james galanos

1970s James Galanos Backless Blue Floral Print Ruffled Silk Dress

James Galanos was known as the designer that could rival the French in terms of construction and design. He launched his atelier in 1951 and although his atelier was never formally designated as Haute Couture by the French, he certainly produced clothing that met the parameters of couture and he is often referred to  as one of the great American couturiers.

The gorgeous dress is made of a light weight black silk that is covered with a blue floral print. The blue that makes up the floral part is not a solid color, rather it has different shades of blue in its make-up. This is further enhanced by the pattern that runs through the silk itself. The final effect is so pretty and unusual. The silk used is very fine and light so dress feels like it weighs mere ounces. It is beautifully cut in a long column that skims over the body with a high 25" slit running up one leg. At the front the neckline is cut high and a the collar has a ruffled finish to it. A row of ruffles also angles down and follows the wide deep cut of the sleeves for extra detailing. That ruffled finish curves around to the back where it edges the opening there. The curved cut to leave the back completely bare. It is gorgeous and I am pleased to have photos of this exact dress on model, Lais Ribeiro so that you can see just how wonderful it is on a real body. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a fine black silk chiffon and closes at the back with a hand set zipper. Each cuff closes with a zipper. If you need more length there is approx 3" under the hem

Sleeves: 23"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: no true defined seam because of open back and dolman sleeve
Waist: to 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 55" from neck to hem
Slit at one side: 25" from hem to top of slit

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3077

Reference Photos: Lais Ribeiro at the Prada Linea Rossa Party for New York Fashion Week, September 2018.

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

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SIZE GUIDE

Please review all measurements carefully. More often than not, vintage garments do not fit any size category exactly. If in doubt, measure a garment of your own that fits and is a similar cut and compare it's measurements to the listed measurements below.