separately around the inner sheath. The sides curve around the body and away down the sides. At the front where it meets it ties in an extravagant silk fringe tipped bow. Inside is a fully constructed inner corset with cups built in and boning. It has no label which is a shame as it has all the hallmarks of a very high end designer piece from this period. Lots of interior hand work and constructed to demi-couture standards. A really wonderful piece and so beautiful. Excellent condition.

The dress is fully interlined throughout in hand set silk organza. Inside the bodice of the inner dress is a beautifully made silk satin corset that is boned. It closes with a double, back painted metal zipper - one on the inner corset and one on the exterior layer. The neck strap hooks into place on one side - it can also be worn strapless if you tuck the strap in. The silk has some very, very minor scuffing here and there. This is a natural occurrence over time with this fabric and should not be considered a flaw

Bust: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E575

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 a gorgeous vintage caftan and in a hard to find bright pink that has a wonderful heavy silver metallic thread design embroidered onto it. The caftan is cut long and is of mid-weight light that really allows it to hold that columnar shape. I love the dramatic and extensive panels of embroidery work that runs all the way down the front and across the upper back. Additionally all the edges near the seams have silver derailing. It is also picked up heavily around the cuffs of the sleeves and the design trails down each side and around the bottom. As it nears the hem the caftan widens out slightly for a nice fullness. I love the exotic feel and the dramatic statement the combination of the pink and silver. The buttons and loops are covered in a metal thread so add a little extra bit of gleam down the front. Very well made and the thread is very thick and of high quality. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a hand set deep silver silk including the sleeves. It closes at the front with metal thread buttons and loops. There is a little bit of wear to the very top button. It completely unbuttons at the front. Hand made

Sleeves: 20.5"
Shoulders: 18"
Bust: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 22.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# E574

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 strongly feel that this is a designer piece and I have seen the dotted part of this fabric somewhere in the past. I suspect that the girl who snatches it up will receive and email from me one day in the future letting her know I have identified it. It is certainly well made and made of a high quality silk as well. The almost weightless silk used has been tie dyed with a bold and bright palette. It floats over the body with yards and yards of fabric used through the body. This floats over a more substantial inner cotton dress. It gathers softly all around the piped neckline. The sleeves also have a great deal of fabric in them and pouf above there cuffs. It has a matching silk belt that is reversible with the tie dye pattern on one side and the dotted design on the other so you can change the look depending on which side you show or wear it loose and easy and unbelted. I just love the bright patterns against the blue. It reminds me of tropical sunsets. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a coral cotton through the body with the sleeves left unlined. It closes with aback painted metal zipper. Each sleeve has two silk covered decorative fabric buttons and hidden snaps to close the cuff underneath. The fabric tie belt is original to the dress and in excellent condition. Hand finishes inside.

Sleeves: 23.5"
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 55" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D552

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 set is just absolutely gorgeous with its Pucci vibe and in person the colors are even more fabulous then how they have photoed. It was made in Italy and is the same high quality you would find with Pucci. The maxi length skirt is a flat fronted with a sleek cut around the hip. This then opens in a dramatic flare to the floor. The cotton velvet really helps hold its shape but is not too heavy or bulky to feel uncomfortable on. The top is done turtle neck style and in the same print. For this though a very fine silk jersey was the fabric choice and this combines with the slinky cut give it a great skinny, fitted feel. The identical print also gives it a fabulous continuity when worn together but at the same time the two fabrics are distinct from each other. The colors are fabulous mix of brights and will easily work throughout the year. Being two separate pieces makes it versatile since you can wear it as together or as separates. Excellent condition

The skirt is fully lined in a purple silk and closes with a back painted metal zipper. The top slips over the head and has a zipper at the back neck. Each cuff has two fabric covered buttons. Note that it someone has taken in the waist by opening the seam and folding over the top of the waist into the back and stitching it all together. It's decently done and I have left it as found. You could easily return it the way it was and get another inch at the waist.

Top
Sleeves: 26"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 16.5-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17.5-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 26" from neck to hem

Skirt
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 40.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D551

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

The Western world in the twenties to fifties had a special fascination with all things art deco and oriental and places like Japan and China began to export pieces made specifically for the tourist market. These pieces combined classic design elements of the respective cultures with a slight western twist to the cut and colors. You often will see the jacket but the coats are a little harder to find and far more versatile in my opinion. These were the most prized both then and now. This one is stunning and done in a high grade, fine red silk with off white detailing to contrast the cuffs, collar, front and hem. Over this is is embroidered with absolutely brilliant colors. The floral pattern in its soft pastel tones and the overall design are exquisite. Its lovely and light so easy to wear. Excellent vintage condition.

Fully lined in red tissue silk, it closes with frog knots at the front. There is a dark smudge on one shoulder and perhaps the occasional scuff to the fabric. It is in fabulous shape and these tiny things really just add to its vintage appeal. Priced accordingly. Also just as an interesting aside - this was borrowed by the girls over at Vogue and was worn by a staffer to the pre-Met gala party! It will easily fit a range of sizes.

Sleeves: 12"
Drop shoulders: 26"
Bust: 21.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 22.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 24.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 43" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-LRG

Item# C392

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

Gorgeous early sixties maxi dress by the "Fashions of Hawaii" company. The colors are gorgeous - a deep blue with a custom print in a brilliant red that absolutely pops off the print. The print itself is gorgeous and screened from head to toe on the dress in a pattern of huge tropical blooms and large leafs. The dress itself is cut to be simple and easy to wear - it skims over the body and flares out slightly as it reaches the bottom hem. I love the folded down collar at the neck and how this extends into long ties that trail down the back. A great seasonal piece that you can wear as shown or add a belt for more definition. It will also easily go day to night depending on how you style it. So bright and so fabulous. Excellent condition

PS -The last picture is actually from our instagram account - we thought it was a brilliant doppelgänger to the dress Leandra Medine, founder of The Man Repeller, wore to Valentino during S/S 2015 Paris Fashion recently. Photo credit to the blog site Collage Vintage

The dress is unlined and closes with a painted back metal zipper

Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 49.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D550

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

Made of a fluid black nylon jersey with a very pretty ponk and green floral print that pops off and rings the lower half of the dress, this sexy silhouette is very easy to wear. The dress will fit just about any body - the lightness of the fabric and the way it drapes hide the fact that there is an amazing amount of fabric through the body. It simply slips on and suspends from the shoulder where the tie straps allow you to adjust it to the perfect fit. The sides plunge low and the loose caftan fit is so easy to wear and to travel with. It is virtually wrinkle free - it is the kind of piece you can throw into a suitcase and be able to wash and wear. It works from day to night depending on how you style it and whether you wear heels or flats. You can also belt it for a completely different look. You cannot help but feel amazing in this easy to wear dress. Excellent condition

Unlined and slips on . The shoulder straps tie and are adjustable

Bust to Hips: open
Length: 60" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: One size fits all

Item# D549

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 design of this jumpsuit - it's sexy but still chic and it really is an extraordinary and dramatic piece that is super easy to wear and travel with. The legs are super wide so it looks at first glance to be a dress but it is definitely a jumpsuit! The bodice is cut in a plunging V at the front and dips equally as low at the back leaving a wide expanse of bare skin. The bust has defined and lightly padded cups so you can go bare underneath and I love the little fabric bits on top of each shoulder that wrap around the strap and tie. It is made out of made of a nylon jersey - think a swimsuit like fabric - so is easy to travel with and virtually wrinkle free - it is the kind of piece you can throw into a suitcase and be able to wash and wear. It works from day to night depending on how you style it and if you go with flats or heels. The basic black with its pops of red mixed with an abstract print make it truly a stunner. Excellent condition

Lined through the bodice with a very light lingerie weight cup and closes with a back painted metal zipper. The legs are unlined.

Bust: 14.5-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Torso: 30" from top of shoulders to top of inseam
Length: 56" from top of shoulders to hem
Inseam: 30"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# D548

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 silk crepe gown from the heady hey days of the thirties is a beauty. It has a really lovely beaded halter detail whose placement is unusual and very chic and modern feeling while feeling very ancient Grecian goddess at the same time. The straps run over the shoulders and meet at the center of the top bust line and then continue as a single panel down to the high waist. This strap is encrusted with clear iridescent aurora borealis beads. The bust is gathered up and in behind that center strap and then the skirt cascades to the floor in a column of silk. It is not perfect but present well and is still very beautiful

Fully lined in a cream silk satin and closes with a back metal zipper. In overall great shape with a few beads missing from the straps on one shoulder but no overwhelming bare area. It's only true flaw is that at some point someone has taken down the hem to get more length and it has it original ribbon finish serving as its hem line now. There is a faint mark running around the hem where the original seam was. I have chosen to leave it as is so if you need to hem it you can do it exactly where you need it. Priced with this in mind.

Bust: 13-16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5-14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner skirt hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 58" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E572

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

The early little black jersey dresses that Ceil Chapman made on the late 40s and early 50s are some of the best examples of her work out there. This piece is seriously extraordinary and I hope that girl that decides to make it hers truly will love and cherish it. These arely Chapman pieces are very hard to come by and you can see the master draping techniques she employed in this piece. Made of a very early silk knit jersey the fabric is very fluid and drapes perfectly. The bodice is completely gathered in soft pleats held in place by the vertical stitching that run down the front. I love the gathered sleeves that carry the ruched feel down each arm. The looped pleating technique that create the front and back panels is incredibly beautiful and has that art deco, architectural feel to them. The panels give the dress movement and ease as you move. It does not have its Ceil Chapman label but it is absolutely a Chapman. Just a really extraordinary piece that is highly collectible and in excellent condition.

Beautifully lined in a combination of black tissue silk and a wide band of heavier cotton muslin at the hem and bodice to properly weight it and hold the proper shape. It closes with a back painted metal zipper.

Sleeves: approx. 17"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 16.5-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14.5" from neck to waist
Skirt: 28" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2218

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 have seen this dress attributed to Suzy Perette but also have seen it attributed to more minor designers and since this one has no tag I cannot say for sure who the original designer was. It is certainly well made enough to be a Perette and is a lovely little dress regardless. Made of a beautiful grade, black silk taffeta for the skirt and a velvet at the top. The front is cut simply so the bodice is nicely fitted to the body. The waist nips in over a full skirt and is set high up under the bust. The skirt is full and has the perfect amount of fullness that allows you wear it with or without a crinoline and not be too overwhelmed by volume (shown with a light crinoline under it here that is not included). The "coffin drape" ruching and gathers that the skirt has is of course the highlight of the dress and gives it incredible texture and an almost "goth" feel yet the lies and fabrics keep it from being too dark in feel. Its a little beauty! Excellent condition.

Fully interlined in a black silk and closes with a back painted metal zipper. Styled here with a light crinoline underneath that is not included. It can easily be worn without one and still has volume.

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21.5-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 13" from neck to waist
Skirt: 35" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED

Item# E571

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

Absolutely stunning lightweight silky rayon "Purrjama" dress that has the most beautiful soft and romantic floral design hand screened in soft feminine pinks, lavenders and just a touch of blue green on a soft pink base. It is incredible to think that this little beauty would have originally been intended to be worn as lingerie as it makes for a beautiful little dress for a modern girl. It is constructed form long lean individual panels set vertically and curved slightly to create the pretty flared shape of the dress. the collar is wide and pointed and each shoulder a delightful pouf. It zips to close up the front with a brass zipper so you can wear it closed tot he neck or open to show a touch of skin. It is truly a beautiful little early dress. Excellent condition.

Unlined and closes at the front with a brass zipper.

Sleeves: 12.5"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 54.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E570

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

Great little pieces from the sixties are always an amazing addition to a modern girls wardrobe. There is just something about them that really makes them hold up and stand against modern pieces and they are easy to make feel modern with the correct styling.  This particular dress is fabulous. Its made of a woven metallic brocade that has weight enough to hold its fantastic shape and lines, but is not so thick as to feel awkward or uncomfortable when on the body. The colors are lovely - a pastel versions of a soft pinky salmon coral mixed through with gold and silver with a pale pink metallic thread thrown in the mix. The cut is simple, long sleeves and has a nice, dramatic little A-line flare as it nears the hem. The neck line is cut high but wide and I love the padding that is edged in silver lame thread that circles the neck, cuffs and hem. It really adds a shot of glamor. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in lighter pinky-coral rayon, it closes at the back with a painted metal zipper

Sleeves: 21.5"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 38" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E568

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 absolutely adore this dress and am already jealous of the girl that will be able to wear it. It is so unusual for the time period with its use of a lurex thread knit fabric in this shaped and length. The fabric is amazing - super light weight knit with silver threading worked through the black base to give it a metallic glint from shoulder to hem. The top has a high neck with a wide tie attached at its front. The waist is highlighted with an attached belt and the skirt flares out gently to just past the knee. Each sleeve puffs out above the sequin detailed cuff. Onto the poufed area is a dense floral design made of silver and black sequins. Excellent condition

Fully lined through the body in a silky rayon and closes with a back painted metal zipper. A missing sequin here and there on the cuffs but nothing that overly detracts.

Sleeves: 21.5"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 24.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E567

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 have had a version of this dress before but never one that still retained with it its matching coat. It is really a rare and unusual set that has a witty trompe l'oiel handbag made of bead work and faux pearls on the dress. Made to appear as if a beaded evening bag sits over the shoulder and down the side, the entire design is completely hand beaded onto the dress. A ring of beads also circle each cuff. On the coat, the neckline also is encircled in beads as is each cuff. The dress is self is cut in a generous A-line shift and the coat is also cut on a generous A-line. The base fabric on both is a black slub silk mix and I love the pop of red rhinestones that sit in and amongst the faux pearls and beads. The lucky girl who gets this will be very pleased indeed! It is truly a special piece that can be worn together or broken up and worn separately for more versatility. Excellent condition

Both pieces are lined  - the dress in a black silk and the coat in a burgundy silk that has quilting around the inner edges. The dress closes with a back painted metal zipper and the coat closes with hidden buttons. It looks like someone added an extra row of button holes - perhaps to adjust where they sit a little - but because they are hidden under the front edge you don't see this and they look to have been professionally done in any case.

Coat
Sleeves: 21.5"
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: 21.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 24.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 45" from neck to hem

Dress
Sleeves: 17"
Shoulders: 16.5"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 35" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# E565

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 fantastic sixties kimono-esque wrapped caftan that is quite wonderful. The green used is a deep deep olive and that combined with the pop of orange used on the applique and embroidery work that detail the front, neck and sleeves makes for a fabulous combination. The sleeves are wide and very full and the body of the caftan is cut loose and easy. This one wraps and button into place at the front - which is a little more unusual then a standard, over-the-head version. The fabric is a light cotton so even though there are yards and yards of it it does not feel heavy when on but loose and easy to wear. This can easily go form the beach to day wear to evening. It's brilliant! Excellent condition

Unlined and wraps and buttons to close with a series of buttons hidden inside (pictured) and on the exterior. The embroidery and cotton applique work appear to be done by hand. The cotton is light weight and there are some very minor variations and discoloration in the shade of green here and there - I feel this is a combination of natural patina and the fabric choice used (its hand dyed). It just makes it feel more authentically vintage and fabulous in my opinion. The loose cut can fit a variety of sizes

Sleeves: 21"
Shoulders: 13.5"
Bust: 16-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 52" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# D547

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, fine silky rayon printed 1940s dress is in museum quality and is a real beauty. The cut and design are beautiful - it is loose through the body and skim your curves but has a matching tie belt that you can cinch in the waist with. It has a fantastic huge grey scale leaf and branch print on the gorgeous green back drop. The cut is so easy to wear - a loose fitting bodice tops a wide cut skirt that gently flares out as it nears the hem. I love the ruffles that ring the neck and shoulders and how this same ruffle detail is used to finish the hem. It is a tremendous example of the workmanship and extraordinary thought that went into dresses during that time period. A wonderful piece to wear now! Excellent condition

The dress is unlined and slips over the head to wear. Note that there is a small hole right under where the belt sits (so does not show when belted at all) its about the size of a cigarette ash burn. Priced accordingly. The very loose and easy cut when not belted will allow it to fit a large variety of sizes.

Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 20.5-21.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: open
Hips: open
Length: 45.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# D546

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 amazing 1970s caftan for the beach that is the epitome of hippie chic. Looking like it could have been worn by Talitha Getty this is an amazing and easy to wear piece. A classic Indian cotton caftan  has a gorgeous print hand blocked over its surface and this paired with a dramatic shape and cut make it a must have. Love the squared off neckline that dips on both the front and back. Running through the waist is a black cord tie that wraps around you inside and creates some shape at the front. You can cinch it in for more definition and gathers at the waist or leave super loose and full. It is amazing and a great original piece. Excellent condition!

Unlined and slips on to wear. A ties goes around you inside the caftan and then comes put at the front and ties so you can adjust and add some shape. The sides are partially closed with a seam that runs about 12" in from the outer edges under the opening for the arm.

Width: 48-52" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 55.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: OSFA (One Size Fits All)

Item# D543

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 have seen this dress somewhere in the past attributed to Valentino but have never been able to verify that so I am hesitant to attribute it as such. If it is then the person who buys it is getting a fantastic bargain! It certainly is of a quality to be from the designer and is quite beautiful. The sequins appear to be completely hand applied and when you see the dress in person the work and density of the sequin coverage blows you away. They are densely packed and I love the curving "stain glass" feel to the design. A border of yellow and pink edge the neckline and hem. Soft blue is broken up with black and a scattering of flowers rings the hem for the perfect pop of bright color. The shape is a classic shift that widens as it nears its hem so it is very easy to wear and comfortable. This one is especially beautiful because of the colors and intricacy of the design. Really super piece. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a pale blue silk and closes with a back painted metal zipper. The sequins appear to be all applied by hand. There are a few missing sequins on one shoulder but this does not detract in anyway. Priced accordingly

Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 38" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E564

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

Simple and perfect little fifties black with it's cut outs through which a nude color peeks out, is the perfect soring and summer dress when you want to have that Audrey Hepburn vibe. I love the high boat neck that gives the shoulders such a flattering line. Simple sleeves end just below the elbow and the bodice is fitted and nips in. This combines with the flare of the skirt helps create the illusion of a teeny tiny waistline.  At the back as well there is a sexy little V that dips and exposes the upper back. The skirt flares out and is quite full. I have put a crinoline under it so you can see the fullness, or you can wear it without. Its is very pretty and its cotton lace cut out design makes it unusual and a real find - when up close you see a series of curved open "circles", but from afar these for lines and a more graphic feel. Excellent condition.

Interlined with a nude colored silky rayon. It closes with a side, painted metal zipper. The crinoline it is photoed with is not included

Sleeves: approx. 14"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15.5" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# D542

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

Made from an amazing early rayon jersey that is cut on the bias so has a touch of stretch to it, this dress is just wonderful. It appears to have been stored properly for all these years as the color is as crisp and vibrant as the day it was made! The design is stunning. A beautiful floral design is done in a brilliant combination of pink and yellow. Its an unusual color combination for this time period and really something special. The cut is simple and sweet with a dipped neckline and soft gathered pleating along each shoulder. The waist nips in with attached ties  that you can use to cinch it in further. There is a curved panel of fabric on each side that is built in for a suggestion of a hip peplum without any of the bulk that a true on would give you. The skirt is cut swing style and gently curves away from the more fitted hip area. The front has a row of three large early plastic buttons that look like twisted licorice and are fabulous. Really a spectacular and special piece. Presents as excellent condition.

Unlined and closes with a side metal zipper. There is slight color run near the seam under each arm but it does not show when on and does not detract at all because of the print.

Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 16-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16.5" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 25.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# D541

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 beauty is so well made I am sure it is a designer piece but somewhere along the way it has lost all its labels. The work on it is wonderful with hand rolled and finished edges and you can tell by the pattern that the design was well thought out. It has a definite Hanae Mori vibe to it and I feel certain that one day I will be emailing the new owner to let them know I have found evidence of its true heritage! Made of floating layers of silk chiffon with a print that starts in a soft pink at the top and deepens to a vivid cherry, then purple and finally a green and block design around the hem. Each sleeve is a single, wide layer of chiffon and set low into the sides of the dress. The outer chiffon bodice floats over an inner more fitted piece. The skirt is a single layer of chiffon but set into the waist in a series of soft gathers so is very full. It sweeps to the floor in a beautiful cascade of silk and color. An attached gathered sash cinches in the waist for added shape and balance. It is so pretty in person. Excellent condition.

The upper portion of the dress has a built in pink crepe inner bodice. The skirt has an inner black silk taffeta skirt under the chiffon layer (the hip measurement given is of the lining - if you needed more room it would be an easy alteration to add or replace the lining to accommodate). It closes with a back hidden set painted metal zipper. All the edges are hand finished.

Sleeves: 19.5" drop & approx. 16" from shoulder to hem
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14" from top of bodice to top of waist band, waist band 3.5"
Skirt: 40.5" from bottom of waist band to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# E563

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 embroidered dress with its nod to the tradition Mexican dress is a beauty. I especially love the pop of color with that bib of embroidery  that covers the bodice. It is just so pretty. The base fabric a texture to it and has little strips of a cotton ribbon lace separating the panels. These give an extra bit of texture to the dress. The front is notched quite deep at the center and I love the wide bell finish to each sleeve. These mimic the wideingin curve of the skirt with each tier being wider then the one above it. Little colored looped yarn in the same colors as the bodice design are used to separate each tier and edge the sleeves as well. Everything about this dress is beautiful. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with a back painted metal zipper

Sleeves: 19"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 25" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 39" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2167

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