Katharine Hamnett opened her own label in 1979 and became a star in the Britich fashion world. She has dressed countless celebrities and music people from Mick Jagger to Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, David Bowie, Bob Geldof and Minnie Driver. In 1984 she received the Designer of the year award from the British Fashion Council. This is a stunning and sexy little dress by her done in a deep blue and made of a cotton. It is gathered and ruched elaborately along all the seams through the bust. These travel the length of the dress to just past the hip where a little skirt flares out . The final result is a sexy little shape that hugs and follows your every curve but, at the same time it is completely easy and comfortable to wear because of the fabric choice. I love the little straps that curve up and over each shoulder - they are attached to the dress by buttons and can be removed to make the dress strapless if you wish. Excellent condition with one small note below.

Unlined and closes with a side metal and nylon zipper. The fabric can be hand washed and has been - there is a teeny slight feel of washed cotton to it. This is natural patina but I have priced it with this in mind. For me it just adds to the dress and its easy feel.

Bust: 15-16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12-13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 43" from shoulder strap to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2776

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 very pretty silk bias cut dress from the 1930s that has the prettiest white floral design screened onto the navy blue base. It is pieced together with minimal seaming. The movement you get once it is one is all created because the silk is cut on the bias. This all falls in a swath of silk from the shoulders and it is far prettier on a real body then how it has photoed on the mannequin. The front has an almost squared off neckline and the cut is cut simple and fairly close to the body. At the back, it is scooped into a low V and this sit above a tightly spaced row of buttons. Below this fabric that has been gathered to create a soft draped almost bustle like detail at the back and extra panels of fabric sit inside a pleated effect for a slight trained feel. The neckline is piped in a navy fabric and at the hem there is a wide band of cream silk grosgrain whose edge just peeks below the hem. This treatment at the hem gives it some weight so it falls properly. Excellent condition with one small note below.

The dress is unlined and slips on to wear with a series of hidden snaps under the row of buttons at the back. I see one small storage spot at the base of the strap of the shoulder (photoed) and the inside and edge of the hem show grubbiness.

Bust: 17-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 53.5" from shoulder to front hem, to 57" at the back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E634

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 deceptively simple Jean Patou silk dress in a lovely navy silk. Jean Patou once said "Certain dressmakers desire to pass for an artist. I have one ambition: that is to have good taste." and this dress is the very epitome of that statement despite its sexy lines. The dress is numbered and is true haute couture piece that has been made entirely by hand and represents countless hours of dedicated hand work within the atelier. Patou was one of the founders of the sportswear movement and the later designers of the house often hearkened back to this aesthetic. This dress for example, has the lines of the tennis dress, ramped up for evening.  It is constructed from a rich navy silk that is flattering on most skin tones. The bust is plunging halter whose straps curve and hook behind the neck. This leaves the back bare to the waist and offsets the simplicity of the color and cut at the front. The waist is detailed with a padded round piping. Under this the skirt falls in a swirl of fabric cut to flare out and swing. Inside the dress is all handwork and lined in a fine blue silk. Excellent condition.

A hand set silk lining throughout and hand finished seams. Finished to Haute Couture standards. Closes with hand set fine painted metal zipper at the low back. Built in and attached inner waist stay that hooks to close. Hooks to close at the back neck. Numbered label 96773 (or 96113).

Bust: open with no true side seams
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 neck to waist
Skirt: 24" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2775

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 red jersey dress is really amazing if for nothing else but the sheer versatility it will provide to you. It is basically a tube of red jersey with a slit up one seam at the skirt and two mile long ties that extend up from that seam. Those ties are miles long and fall almost tot he hem at the back which gives the back its own drama. This gives you the versatility to tie so many ways it's ridiculous. You just step into it and get creative. I tied it a few ways for the photos and just realized as I am writing up this description that you could probably turn it to the side and do a few version of a single shoulder dress and also drop it and tie it at the waist for a long skirt. It is so forgiving on the body and flattering. It's a definite statement maker with that brilliant red color and it is like buying a dozen dresses in one. Add to that a low scooped back that leave your back bare and it is a knock-out. The fabric is a synthetic jersey that is washable, travels exceptionally well and won't wrinkle. I love it. It is fabulous. Excellent condition

Made from a single layer of the jersey. It slips on the wear and then you tie it as you wish. The fabric has stretch so it will fit a range of sizes. I have given the comfortable range of stretch when measured flat below.

Bust: variable since it has no true side seams and has stretch
Waist to hip: 18-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: somewhat adjustable but approx 59" from neck to hem and it will vary a little depending on how you tie it at the neck

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-LRG

Item# E633

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

Chiffon layers edged in prong set rhinestones give this pretty, pastel coral dress a light as a feather feel. The bodice curves over the bust and the chiffon is set in vertical pleats for detail. The neckline and high waist are banded and detailed with a scattering of [prong set rhinestones. The skirt swoops to the floor from there and there is actually quite a bit of fabric that has been used in its construction but because it is cut on the bias it feels more like a column when the wearer is standing still and only displays its wonderful fullness once you move or twirl. Over the chiffon of the skirt is a angled panel that balance the one shoulder bodice and this panel is also detailed with rhinestones along its edge. The shoulder from which the entire dress suspends is topped by a dramatic bow made of the same fabric and it is placed there and secured by a final double row of rhinestones. So pretty and romantic. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a matching silky rayon. It closes with a painted metal and nylon side zipper. It is unlabeled but did have one - you can see the outline of it where it was cut out unfortunately. In person it is a touch more towards the pastel hue of this coral then how it photoed.

Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15.5" from top of shoulder to bottom of the band at waist
Skirt: 43" from bottom of the band at waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E632

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 this Frank Usher tucked away for a long time because it is so amazing it was hard to let go. If it does not sell quickly it might just disappear back into my archives so count yourself forewarned. It is really amazing. It drapes to the floor in a slinky column of jersey that is gathered all along the center front. This makes it so forgiving on the body and flattering. The fabric choice really drapes and moves wonderfully. It's a definite statement maker with that brilliant orange-coral color and has a Grecian goddess feel to it. It is cut on the bias so falls and drapes to follow your every curve. The skirt is long and lean and glides into the halter top that wraps around the neck. You can cross the ties over themselves or wear it with more of a V at the neck. Those ties are miles long and fall almost to the hem at the back which gives the back its own drama. Add to that a low scooped back that leave your back bare and it is a knock-out. The fabric is almost a swimsuit jersey so is washable, travels exceptionally well and won't wrinkle. I love it. It's all old Hollywood meets Madame Gres meets an ancient Grecian goddess and it is fabulous. Excellent condition

Made from a double layer of the jersey. It slips on the wear with a low back zipper and an enclosed elastic that wraps around the waist and hooks. The halter ties at the back of the neck. Tagged a vintage UK38/US12. The fabric has stretch so it will fit a range of sizes. I have given the comfortable range of stretch when measured flat below.

Bust: variable since it has no true side seams and has stretch
Waist: 13.5-15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner layer hips: 18-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: somewhat adjustable but approx 56-58" from neck to hem it will vary a little depending on how you tie it at the neck

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# DD2774

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 classic silk blouse from Yves Saint Laurent with a fabulous print. It has that signature YSL tie at the neck - this one is built right into the neckline as an extension of the top rather then being a separate tie like one usually sees.The tie makes it so versatile - you can tie as shown or any other way that you can dream up. Great smocking detail in the way the silk is set under the shoulder panel. I love the design screened onto the silk - the colors are a perfect compliment to each other with their mix of the purple base with a green and mustard design with shots of red. The cut is loose and easy and the sleeves pouf above their cuffs. It is made from a gorgeous light weight silk of a high quality. Excellent condition.

The top is unlined and closes down the front with buttons as shown. Each cuff buttons to close. Tagged a vintage 38 but the loose and easy cut will allow it to fit a full range of sizes.

Sleeves: 24"
Slightly dropped shoulders: 16"
Bust: 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 26.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# S724

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 lovely little tunic cut top from Yves Saint Laurent has a fabulous print and his classic peasant cut. It buttons at the front and closes to give you a higher neckline. I love the design screened onto the challis - the colors are a perfect compliment to each other with their muted black and green mix that will go with almost anything. The cut is loose and easy and the sleeves pouf above their cuffs. The top is cut almost like a tunic with a long line and slits at each side. This will allow you to tuck it on or wear it loose and easy over a bottom. It is made from a gorgeous light weight wool challis of a high quality. Excellent condition.

The top is unlined and closes at the neck with buttons as shown. Each cuff buttons to close. Tagged a vintage 38 but the loose and easy cut will allow it to fit a full range of sizes.

Sleeves: 24"
Slightly dropped shoulders: 16"
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 30" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# S777

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 seriously sexy, dramatic strapless dress that was made to hug and create curves whether a girl has then or not. It is all fitted and shaped to give you that Barbie Doll body with the bust and hips exaggerated in just the right way. The actual dress is a strapless little number that is cut above the knee and has a black cotton lace set over a nude base. Between the lace and the inner nude fabric is a layer of the same dotted tulle that makes up that dramatic skirting. This gives the lace an very interesting texture and depth. The sweetheart neckline tops the fitted silhouette of the dress. Circling the hip is a curving overlay of dotted tulle over two other tulle layers. These curve around and down and give the dress the suggestion of a full fifties skirt. Totally '80s and fabulous. Excellent condition

The dress is fully lined in a nude silky rayon and closes with a back metal and nylon zipper.

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 32" from top of bodice to hem of dress, 36" to longest point of tulle overlay

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2773

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 cute and sexy little dress that combines a beautiful silk with a fun, multi-color dot pattern. It is from the D&G label which no longer exists. The cut is classic D&G with a fitted, curving cut that follows the body and is very flattering. The bodice has a full built in corset with cups that keep the dress in place. Over this, the silk skims and drapes, down and around the body. There is a ruffled detail that circles the sweetheart neckline and that ruffle then extends down from one side, curves over the waist, and then runs down one hip. The skirt is cut to come up slightly at the spot where the ruffle ends for a little extra leg. At the back is one of their signature, large chunky zippers and the silk is all set to drape inward towards that. Signature, adjustable, lingerie straps sit at the shoulder and can be removed to make it a strapless dress. It is fabulous on and I love the colorful dots. Excellent condition

The dress is unlined and closes with a back zipper. There is a full boned bra/net corset inside the bust area. Tagged a 42

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam with approx an A-B cup
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: approx 43" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2772

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 fun little 80s dress is made from a combination of ruffled lace and sequins. The bodice is fitted and strapless and set to hug your curves. It has a black lace base that has rows of glossy black sequins adorning its surface. More sequins are set around the upper hip to define the band above the skirt. From there the skirt mimics the fullness of the fifties and flares out in an explosion of black lace ruffles. The lace  from the bodice extends down and is again used for the base fabric of the skirt and then it also has panels of the same lace set on curving angles all around the skirt. These have wired edges so that the resulting ruffles have curving, curling edges and give the skirt even more fullness and flounce. Underneath the exterior of the skirt is a layer of tulle with an extra panel set around the hem for added fullness, and then a lining under that for comfort. It is very flirting and fun. Excellent condition.

Lined a silky black satin and the bodice is lightly boned. The skirt has an additional tulle layer between the lining and the top skirt layer. It closes at the back with a painted metal and nylon zipper.

Bust: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 14" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 20" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2771

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 most likely a more modern piece but has a lovely vintage feel to it. The combination of colors used on it and its sweeping lines and train make it appropriate for the grandest of events. The body of the dress is made of a emerald green net tulle. Onto this are beautiful red and pink floral applique highlighted with a scattering of beads and sequins. These cover the bodice and trail done the front past the waist. More of the same applique work circle each sleeve at its hem. The skirts flow to the floor on a massive sweep of tulle and at the back they flow out behind you in a train. The underskirt is a pretty muted satin in the same brilliant green and this adds a pretty depth to the skirt under the tulle. At the back it laces corset style with the same green silk as the underskirt. This type of closure at the back gives you the ability to cinch it in for the perfect fit and also makes it very comfortable. It is very pretty. Excellent condition

Fully lined in another layer of tulle through the bust with built in cups attached between the layers. The sleeves are left unlined and the skirt is fully lined in a green satin. It laces to close at the back and has a panel that sits behind the lace so no skin shows through. If you wanted the lacing to show a glimpse of skin through you could easily remove this.

Sleeves: 17.5"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 17-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 16.5" from natural neck to waist
Skirt: 49" front, 63" back, from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# E631

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 really spectacular set by Pauline Trigere is constructed from layers of silk chiffon that combine two tones of green with a exterior purple layer. The silk used is almost weightless and it feels like wisps of air once on. The skirt flows to the floor and is constructed so that there is an inner layer of the darkest green that is seamed so it closes around the hips and then three layers of silk over this that attached at the waist only. Since only the very inner layer is closed and only closed around the hip, you get  a high, sexy, side slit down one side. The top is cut in a simple tank that has tiny straps suspending it from the shoulders. I love that for those straps she used the same three colors of the silk used for the two pieces. The top uses the same layering technique of the three colors that the skirt has. Each colored silk layer is set on top of each other and set so you can clearly see them stacked on top of each other along the neckline. The matching, long oblong scarf, is also made of those same three shades of color and can be wrapped around the waist, neck or used as a head piece or evening turban. It is very beautiful. Being a set gives you the added versatility of wearing the pieces together or separate. Excellent condition.

Each piece is made of three layers of silk chiffon with the skirt having an additional lining as well made of the same silk. Hand finished and weighs ounces. The top closes at the side with a series of hand set snaps. You step into the skirt and then close it at the waist with two flat hook & eye. You could adjust the placement of the hooks at the waist to get an inch up or down if needed.

Top
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 17" from shoulder to hem

Skirt
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 42" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2089

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

Vogue said of the S/S 2002 collection: "John Galliano's "Street Chic" collection took the form of a virtual world tour, with stops that included lavishly clad Bedouins, army recruits and girls in the 'hood. This was not the first time Dior has gone globetrotting, but Galliano injected, as always, new energy into his ethnic excursions. His bias-cut silk and lace dresses, embroidered jackets and sheer tops will work better than ever in this season of unbridled romanticism. Python jackets and low-slung hip-hop jeans also seem right for the moment, while the more eye-popping pieces—like the glittering pantsuit embroidered with kitschy Americana motifs—are just the thing for a starlet's weekend jaunt to Vegas."

This is a fabulous and sexy piece and it is looks like this one that defined the years that Galliano was at the head of Dior before his downfall. He was a master at contouring the body into the shapes he wanted and this is a beautiful example of how he combined both structure and flow in the same garment. The bodice is a structured corset that hooks down the front with flat hooks and is boned and shaped. The cups at the bust are padded and shaped to lift the breasts. Each cup is top stitched for extra detailing and this also offers contrast to the striped fabric. At the back the corset is laced so you can adjust it for the perfect cinched fit. Below this the silk chiffon skirt flows to the floor in a two sweeping layers of bias cut silk. It sweeps out as it nears the hem and has a slight train at the back. There is a slit up one side so you can see the the salmon pink silk chiffon layer under the top striped one when you move. Galliano designed fantasy pieces that combined historical references and pulled bits of design from a huge cross section of eras and somehow combined them to create very beautiful clothing. I remember seeing this dress everywhere that season and am sure there are more reference photos to be found for this dress. It really is one of his recognizable pieces. It is absolutely beautiful. Excellent condition

The dress is fully lined in silk through the bust with interior built in padded cups and boning.. It closes with a metal and nylon zipper at the side, laces at the back and hooks to close at the front. The skirt is lined with an attached second layer of silk. Tagged a US6, French 38. Because of the lacing on the back there is some adjustment possible for fit through the bust and waist.

Bust: 15-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 2-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 61" from top of dress to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD2770

Reference Photos: Christian Dior S/S 2002. (1) Look 47. Model: Liudmilla Bakhmat.  /  (2) Look 44. Model: Karolina Kurkova.

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 and seventies Leonard dress and cape set is a find. The dress in this set is made from his signature silk jersey fabric. This fabric choice give it the perfect drape and fit and it also wonderfully holds the color of the print that covers the surface. It is that perfect balance of being easy to wear and still having the feel of being chic and luxurious. This would have been a custom designed fabric and during this time period in particular, the company was producing the most gorgeous color palettes like this one. The design that covers both pieces is a mix of pretty flowers in pinks and purples on a black backdrop. I love the simple cut of the dress and how it flows to the floor in a swoop of bias cut silk jersey from the band around the upper bust. The cut is long and lean and the silk jersey drapes and moves with you as you move. Over this sits a pretty silk chiffon cape that buttons at the neck and has a touch of transparency to it and has a defined collar. It sits beautifully over the other dress and instantly takes the dress to the next level. Excellent condition.

Unlined and closes with a side, metal and nylon zipper. the cape has a fabric covered button at the back of the neck. The dress fabric is a silk jersey and does have some stretch - the measurements given are to the comfortable stretch when laying out flat. The fabric is signed throughout.

Dress
The band at the top of the bust that goes around: 15-16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Natural Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 58" from neck to hem

Cape
37" from neck to longest point at hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD2769

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 wonderful and dramatic dress this is. It would have been originally sold as a lingerie piece but it is opaque enough that in our modern world it can now easily be worn out as a proper dress. It is made of a fine synthetic silk that is hand washable. Its pleated ruffle top and signature print instantly identifies it as Zandra Rhodes. I have had similar pieces to this in various solid colors in the past but this one is a little extra fabulous since it has one of her signature prints on its black base. Zandra is known for her use of design and pattern and her absolute genius for cut and color shine here. The dress is sleeveless and has double straps that suspend it from the shoulders. It falls in a sheath of fabric with a ruffle detailing the top of the bust. The entire top half of the dress is printed and the cut is very easy to wear and flattering. A little inset of lace on the skirt is the perfect finish. Excellent condition

Unlined and made from a silk looking lingerie weight washable polyester fabric. A classic Zandra Rhodes print screened onto the fabric. It slips on to wear and is opaque enough to be able to be worn on its own. Tagged a S but the loose cut will allow a variety of sizes to fit it. It also has a Bonwit Teller tag

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 53.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD2768

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 twin of this emsemble is held in the permanent archives of The Met and is perhaps the only other version made. It is as chic and wearable now as it was when first made and feels very modern. It is entirely finished by hand and would have been made under the direct supervision of Hubert de Givenchy himself. Haute Couture is the very pinnacle of the fashion experience and this is a stunning example of that.

The dress is a stunning affair made of a smoky blue grey silk crepe with a classic Grecian feeling one shoulder silhouette. The construction details are wonderful. The bodice has been gathered by hand to create a series of soft little pleats that sit beside each other and follow the angle of the shoulder. They have an almost "wave" feeling to them and this small detail adds tremendous texture to the dress. This leads to a defined waist that has its original gold leather cord that wraps and ties to add shape. The skirt falls below this in a column of lined silk. Over the simple skirt is a second panel of floating fabric that is angled to pick up the angle of the shoulder. The fabric has just enough weight so that Givenchy was able to sculpt the shape he desired. Over this beautiful dress is a caped piece in a matching fabric that flows softly over the body. No shortcut was taken in the construction and it is a stand out piece in every possible way. However much you think this looks fabulous in the photographs it is infinitely better in person. Excellent condition with a few small notes below to review .

The dress is fully lined in a hand set blue silk of very high quality. There is a wide waist stay that hooks at the inner waist. It closes with a hand set, side painted metal zipper and from the waist down there are hidden set snaps that close the fabric of the skirt over tat zipper. The cape slips over the head . The bodice is lightly boned and there are small pads handset inside the bust. There are some light snags in the fabric here and there - most noticeably on the back of the skirt near the bottom - these are seen most when it is laid out flat but once on the color and placement make them negligible but it is mentioned for accuracy and taken into consideration when priced. Finished to Haute Couture standards and entirely done by hand. Haute Couture tape label #55417

Dress
Bust: 15-17" 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: 15" from top of shoulder strap to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Cape
39" from neck to longest point of hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2767

Reference Photo: 1973 Givenchy Evening Dress from The MET Collection.

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 this same dress in the past but it was several years ago and I was happy to have another land in the shop as I always loved this dress. Beene is one of the great American designers and I actively look for his work, especially the earlier pieces from his Geoffrey Beene Boutique days. I absolutely adore this dress. It is a classic blue and white stripe on a almost transparent cotton voile. The skirt is cut with a beautiful fullness and flows out from a defined, banded waist that sits right under the bust and gives you shape. The fabric choice gives it a wonderful light airy feel and it feels wonderful to wear once on. Meeting the band at the waist is a front plunge that is cut in a deep V. Either side of that V then flows into the  wide, billowy sleeves. There are no side seams to break the line of the sleeve, they simply just flow out from that V into stunning puffed sleeves that each end in a fitted 5.5" buttoned cuff. The back is equally as dramatic as the front. It also plunges to meet the band at the high waist but here it is cut and set wider so you get a more squared off feel that leaves an bare expanse of skin. A large white flower and sits over a matching fabric bow at the base of the front plunge for a last feminine detail. Excellent condition.

Interlined through the skirt in a semi-sheer white silk organza. The bust is unlined. It close with a series of fabric covered buttons and a low back zipper. Each cuff closes with six fabric covered, round button and loops

Sleeves: 28" approx.
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: open
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 11" from shoulder to top of band at waist + 3.5" band
Skirt: 42" from bottom of band at the waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2766

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

Halston single-handedly transformed cashmere from a dowdy British staple to a fashion must-have. These long, slim dresses made of pure cashmere wool became a Halston staple and were designed for that chic modern woman to wear. The wearer was able to move and be superbly comfortable, never worrying about getting wrinkled or being inappropriate or uncomfortable. Every chic woman had to have one. I have included a reference photo of a lighter blue version held in The Met archives and a campaign photo form 1977 that shows a jumpsuit version in the same brilliant blue as this piece has been done. Recently, variations of his work in cashmere were featured in the Museum at FIT exhibit "Yves Saint Laurent + Halston: Fashioning the 70s". In their exhibit notes they mention these cashmere pieces specifically:

"Halston’s use of historical elements to create new collections was sparing. Rather than re-interpret the designs of those who came before him, he made subtle allusions to those designers whose work he most admired. He was inspired by body-revealing activewear and the sinuous, bias-cut gowns of Madeleine Vionnet from the 1930s, while primary influences from the 1940s included the cashmere sweater sets of Mainbocher and the ingenious ties and closures employed by Claire McCardell"

The dress is full length and cut with a single shoulder and falls from there in a column of royal blue cashmere to the floor. In the book "Halston; An American Original", they talk about Halston's cashmere pieces and quote Polly Mellon as saying: "His cashmere pieces to the floor... weren't just tubes: they had armholes, were neat on top, yet very cozy and at the same time elegant". It is said that they were inspired by a close associate that was a dance instructor and were intended to give the body complete freedom.  The color is amazing - a rich blue that is even better on person then how it photoed. It is the kind of color that will flatter most skin tones. These brilliantly colored pieces are not as easy to find for Halston anymore and this dress is an amazing and rare piece of fashion history. Excellent condition.

Unlined and slips on to wear. It is made from hand-loomed 100% cashmere made in Italy. Tagged a size L but it appears to be cut small and because it is knit it has stretch and will fit a variety of sizes. I have given the comfortable range of stretch while it is lying flat in the measurements below. You could probably go a little beyond that range listed depending on how fitted you wanted it.

Bust: 15-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 59" from top of shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item#  DD2765

Reference Photos: (1) 1977 Halston Cashmere Dress at the MET Museum  /  (2) Halston with Models, Harper's Bazaar, February 1977.

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 beautiful tank from Halston is an absolute dream dress and a shining example of his aesthetic. It is made from a bias cut, red silk jersey. It is a simple construction that uses  a single layer of the fabric so it skims over the body and highlights every curve. One of Halston's signatures was to construct pieces with the absolute minimal seaming and this is a stunning example of how he executed that ideal. The dress is a simple tank style that falls to the floor in a beautiful column of silk jersey that gradually widens as it nears the hem. By the time you get to the lower skirt of the dress there is an amazing amount of fabric in the skirt. The front and back dip down in a scoop and it is just that perfect example of the American sportswear movement of this time period that still incorporated an easy kind of sexuality. It presents as excellent condition but does have some small flaws to review in the condition notes below.

It is made from a single layer of red silk jersey and closes with a back painted metal zipper. The dress has a few small marks and spots on the skirt and an odd little "wave" pattern that seems to run through the fabric on the side lower skirt oddly - this can happen with this fabric if it is not stored properly for extended periods of time. All of this negligible and I photoed the worst bits, There is so much fabric on the lower portion of the dress that once on you don't notice any of this.  Because of the stretch of the fabric there is some give to the measurements listed.

Bust: 11-16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 11-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20-24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 58" from shoulder strap to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2764

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 exception 1920s cape by Adair is utterly amazing and a true work of art. The Adair atelier was based in Paris and made beaded pieces to export into the American market. The pieces were based on the Haute Couture ateliers of the day and the work was done entirely by hand. They were one step away from being couture pieces themselves but did not have the official designation by the La Chambre syndicale de la haute couture. The cape is made from a luxurious deep red silk that drapes to perfection once on. The collar is gathered and padded with a ruffled top so it stands up and frames the neck and face. This closes with a simple series of flat hooks at the front. From there the cape falls to the knee area in a cascade of silk. Onto this is a dense pattern done in a variety of glass tube beads in black, white and a silver and these absolutely pop off the red silk. It is stunning. They add the perfect bit of weight so the cape hangs perfectly. It is an absolute treasure of a find and such a rarity to find a piece this old and in this condition considering it is entirely original and so many of the pieces you see at market at this level of condition have had restoration work done to them. Excellent antique condition.

Unlined and closes at the neck with three hook & eye. I do see a small amount of beads missing here and there and a thinning of the fabric across each shoulder where I suspect it was hung at some point during its life. Please review the photos. For an original piece that is now almost 100 years old I would rate this as excellent overall condition

Length: 46" from neck to hem

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

Modern Sizing Equivalent: OSFA

Item# C438

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

Valentino knows how to cut a dress to perfectly flatter a woman's body. Few designers can come close to the masterful techniques he perfected over the decades of his prolific career. This is an exceptional example of his work and it is very beautiful and striking. It has that feeling of simplicity that the nineties epitomized and yet, still feels modern and fresh. The almost weightless silk chiffon is completely cut on the bias and has been dyed his signature Valentino red. It is cut to drape perfectly over the body, skimming over your curves to flatter and fit perfectly. 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. If you know Valentino's work, then you know the exact shade this red is in person. The top is cut asymmetrically and angles across the top of the bust where it is suspended from one shoulder by a wide panel. This then turns into a cap sleeve on the other shoulder that has a ruffled finish that trails down the side. The back drops to a deep V for a sexy finish. From that spectacular cut bodice, the skirt drapes to the floor in a column of bias cut silk. A long ruffled is gathered in a offset ruching from the hip to the top of the bust and more fabric highlights the slit in the skirt. It is just stunning on the body. Excellent condition

Made of two layers of the red, bias cut silk chiffon. It closes with a back hidden set zipper. Hand finishes. Tagged a Valentino 12 but please check the actual measurements. It is cut on the bias so there is some give in size up or down.

Bust: 18-21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# DD2390

Reference Photos: (1) Valentino Runway

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