#4648 - c. 1989 BOB MACKIE Red Beaded and Sequined Gown on Black Netting! As you know from my website, early Bob Mackie gowns and dresses originally sold for up to $18,000.(!).. and this was 15-20 years ago!! With inflation...well, I can't count that high! Only these very early net Mackie dresses (and costumes) were priced at this level. There were many Mackie mass-produced dresses that were produced later, and often people don't know the difference. Always seek out the fully beaded dresses and gowns on netting - these were lined in nude material to be worn out in public, but if the linings were removed, they were the same nearly see-through dresses that were worn by Cher, Diana Ross and others! This gown is the same "Grapes" design that was used by Mackie for the Sharon Stone nude illusion net dress for "Casino". That gown just sold at auction for $13,200! These "Grapes" gowns were from Mackie's 1989 California Collection - a salute to the Napa Valley. Black netting with blood red bugle beads and sequins fully lined in removable black silk. Boned bodice. Measures: 36/37" bust, up to 27" waist, up to 37" hips, 43" long from natural waist to hem. Back zipper. Excellent condition!  Also Listed in the 1930-Today Category.

$ 5,250.

Approx. - Size 6/8 (with 27" waist)
(check measurements above)

c. 1980s
BOB MACKIE
Bead and Sequin Evening Gown
#4852

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9908 - c. 1980s BOB MACKIE "Flamenco" Red Chenille Roses on Black Lace Gown Sequin and Beaded Gown!  Need something special to wear to make him want to learn to Tango? Oh baby! I like to think I specialize in Bob Mackie gowns as I believe his early gowns are works of art! So I've seen quite a few of his pieces.  This particular gown is one of the most unique! Still seems to be a fairly early piece, as it has the same label as the best netted gowns.  Exciting sexy "flamenco" gown with red chenille "roses" embroidered all over the black lace with black sequins for sparkle.  The sleeves are the best part!  WAY off the shoulders dripping with long black beaded fringe at elbows! Form fitted shapely gown (see the seaming at back of skirt!). Nude rayon layer under black lace and then lined in silk.  Excellent condition.  Bring out the senorita in you!  Measures: 36" bust (wide shoulders necessary!), 26/27" waist, up to 38" hips, 2" hem, 57.5" long from shoulder to hem.    

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9930 - c. 1980's BOB MACKIE Gold Beaded Gown on Black Net with Scattered Rhinestones!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9913 - c. 1967/1968 Ivory Silk Chiffon Gown with Golden Beaded Bodice and Matching Ivory Wool Caftan Coat! Moroccan Look!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9959 - c. 1980's BOB MACKIE  Beaded Gown on Printed Silk!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4962 - c. 1885 RARE Black and Copper Fully Beaded Zouave Bolero Jacket! Wearable Size!

#4736 - c. 1906 RARE DATED October 16, 1906 Wool Side Saddle Habit with Provenance on Original Label for Mrs. Winslow Clark! WEARABLE SIZE!!

#6018- c. 1930's Exquisite Floral Design of Gold Sequins and Beading on Black Net Bolero!

#6376 - c. 1919-1922 RARE REVILLE, London Black Chantilly Lace Cape! 

#4950 - c. 1910-1914 Black Chantilly Lace Evening Wrap Cape Trimmed in Gold Bullion Lace and Tassels! One of the MOST Extraordinary Shawls! 

#4722 - c. 1902 REDFERN, Paris Trained Evening Gown of Black Chantilly Lace and Heavily Trimmed in Black Paillettes!

#6241 - c. 1890's The John Shillito Co., Cincinatti Royal Purple Wool Walking Gown Covered in Elaborate Black Soutache!

#6233 - c. 1902/1903 Open Weave Military Design Slightly Trained Walking Suit!

#6242 - c. 1904 Rare and Beautiful "Military Style" Tailored Royal Blue Wool, Angora and Velvet 2-piece Trained Walking Suit!  

#4260 - c. 1879 RARE Trained Red Wool Embroidered At Home Robe with Watteau Back with Actual Cabinet Card Photograph of Original Owner!

#4534 - c. 1895/6 Museum Quality Champagne Embroidered Silk Taffeta Dressing Gown! Near Mint Condition!

#6056 - c. 1922 Black Silk Crepe, Lace and Jet Beaded Flapper Dress! Good Size!

#4453 - c. 1924 RARE Molyneux, 5 Rue Royale, Paris Fully Beaded Flapper Dress of Genuine Turquoise Beads on Black Crepe Silk! Larger Size!

#4496 - c. 1927/28 Museum Quality Sequin Peacock Design Flapper Dress! Made in France or Belgium! 

#4764 - c. early 1920's Deco Electric Blue Beaded and Sequin Flapper Overdress! Likely Made in Paris or Belgium!

#4670 - c. 1911 JACQUES DOUCET, Paris Elaborately Beaded Chiffon Evening Gown! An exquisitely beautiful and rare elaborate evening gown of wedgewood-blue/gray silk chiffon heavily embroidered in small coral and large "white-heart" beads over matching blue/gray satin with matching velvet sash.  Pink satin accentuates the neckline and upper back and gold metallic lace adorns the bodice front and back and inner sleeve.  There are so many things wrong with this piece, that it's really only for study or display.  Ah, where to start with the issues... The joke is that this gown must have been was worn on the Titanic and the label faded from the saltwater ocean during the sinking! :)  However, the true story is almost more unbelieveable....  long story short, the Doucet label has been drawn over!  It is guaranteed Doucet, but the preservationist somehow ruined the label and then tried to cover her mistake by inking her own!!!  Unbelievable but true! I was told she ended up with mental issues!!  I'm right behind her after seeing what she did to this label!  Get me that straightjacket!  Anyway, guess she was the one who also reinforced the bodice with netting to keep the shredded silk lining from getting worse, though it's still a mess inside the bodice. The skirt is unlined. The exterior of the gown has missing coral beads here and there and larger missing beads from the decorative ornaments at back waist. The wedgewood-blue/gray silk chiffon and underdress of matching satin are in decent condition.  This gown is only for study or display. I can only sell this as "attributed to" Doucet until, or unless I find an etching of this Doucet model in some old fashion magazine.  NOTE: No Returns on this gown to preserve condition "as is".   

SOLD

Approx. - SIZE minus 00 - preteen size
(check measurements above)

#6245 - c. 1882 Wedding Bustle Gown of Ivory Satin with Pearls and Silk Confetti Fringe! Back Lacing! Long Train! 

#3974 - c. 1879 VIROLLEAU & CANIVET, Paris Navy-hued Black Velvet Beaded Bustle Gown! Ah, where do I start on this gown?? This is one of the most amazing beaded creations I've seen! I guess we have to start with a pause .. (one-one thousand, two-one thousand... ) to just sit and have you appreciate the incredible look of this gown! All the fabulous decoration you see is jet beading on both the front and back of this amazing Parisian creation. Now once you get your breath back, we can go on... because there are problems... mostly in the interior but that's what keeps the price affordable for a gown of this caliber. The first few letters of the label is missing, but I've been assured by the previous owner that the correct designer name is Virolleau & Canivet. The important "Paris" and the address is still readable as: 143 Place de la Bourse, Paris. There are large velvet side panels that were added to the bodice to increase the size. These panels match perfectly, but are unbeaded, and don't really show when displayed or worn as they are hidden beneath the wide sleeves and beaded cuffs. The lining inside the bodice is a mess as you can see in the photo. Navy hued velvet. The beading on the skirt is in fabulous condition... though there are missing beads to the tasseled fringe. There is wear to the velvet at the skirt waist. Lovely "v" shaped crenellated hemline on lower unbeaded "underskirt"! Measures: 41" long skirt from waist to hem. If you don't expect perfection you will be thrilled!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3715 - c. 1885 Black Jet Beaded Bodice with Original Tiered Chantilly Lace Skirt Bustle Reception Gown! So the Vanderbilts have now invited you to the formal dinner party. You plan to go with your new filthy rich beau and need to look the part! You were smart enough to have this little number was hanging in your closet for this very type of occasion. Total high society outfit! The bodice material is called grenadine (like a heavy netting) which is "embroidered" with jet beads all over.. and trimmed in black chenille for decoration at the sides! The black chantilly lace of the skirt is echoed at the neck and cuffs. Pretty little bowknots of yellow faille ribbon add a hint of color at the collar and cuffs. The all chantilly lace skirt has six tiers and bustles up at the back. Photographed with a bustle undergarment (not include). Measures: 30" bust, 23" waist, 36" long from waist to hem. There are some browning threads of the beading, but it's still overall Very Good to Excellent condition. And an absolute dream to look at!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4691- c. 1882 LEVILLON, Paris Burgundy Façonné Floral Rose Velvet, Cream Satin and Alençon Lace Trained Evening Reception Gown!  Wearable Size!

#4815 - c. 1893 EMILE PINGAT, Paris Museum Quality 2-Tone Beaded Dusty Rose Wool and Silk Velvet Mantelette with Striped Balls and Feather Fringe! 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3622 - c. 1884 2-piece Brocade and Taffeta Afternoon Bustle Gown! So perfect, it could be a doll. Elegant grey/green and muted red create a lovely brocade, trimmed in grey/green taffeta with a double pleated ruffle at the hemline, back bustle and apron front. Collectable on their own are the 16 buttons of alabaster with bronze overlay. Lace cuffs. Excellent condition with just the skirt waistband shredding for some unknown reason since the rest of the materials are strong, and like new! If you pressed me, I might tell you that there are extreme minor spots, but really, other than the waistband, it would be hard to find it in better condition after 120 years. Photographed with bustle undergarment (not included). Measures: 30" bust, 23" waist, 37" long from waist to hem.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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c. 1893
CONNELL, Chicago
Warp Print Taffeta Evening Gown
#3253

#3097 - c. 1885 Deep Moss Green 2-piece Silk Satin Winter Afternoon Bustle Gown! MINT CONDITION... Looks UNWORN! Like a throwback to another time... makes you feel like you just stepped into a time tunnel... or you are in your own version of "Somewhere in Time" since you won't believe the condition of this 120-year-old bustle gown.  The color is so hard to describe, and I had to lighten the color to show any detail.... but it's a dark deep moss green... but not a yellowish green.. more blueish, but not quite.  Not an army green, not an olive green, not brown, more well... just an elegant moss green.  Yeah, I know.. this doesn't help, but it's a great deep color... really!  Amazingly, even though this is a teeny-tiny gown with a 29" bust... it has padded cups as well as lightly padded sleeves to keep the wearer warm!!!! Has all the original interior bustle ties, and even an interior pocket in the skirt. All the 17 outstanding set of steel 3-D buttons are present on the bodice.  Check out the low slung bow a the side of the skirt and the pleated hemline, not to mention the yards of draping on the skirt. Measures: 29" bust, 23" waist, 24" skirt waist, 39" long from waist to hem.  Near Mint condition.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#9712 - c. 1880's Teal Silk Dressing Gown, Wrapper or Robe d'Chambre with Intricate Petti-Embroidery Paisley, Fabulous Passementerie Dangles and Watteau Trained Back!! Museum Quality! I love getting items from family when the provenance is SO wrong! It's funny! Luckily some family members understand the old "telephone" game where you tell someone a short story and "pass it down"... and the story ends up totally different at the end of a short line of people. Imagine how messed up family stories can get over 100+ years! However, some family members will NOT listen! It's amazing! They show me a 1950's dress and tell me their Grandmother wore it in 1920! And when I tell them that's likely impossible, they tell me I'm wrong. Oh well... I find it humorous! :) Anyway.. the family story for this gown was: "A pre-1900 evening gown that was worn by my great grandmother to an Inaugural Ball." However this same woman told me that her dad had a 3" scar on his forehead "from the war." It wasn't until I she was in her 40's that she found out it was from a neighbor kid who hit him with a 2 x 4! See... I LOVE this stuff! :) Anyway.. the dressing gown or home gown is an absolute beauty! It is a beautiful dark teal green heavy silk with fabulous watteau back and museum quality petti-embroidered paisley trim! You HAVE to look at the paisley very closely to even notice that it's embroidered! Awesome! The dozens of passementerie dangles seem to be everywhere, even on the cuffs! Even the 40 steel cut buttons down front are lovely (one missing middle). Unfortunately there are some problems. the underarm staining, minor dark spots, and "mud" spot on the train are forgiveable, but there is a pinwheel shape tear at the back of the lower gown that will need repair to look nearly perfect (see photo). Measures: 38" bust, 13.5" across back, 55" long from shoulder to hem in front, 64" long in back. At my 5'2" it touches the ground in front. This gown belongs in a museum for the paisley and unique-designed upper watteau back! (Sorry I didn't press this gown better!!!! I was too lazy. Bad Deborah!).

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#4757 - c. early 1870's 4-piece Light Coffee Colored Silk Taffeta Trained Afternoon or Reception Bustle Gown! Looks Unworn!  Comes with the Original Bustle "Buskette"! Perhaps "she" tried it on for the big event she was scheduled to attend, but at the last minute she wasn't able to go.. or... this was intended as a wedding gown for a poor bride whose intended got cold feet, or worse.  But it's been beautifully preserved over the last 130+ years and looks practically new!  De-assessioned from a Denver museum, from the Griggs-Black collection.  The gown is three pieces.. the underskirt, the overskirt with train and the button-front bodice with great 3-D silk  decorative buttons (see photo).  Wonderful shaping to the bodice includes the bell sleeves with three matching bows on each bell, and tailored peplum. The bows are echoed on the overskirt.  The back bustle includes large crossed tab tails!  Quite unique!  In addition you get the original brass and wire bustle pad!  The interior of the bodice is a polished cotton and again looks unworn. Mint condition. Measures: 29" bust, 24" waist, 40" long skirt in front, 55" long in back, 19" long overskirt in front, 38" in back, 14" across bodice back between armseams.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#4161 - c. 1867 Lovely Summer White Cotton Print Gown! Crisp, white cotton one piece voile dress is printed with light aqua and brown fuchsia flowers in Amazing condition!!! The gown is all hand stitched and trimmed with linen bobbin lace. The bodice is lined in white linen and comes with a separate modesty neckline insert (very sexy to wear without the panel! :). There is a deep side pocket in the skirt & a small watch pocket at the waist. One small brown stain in front, 2 pin holes in skirt, a few period mends but truly Excellent condition.. hard to believe it's this great for age!! You'll believe you stepped back in time as the material is as crisp and clean as new! Shown with hoop and slip under, but doesn't come with that. Sorry! Just the great sheer dress! Measures: 33/34" bust, 26" waist (but it's short waisted, but hooks can be moved a bit to fit), Measures: 44" long from waist to hem in front, 55" long from waist to hem in back., 12" across back between armseams, so no wide backs. I have a fairly small back, but wear a normal size 6.. and it's do-able for me.. if I stand up straight! :)

c. 1870/1880
EMILE PINGAT, Paris
Velvet Beaded Dolman Cape
#2788

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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SOLDSOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#4848 - c. 1887 EMILE PINGAT, Paris Red Bengaline Mantel Dripping with Black Jet Beading!  As you may know, Pingat was know for his elaborate surface decoration ... and often relied on beading to make his pieces stand out... and that is what this mantle is all about! A fairly basic red bengaline mantle... waist length in back and nearly knee length at front.  And just like a cape, it just wraps around the arms, but there is also an extra length of material at the front of the sleeve. OK.. that's the basics.  Now comes the fancy black jet beading passementerie.  Large spiral circles cover front and back and around bottom.  Oh, and then... ta-da... The incredible jet black beaded fringe!!  Short in back, and extremely long in front!  The collar frill is of horsehair lace (with some fading into red at the back of the lace).  Basically excellent condition  "as is", that means that there are a few issues... the fact that the lining is gone, but label remains.  Most all of the beading in intact including most all of the long heavy jet bead fringe, however you can see that the thread holding on all the beads has turned to brown, so.... you will need to do some re-stringing from time to time.  Not difficult, just time-consuming. Guaranteed Pingat!!! A showpiece for the woman who wore it.  Especially in RED!  Hmmmm.... a high-priced woman of the evening perhaps??  Getting Parisian designer goods from her "customers"?  Hmmmmm. :)  If this were in Mint condition, the price would triple! So for those of you who don't mind beading when necessary... it's a steal! 

$ 1,885. SOLD

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display
c. 1911
Embroidered Fancy White Lawn Dress
#3625

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#3783 - c. 1908 Rare White Lace Lingerie Gown with Peach/Pink Silk Mull Lining! It is nearly impossible to find these white lace gowns with the original tissue thin silk linings still intact. One of the major reasons, besides the fact that the silk is extremely fragile, is that the silk lining would have to be removed from the gown to clean, and then replaced. Many times, they were just not replaced. Now... take your time looking at the amazing lace gown! Details include: Irish lace, appliques, dripping crochet balls at bell sleeves, high neck, ruffled hem, chevron lace design, etc, etc. Too many amazing details to mention. Just look. Excellent condition except for two small age marks (see photos) and small tears in the silk mull lining. If you decide to wear this gown, you will want to remove the lining and store away. The neck on the dressform is large, so I didn't want to stress the dress to close in closeups. Measures: 33-35" bust, 26/27" waist, 57" long from shoulder to hem in front, 59" long from shoulder to hem in back. A gown to die for!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3893 - c. 1909 Black Dotted Silk Edwardian Gown with Great Detailing! Near Mint condition! Had to say that upfront as it's so hard to find! Gorgeous detailing on this black dotted silk gown. Heavily embroidered on net panels with 3-d rosettes in what I believe are stylized daisy and sunflowers. Runched sleeves with same design. High neck with celluloid stays. Front and back of gown dripping in triple ball tassels. I've had to lighten the color to see details.. but the gown is all black with no color change on the embroidered panels. Three layers of fabric... the dotted silk, black gauze under and taffeta under that. Only issue I found was one heel tear in back lining - so she wore it... once. Measures 34" bust 25" waist, 58" long in front shoulder to hem, and 66" long in back. Gorgeous gown. Go back in time as the condition will make you feel like you bought it new!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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SOLD

#0157 - c. 1925 JEAN PATOU Paris, Cannes, Monte Carlo Couture Numbered Ecru and Black Silk Velvet Flapper Party Dress Trimmed in Rhinestones and Faux Pearls! Larger Size!

#4994 - c. 1926 Exceptional Museum Quality Navy Silk Beaded Afternoon Dress!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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$ 465. SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE Small/Medium
(check measurements above)

c. 1950's
Ballgown with Rhinestones
#2727
 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9665 - c. 1990 - 2000 EAVIS & BROWN, London Platinum Colored Silk Embroidered and Pearl Beaded Dress Jacket! Yes.. Eavis & Brown, the famous English Couturier team who created Heather McCartney's (you know, the new Mrs. Paul McCartney) wedding gown. The gown took months to create, and was said to be worth 19,000 Euros (that's $25,000!). Their designs and beading are phenomenal! And oh baby.. how I LOVE this jacket!!! I must have tried it on 20 times... each time hoping that it would somehow fit me.. this time. That it would magically shrink to my size. However, I finally had to come to the realization that it's too large for me, and I will have to pass this on to someone else. (Excuse me a moment while I weep uncontrollably.... Waaaaahhhhhh!) OK... now if you are a lucky size 10, it's a blush blue/silver color silk (which I called platinum) encrusted with faux pearls and lightly colored pink, blue and ecru silk embroidery. The shape of the jacket is just what I love... fitted through the waist and flared out (like a skating skirt) especially at back. Measures: 36-38" bust, up to 32" waist, 31" long from shoulder to hem, 24" arm from shoulder to cuff. Small padded shoulders. Near mint condition! This jacket is the worthy of royalty... and likely cost MUCH more than this new!!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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SOLD on LAYAWAY
#6659 - c. 1920's White Filet Lace and Floral Embroidered Dress!   Perfectly white.  Mint condition. And with fabulous embroidery front and back.  Easily wearable size and can be made smaller with just a quick extra gather at each hip, so it can be one of those heirloom pieces you can keep in your family for generations to come.  Measures:  up to 46" bust, up to 43" waist, up to 43" hips, 45" long from shoulder to hem. There are no closures, just goes on over the head.  Shown on a size 6 mannequin.. it's a bit large on her, but not bad with the gathering at the hips.  The dress is meant to be worn oversized, but some of you will prefer it fitting closer.  OK.. now for the fun part.  These overdresses are as versatile as you want!  Wear over a nude slip for this look, or wear over white for a muted look.  Wear over light blue or pink for a sweet look, or over black for a total transformation! Then... you can also wear a longer underdress so this becomes a tunic.  Perhaps wear a long satin slip under for your wedding ceremony and switch to a short slip for the reception.  Cool, huh?? Whatever you want. But if you want the best... this is it!

$ 295. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 10/12 (smallish hips)
(check measurements above)

$ 545.  SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#4043 - c. 1911 Brown Wool Ratine Suit with Passementerie Trim! Great tailoring! Great details! Great stitching! Great velvet trim! Even includes the attached passementerie "necklace"! All it needs is a steaming (so sorry I photographed it without dealing with that. Please try to imagine the suit without wrinkles!) I mean, really!! Other than that, Excellent condition! Oh, and look at that skirt! I've never seen such interesting tailoring.. looks like an overskirt in the front, and then on the side, it turns into horizontal pleating, and then back to the vertical! That's genius! The back seam of the jacket is top-stitched, and the detailed button back is perfectly decorative. Brown top-stitched cotton velvet trim at collar and cuffs. Take a look at the fashionable 1912 etching which shows the enormous hats of the era to be worn with the tailored suit. Measures: 34-36" bust, 24" waist, up to 40" hips, 40" long skirt from waist to hem. Skirt is unlined. Ratine is a fiber with an uneven, pebbled surface.. this suit is a striped ratine. Really lovely fabric with a silky sheen., perhaps a wool/silk blend. (Any light spots you are are due to the camera, not really there!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9838 - c. 1860's  Handmade Black Chantilly Lace "Collar"/Shawl! - Bolero Shape! Near Mint condition!  SO pretty! From the same estate as the other wonderful handmade Chantilly lace pieces... this is perhaps my favorite. OK, it IS my favorite, but I didn't want the other pieces to hear me say that! So please... don't repeat it outloud as you are scrolling through this page. Shhh!  This looks like an open circle with cut front when laid out flat. When worn, you can see how pretty the bodice... and a lovely drape at the back. Floral design.  Measures: 40" around the inner circle, 7" wide. 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9834 - c. late 1860's Huge Black Handmade Chantilly Lace Shawl! Near Mint condition! Take note!  There is machine made Chantilly lace... and then there is handmade, handstitched Chantilly lace.   BIG difference!!  This incredible Handmade Chantilly black lace shawl comes directly from a Greenwich, CT estate - you know Greenwich?  Where the REALLY rich people live! :) Probably the wealthiest community in the entire USA. Just to give you some idea of the quality! :)  The design is exquisite, both floral and transitioning into the more geometric styles of the 1870's/1880's. Measures: 110" wide x 57" at longest point of triangular shape. Near Mint condition.  Has two short seams that need to be rejoined. This alone will confirm it is handmade.  As stated in the "Secrets of Real Lace" book, "Huge pieces of Chantilly lace, including shawls, were produced by making the lace in strips 4-5" wide, and joining them with ingenious invisible stitching.... What appears to be tears is just the Chantilly coming apart at the seams.  The original method of joining the strips - a technique known as "raccroc" can be done by using extremely fine tread, such as silk organzine."  I could probably fix the two short breaks, but I like to sell "as is" so the experts can do what they wish. 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9830 - c. 1860's Handmade Black Chantilly Lace Fichu with Long Lappets! For the wealthiest women of the era... only handmade laces would do! This is the "creme de la creme" of the Chantilly lace collection from this Greenwich, CT estate.  Incredibly long that even my adjustable dressform couldn't get tall enough for the entire length of this piece.  Measures:  174" end to end.  The lappet sections are 36" each attached to the 102" long fichu collar.  The design is another gem.. this one of floral bouquets.  Can be worn crossed over at front or just belted at waist.  See photos for other ways to wear it. An heirloom piece to cherish.  Excellent, near Mint condition. 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD

#4549 - c. 1930's Black Crepe Gown with Extraordinary Coral Print Lame Embroidered Sleeves and Neckline! LARGER SIZE! Unfortunately, my poor mannequin has no arms (the fact that she has no head is a whole other issue for the poor dear!)... but if she did have arms, you would see that these sleeves actually are worn pushed up at the elbow so the pool at the mid-arm making it look almost like a short bell sleeve.  The skirt is bias with extra gores for a bit of "mermaid" fullness at the lower third. The belt buckle is a fabulous double carved coral with rhinestones!!  So elegant!!  The printed coral deco floral design is embroidered with gold lame floss for that great shine.  Excellent condition, though in bright light you will see extreme minor reddening of the black crepe at upper back (I tried to photograph!).  Since it's a bias cut, it's nearly impossible to measure anything... however, the best measures 35"! 60" long from shoulder to hem.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3099 - c. 1911 Black Jacquard Silk and Metallic Net Lace Trained Evening Gown Trimmed in Rhinestones, Finished with Heavy Beaded Triple Tassel Ornament! Wearable Size!

- Info already listed on page

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#1057 - c. 1930's WORTH Burgundy Velvet Opera Coat!! If you know Antique Clothing, you know WORTH. This extraordinarily soft burgundy velvet coat has extraordinary detailing... .just what you'd expect of a Worth piece. The coat has the Worth Label and coordinating numbered tag under the label. I can't guarantee the date of this piece. It COULD be 1890's from the sleeve style and the catalog number, however the style of the construction of this piece relates much more to the 1930's. I've had this coat/label confirmed by an expert as authentic. The condition is NEAR MINT on the exterior... all the velvet and detailing. I've never seen a more luxurious treatment of velvet than on this garment's collar! The sleeves are "leg-o-mutton" in style with large puffs all the way to the elbow. The "buckle" design in velvet is masterful. Matching burgundy silk lining.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#6010 - c. 1900 Fabulous Off-White Lace Jacket / Coat! Larger Size!   I'd love to give you a name for this lace, but I'm afraid I failed "Lace 101", so I only know a few basic laces.  One of my customers, Rita, suggests it may be Venetian Rose Point.  That's more than I know, so.... I just call it a fancy 3-D openwork daisy design lace with tiny flat saucers (think little UFO's) at the edges.   There are no closures on the piece, just open down the front.  There are slits in the sides and in the sides of the slight bell sleeves. It's just the perfect piece for your closet.  Very wearable.  Can be worn with your Gibson / Edwardian era duds, or over a modern sheathe dress (try all sorts of possible colors!), or with a pair of jeans or evening pants... heck, it would even work as a bathing suit coverup!  Take it on your next vacation!  Belt it, pin it closed, keep it open.  Loads of possibilities. Near mint condition.  Measures:  up to 38" bust, up to 34" waist, up to 43" hips, 38" long from shoulder to hem, 14" slits at sides, 10" slit at back.  Excellent, near mint condition. Color is just off-white. Can be worn by a small gal just as well as a medium sized gal. Looks fine on me at size 4.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#1196 - c. 1895 Parisian Grey Silk and Beaded Fancy Ball Gown! Morin Blossier - rue Daunou, Paris Label! Yes... it's true.. I nearly tackled a guy to purchase this gown! At an antique show... this was purchased by someone two minutes before I was going to purchase.. but did I let that stop me? I asked the dealer who bought it and she pointed to him out on the sidewalk....and I asked if he would he sell it to me. To my delight, he said OK. Anyway, now that you have the complete story, if you've been able to read all this and keep your eyes off the dress. Excellent condition heavy grey silk satin 2-piece gown with huge sleeves with black chiffon over. The same black chiffon at neck line and then comes the beading... black and steel beads dangling in a scalloped pattern on the front of the skirt and both front and back of bodice! Completely intact!!! How is that possible!!! Lined in grey silk in remarkably good condition (just a few minor splits but still fairly strong). The beading has oxidized with the fabric in storage and there are "phantom" bead marks on the silk (see photos).. mostly under the beading. However, there is one area on the front of the skirt that must have touched beads in storage and that is marked as well. If perfect, would be in a museum, or sold at Doyle's Auction House in NYC.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#6028 - c. 1950's CEIL CHAPMAN Ecru Lace Dress! You know Ceil Chapman dresses are coveted. But some just fall short of capturing her true talents.  I think she just burned out after a while, and some of the later dresses aren't as special.  Just my take on it.  So my job is to find the best Ceil Chapman dresses!  Ecru lace fitted bodice dress with off-the-shoulder short sleeves and full skirt.  The skirt has lovely graduated pleated shell design amidst the lace.  Metal zipper at back.  Near Mint condition. Measures: 33/34" bust, 25/26" waist, 25" long from waist to hem. Meant to be worn fitted.  No Wide Backs! But Wide Shoulders will keep the sleeves up better.  Shown with extra crinoline under.  Also shown with ribbon waist and flower - just for fun - doesn't come with it. 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4463 - c. 1940's ADRIAN Perfect Gray Flannel Suit! Best grey lightweight flannel wool suit you will ever find! In "British Samek Material". The beauty of this suit is in the details.... Some of which are so subtle as to barely be seen, but it's a masterpiece of tailoring! Square shouldered, nipped in waist, three button front, notched collar... and then the fabulous "ribbon" detail of the same material which creates a "V" design at back. Now.. look even closer... and you will slightly see what looks like phantom ribbon designs in various places. Two wrap around the upper arms, one creates a horizontal "v" at front shoulder and front bust. Joan Crawford's broad-shouldered look was created by Adrian... so this is a classic Adrian design! Measures: 34/35" bust, 26" waist, up to 37" hips, 29" long skirt with 3.5" hem. Fully lined jacket Near mint condition except for one moth hole about 5" up from hem on skirt. Worth an invisible weave for this classic collectable suit!.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4748 - c. Fall 1995 GEOFFREY BEENE Dark Gray Wool Knit Dress with Fringed Mohair Shawl Coat. Photographed as Plate 121 in the "Geoffrey Beene: The Anatomy of this Work" book by Brenda Cullerton! I know this is a collectable outfit, but you will be hard-pressed not to wear the coat!!! SOOOOO soft and cozy.... like wearing a bathrobe... Yet extremely rich and classy looking on. The dress is a back zippered sexy, tight-fitted hourglass shape knit... simple, basic, except for the "bit of whimsy bra" which matches the boucle of the coat. Measures: up to 38" bust, up to 32" waist, up to 40" hips (even though it's labeled size 6!), 39" long from shoulder to hem. The coat is unmeasureable, but just a smidge shorter than the dress and in a wrap style. Marked size 4 but certainly easily wearable up to a 10ish. Mint condition.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4357 - c. 2000's GEORGIO ARMANI Black Label Silk Cutwork Velvet Fancy Jacket! $4,775 Original Price Still Attached! My mother recently said "Why don't they make beautiful clothing anymore?" I happened to have this jacket with me at the time. I pulled it out for her to see, and she said "Wow.. Like that!!". I told her the real answer. They still DO make beautiful clothing these days... you just have to pay top price... unless, of course, you buy it here for more than 80% off original price!! Gorgeous, amazing, unique evening jacket of black silk velvet with sweeping floral cutwork over what looks like a white linen! Mandarin (chinese) shape of the black satin trim with the self-covered buttons. Oriental flare to the design as well. Wear with flowing black or white satin pants! For those of you who love to be "dressed" without wearing a dress! Would be equally perfect over jeans! Labeled size 42. Excellent condition. Measures: 34/35" bust, up to 36" hips best, though can be larger if you don't mind the back vent opening, 33" long from shoulder to hem.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3247 - c. 1950's CLAIRE McCARDELL Silk Mini Pleated Dress! Claire McCardell was the innovator in easily wearable clothing, and this one is qui

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3534 - c. late 1940's Collectable CLAIRE MCCARDELL Striped Cotton Dress! One of the nicest Claire McCardell dresses I've seen for sale. Ms. McCardell has been named as one of America's most influential designers. In 1955, one of only three fashion designers to grace the cover of Time Magazine. And with good reason. Claire's career took off in 1940 when she returned to Townley Frocks to design under her own label. Over the next 18 years, she pioneered "American Sportswear", designing practical clothing for women with practical lives. She used simple fabrics like cotton, denim, gingham and jersey and often used closures with nearly industrial hooks. This cotton dress proves what a forward thinker she was.. has all the classic elements: a cotton print that has a distinctive American Southwest feel to it, a fitted bodice with comfortable inset 'Mutton Chop" style sleeves; and a full skirt. The closures are indeed the oversized brass hooks and eyes (a classic McCardell detail.) Excellent condition, however it would have been worn with a belt that is now missing. Measures: 34/35" bust, 25" waist, 26" long from waist to hem (with additional 3" - so it was likely hemmed up). A collectable museum classic... or perfectly wearable if you prefer!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#4621 - c. 1965 EXTREMELY RARE SIMONETTA & FABIANI Light Off-White Wool Coat! The Italian Duchesa Simonetta Colonna di Cesaro (yup, a real Duchess!) married designer Alberto Fabiani (her second husband) in 1953. However they followed their own separate careers until they merger for their French Haute Couture label "Simonetta et Fabiani, Paris" in 1962. In 1965 Simonetta moved back to Rome, so this label only lasted for 3 years! Rare piece indeed!! Second label under reads "1006". As written... Simonetta is fast becoming a legend. As beautiful as any of her models, she and her family were imprisoned several items by Mussolini during WWII, but always dreamed of opening her own couture house. Finally at 24 years old, she established herself as the youngest, but most exciting designers in Italy. She is best known for clothes that are sophisticated, dramatic and cleanly cut. And is especially famous for her coats, which are almost always tent-shaped. Her husband, Fabiani was best known for consistently elegant and superlative workmanship. This coat tailoring evokes the mod styling of Pierre Cardin and Extremely heavy off-white fuzzy wool coat with great tailoring and seaming! With large wooden buttons, I believe! Wide-bodied shape tapers a bit at bottom. Two vertical pockets at front. 3/4 length sleeves. Fully lined. Excellent condition... with just a two light areas of dirt, and extreme minor wear just to the top fuzz layer of the wool (see close-up photos). Still rates 9.8 out of 10! Measures: 39" long. Nearly impossible to measure as it's supposed to be worn oversized, and depends on what you wear under. Similarly tailored Fabiani coat was photographed for Oct 1, 1965 Vogue.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9720 - c. 1930's Royal Blue Silk Satin Embroidered Concubine Coat wih Mongolian Lamb Lining! Wearable Size! Oh baby ... break out the shaggy sheepskin Mongolian Boots and a pair of skintight matching off-white jeans or leggings and perhaps an off-white cashmere turtleneck and top with this amazingly beautiful coat! Damn! What an outfit!!! You will stop traffic! Or just wear with blue jeans for a more casual look, or a body-hugging off-white dress for the theatre. Certainly there are lots of oriental coats and kimonos out there to wear.. many from the 1960's which are paper silk and not nearly as beautiful as these older orientalia. And I have never seen one before with the Mongolian lamb fur lining! It gives it a very special flare! Here's the info... royal blue silk satin coat with white embroidered roses and scattered sakura, medallions of peonies and chrysanthemums. The sleeve bands and side vents are of white satin with black silk embroidery. Excellent condition with just a hint of wear. Measures: 34-36" bust, 40" long from shoulder to hem. 3/4 length sleeves.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#9708 - c. 1970 RARE NORMAN NORELL for I. Magnin & Co. Plum Brown Silk Velvet and White Mink Coat with Original Belt! As written in the Doyle Auction catalog.... "Original model, shirtwaist design, fitted bodice, straight sleeve., full gathered skirt, self buttons down center front and three inch wide self belt at waist, four inch wide cuff and collar of white mink and voluminous eighteen inch wide hemline border, deep pockets in side seams, line in matching silk taffeta, size 6/8, labeled: Norell and Denise 420." Excellent condition. Sold by Doyle's with an auction estimate of $4,000-6,000! This is one of those vintage pieces that will absolutely increase in value! An investment piece! The only issue to note is that the belt is a bit tired, otherwise in lovely condition! Measures: 34/35" bust, up to 31" waist, 49" long from shoulder to hem. NEW LISTING! Also listed in the Museum Section.SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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$ 1,485. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6 - 10
(check measurements above

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#2656 - c. 1890 4-Piece Linen Bathing Outfit!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4368 - c. 1939 WOOLF Bros. Hunter Green Wool Evening Coat with Copper Metallic Embroidery! I have NEVER seen a more beautiful 1930's coat! I can just imagine Katherine Hepburn in this piece. Beautiful hunter green wool. Princess lines. Just the start of the padded shouldered 1940's. And oh, what glorious copper metallic embroidery down the front from neckline to waist. Please look at the close-up photos of the embroidery! Easier than explaining. Measures: 34-36" bust, up to 30" waist, up to 38" hips, high underarms, fairly skinny sleeves, 59" long from shoulder to hem. Don't hesitate... buy it on layaway, or ask your boyfriend, husband, mother, sister, boss... anyone... to buy it for you!!!! Excellent condition. Fully lined. Meant to be worn fitted to to body, so don't expect lots of room like a modern coat.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3128 - c. 1947 High-Style "New Look" Black Wool Coat with Mouton Lamb Trim! As Dior as you can get without a Dior label. This is a high style late 1940's black wool coat - which still has the original storage tag that reads "Mrs. Dale Littlefield". The coat the fitted bodice with a large mouton lamb collar, with very full skirt, and very wide mouton lamb cuffs. The coat is lined in black silk and closes down the front with large black buttons. It has a black satin sash belt with belt buckle made of wool and trimmed with mouton lamb along the edges. This coat is in excellent condition. There is no moth hole damage. The lining is also in excellent condition. This is a very wearable coat. Measures: 34/35" bust, 28" waist, 23" long sleeves (they are long!), 45" long from shoulder to hem with up to 5" extra in hem. It was obviously hemmed up and can easily be taken down, but I'm leaving for you since it will need a pressing either way. Just try to find a better looking coat these days!!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#0193 - c. 1920's Silk Velvet Party Dress Trimmed in Bright Rhinestones! People often ask me if it's hard to sell my clothing... being a collector at heart. I always give the party line (that I try to convince myself is really true)... that I'm OK with it. But that's only on my good days. On my bad days, I wonder what the heck I'm doing! How can I let these beauties out of my life??? Am I nuts? Luckily for you, the bad days are few and far between... so I take the photographs and the dresses go up on the website! But then when I look at the photos, I fall in love all over again and I want to buy back my own stuff! :) Yup, I'm nuts! So I have a black silk velvet dress for you with deep scalloped hemline. Barely there tiny cap scalloped sleeves trimmed in rhinestones. Slightly dropped waist has three bands of the same scalloped design in brilliant rhinestones. I photographed the dress with a crinoline slip under in some photos, and no crinoline under in others. You can tell from the numbering system, that it's a low number which means I've owned this for quite a while, so you are going to have to treat her well!! Or else! Excellent condition, near mint. Measures: 34/35" bust, 29/30" waist, 42-46" long from shoulder to hemline. Side snap closure.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#2784 - c. 1924 EMERY BIRD THAYER CO., Kansas City Black Silk Flapper Robe de Style Dress!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4186 - c. 1951 NETTIE ROSENSTEIN Black Taffeta "Little Black Dress"! 1947 Coty Award Winner. In 1937, Life Magazine profiled Nettie Rosenstein as one of the most revered American Designers. Lord & Taylor issued Rosenstein an award in 1938. Her clothing ranged from $89.50 to an astounding $795. Her specialty was grand, as well as more casual evening clothes. And, not surprising when looking at this dress.... Nettie Rosenstein is credited with having invented the "little black dress", creating black dresses in daytime lengths, but by the dressy detailing and bare necklines, could be worn to most evening occasions. This dress has a definite Dior look to it! Amazingly tailored! Diagonal button closure, but with a zipper front closure under! The "shawl" is a separate pleated piece with attaches with hooks at front.. can be worn with or without. The dress comes with the original padded hip slip, do give the dress the appropriate shape. Wrap skirt ends in a large rounded "drape" which echoes the "drape" at the front heart-shaped bodice. Would have originally been worn with a thin black leather belt cinching in the waistline to the fashionable wasp waist. Measures: 36" bust, 26" waist, 32" long from waist to hem. Excellent condition, just needs hook/eye on slip.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3060 - c. 1980's JACQUES FATH, PARIS 1950's Style Black Velvet and Silk Evening Dress! At first glance, this is a 1950's dress... no question! However, it's really a 1980's version of a 1950's dress, by a top designer name... who frankly, probably originally did design this dress in the 1950's! Measures: Near Mint condition. Nothing wrong. Silk lining. Zipper cuffs. Measures: 32" bust, 25" waist, 35/36" hips, 24" long from natural waist to hem, 22" (shoulder seam to hem). One of the best dresses I've ever had! I would kill for this to fit me!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3934 - c. 1960's L'AIGLON Floral Lightweight Cotton Sundress! So fresh and beautiful! Has the classic "Audrey" bodice design with the high boatneck and bows at each shoulder strap, but finally I've found that look in something other than black! Yeah! And it couldn't be prettier. Perfect for the hottest weather... a thin, unlined, lightweight cotton print of pink and green roses bordered in pink, white and black blocks. Shown with a crinoline under which doesn't come with the dress. Back metal zipper. Measures: 34/35" bust, 27" waist, full hips, 28" long from waist to hem with 7" hem. Excellent condition with the only thing to mention that some paint has chipped off the pink metal zipper. Geez! No belt, but has belt loops (god only knows why! Certainly doesn't need a belt!). The best sundress on the internet!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3730 - c. 1950's The Best, Deadstock, Never Worn, "Lucy" Style, Fifties Dress... ever! I'm sorry, I don't usually hype a dress in the descriptive heading, but that really is the best way to describe this dress! If I was asked to find a dress that Lucy Ricardo would have worn on an early episode of “I Love Lucy”, this would have to be the one! Every detail from the gray silky atomic print fabric, to crisp white ribbed pique sleeve ends and Peter Pan collar with a velvet bow, to the extra full swing skirt with a built in crinoline, down to the double waisted dress with large patch pockets and skinny little belt.. it just screams Lucy! Or Deborah Kerr if you prefer! Extremely figure flattering style! Condition you ask?  Deadstock! Mint. With original tags! This darling dress has never been worn! Photographed with an additional crinoline under. If you have a 50's collection or museum, you need this dress. Measures: 32/33" bust, 23/24" waist, 28" long from natural waist to hem.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4867 - c. 1957 BALENCIAGA Lilac Lace Gown! 

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3867 - c. 1950's Rare SELINCOURT COUTURE, London Green Changeable Taffeta Hooped Ballgown! I almost fainted when I saw this gown for the first time. I purchased it a few months ago in London at a small Vintage Clothing show. I walked around the first time and saw nothing I wanted. OK, there were a few "nice" items, but nothing I couldn't live without... which means I figure you can live without it, so why buy it. Then I took the second look around and spotted this gown hiding at the back of one booth, tucked away, hanging on a hanger nearly fully covered by other items. Wow! I don't think the dealer really wanted to sell it, since it was so well camouflaged. I got it home and finally got to see it on a mannequin and flipped! Better than I even thought! You are seeing it "as is" without any additional crinolines under. The entire skirt is hooped to create this ballgown shape!! According to "History of 20th Century Fashion" by Elizabeth Ewing, Selincourt was originally Selincourt & Colman, founded in 1857. They began making coats, mantles and fur garments. A dress business was added later. The gowns were very high quality ready-to-wear, manufactured in limited editions. Eventually, Selincourt absorbed a number of other dress businesses, and today (as of 1987) they have fifteen subsidiaries, including three couture houses. Excellent condition except for dark spotting at the back hemline and inside hemline at back, and light water spot at hemline. I hope a museum can clean to make perfect, as it's certainly rare and museum worthy! Blue/green changeable silk taffeta with gathered bodice, gathered skirt front with two tired flowers. Back metal zipper. Measures: 34" bust, 24" waist, 29" long in front from waist to hem, 47" long in back. Boned bodice.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4380 - c. 1950's I. MAGNIN & Co., IMPORTERS Bright Massive Plaid Organza Gown with Matching Huge Scarf! Wow! OK, I admit it... when I first saw this gown off the mannequin I really was

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#3106 - c. late 1950's EDWARD ABBOTT / WILSON FOLMAR Orange Crinkle Metallic Cocktail Dress with Matching Cape! Amazing material. It's an orange and gold metallic crinkle rayon in a fairly heavy weight. Take a look at the bra cups sewn into the dress! Best for a small cup. Dress is structured and tailored, lined in orange silk. Coat is lined in orange rayon! From the era of "the sack" look... here's a combination of the popular oversized, poufy "oval" shape coat/cape, paired with the extremely form fitted, sexy as hell dress. I'd date it 1959. The coat/cape requires a woman with great "carriage" to pull it off... you know... if you are the type of woman who practices walking the runways in your bedroom late at night, then you have probably learned the posture. The dress, however, just requires a great figure. Measures: 34" bust, 25" waist, 34" hips. Back metal zipper. Edward Abbott / Wilson Folmar label. Excellent condition. Extremely well-made garment would have been extremely expensive when new. A great piece of fashion history for collector. A great dress to wear to knock 'em dead!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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4639 - c. 1960's Coveted STAVROPOULOS, Athens, New York Cut Silk Ombre Velvet Gown! Stunning!! In my research... seems George Stavropoulos was born in Greece, studied in Paris, developed his well-known custom salon in Athens from 1949-1960, emigrated to New York in 1961 where he opened his celebrated design house. Drawing on his Greek ancestry, his designed ethereal classical chiffon gowns. "He did not use ornamentation or embroidery, preferring his clothing to stand on the simple beauty of their silhouette." His gowns were coveted in the late 1960s and early 1970's and beauties such as this gown in a superb ombre changeable cut velvet silk chiffon are considered fairly rare. Red, orange, purple, pink, violet, brown, gold Balloon cuffed sleeves. Simple wide neckline. No waistline, just cinch or not as you wish. I added the black tie belt as I prefer to have my clothing fitted, but it's really up to you... can certainly be worn free-flowing. Created from 4 layers of 4 colors of silk chiffon... ecru, blush, brown and then black. Excellent condition.. can't find anything wrong except for one missing self-covered button at back.. which isn't a problem if wearing a sash/belt.. Absolutely in vogue to wear with today's style! But also extremely collectable, or a museum piece! Measures: 35/36" bust, bias cut waist/hips, so unmeasureable, 58" long from shoulder to hem.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4458 - c. 1968 CHRISTIAN DIOR BOUTIQUE, Paris Beaded Evening Ensemble! Numbered Label "63504"! Wonderful beaded evening ensemble by Christian Dior, Paris. This is NOT the Christian Dior, New York label... but the better Parisian numbered label! Off-white crinkly textured silk gown trimmed and decorated with chartreuse green bugle beads and silver metallic thread in polkadot design all over. Comes with matching short bolero jacket with short sleeves. Perhaps the most interesting tiny detail is not in the original ensemble, but in the fact that there remains a tiny red Legion d' Honneur ribbon on the jacket over the heart! There are all sorts of rules and regulations regarding the wearing of these ribbons, so obviously "she" wore this gown to an important evening event, and forgot to remove the ribbon. I'd love to know the history of the original owner! Measures: 34" bust, empire waist, up to 38"/39" hips, but only 49" long from shoulder to hem (so best for 5' tall woman... unless you are happy with the dress being more ankle or calf length). There is nearly 2" more beaded material in hem if necessary. Bolero jacket is 14" long from shoulder to hem, and the upper sleeves are small, so no thick upper arms. Great offset side metal zipper inset, couture detailing! Excellent condition.. except... underarms have light stains on lining of dress barely seen. Only real issue is someone spilled what I assume is coffee on the jacket... so there are a few very light spots seen on inspection. I'm sure a couture/vintage cleaner/conservationist could spot clean.. otherwise it's near mint condition. SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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EXTRA HERRERA Y OLLERO INFO... Herrera y Ollero was one of the premier Spanish Couture designers who unveiled his famous coats, suits and evening gowns in Bonwit Teller in 1965, so this looks to be from his first US collection!

#4015 - c. 1960's BIANCHINI FABRIC Cut Velvet/Silk Floral Gown with Fully Sequined Bodice! OK, here's your lesson for today! Bianchini Ferier silk weaving House was founded in Lyon, France in 1888. In their first year, they won a silver medal at the Paris Exposition in 1889, and thus embarked on a century of textile design and production for the greatest fashion houses in the world! In the early 1900's they furnished fabrics and luxury silks for the great fashion houses, Worth, Vionnet, Callot Soeurs, Jeanne Lanvin, Paquin and Patou. And in the 1940's Hollywood designers such as Adrian. Throughout the 1960's they produced imaginative designs for Givenchy, Balenciaga, Cardin, Chanel, Dior, Feraud, Nina Ricci, and Yves Saint-Laurent. Now this gown I am selling has no designer label, but does have the Bianchini fabric label, so you can take the leap with me... that this is an amazing designer gown... we just don't know whose! But the skirt fabric IS amazing! A floral cut velvet on silk! Awesome and totally unique fabric! The bodice is all sequined.. in three different shades of pink. The middle area gives the impression of a sheer bodice, but it's not! It's fully sequined in clear iridescent sequins which seem to disappear! Also wild! Fully lined in silk with back metal zipper. Wear with large 60s mod pink earrings and dazzle. And then if you DO figure out the designer, PLEASE let me know! I'm sure this gown is worth more than this. Measures: 38" bust, up to 32" waist, up to 40" hips, 54" long from shoulder to hem, 17" slit up skirt side.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#4216 - c. 1920's Adaptation JEANNE LANVIN, 22 Faub St. Honore, Paris Afternoon Dress! Be still my heart! Is is just me or do all women love graphic dresses of black and white?? It's total class as far as I'm concerned. Makes one look rich without having to actually be rich (which is important for a girl from the "other side of the tracks" like me!) And, oh, what a design! The licensed "adaptation" labels were exact copies of the original designs created in the same year, often from the exact same fabrics, and with the same attention to detail and tailoring. So it's as close as you can get to the originals... and since you likely won't find the original Jeanne Lanvin of this dress in your lifetime.. and perhaps your grandchildren's lifetimes... I'd suggest you do not hesitate. I don't sell that many day dresses, as I prefer fancy, but I have a few 20's day dresses at the moment for you gals who don't gala every night! Near mint condition... no apologies for anything! Even the interior is attractive (see photo with label). I had to lighten some photos so you can see detail of tailoring, but the white graphics "pop" on the black silk dress. Even nicer in person!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#9723 - c. 1960's EDITH HEAD / JUNE VAN DYKE COLLECTION Heavyweight Bonded Double Knit Jumpsuit, Bolero Jacket and Extra Material! From Edith Head (Head Designer at Paramount Movie Studio from 1938 through 1967) and June Van Dyke (who was mentored by, and produced Edith Head's fashion shows)... comes this bonded heavy double-knit bold leaf print bellbottom jumpsuit with empire waistline, and matching bolero doublebreasted jacket with large pointed collar. Comes with a large extra piece of material which can be worn as a shawl, or re-designed as a sarong skirt. I'm not usually keen on wild, bold prints, but this REALLY is incredibly eye-catching, and the more I look at it, the more I like it! This outfit was selected by Edith Head and remained in her personal collection. So hey... if you want to dress like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Dorothy Lamour and Elizabeth Taylor (as well as hundreds of other stars) ... then here's your chance to be dressed by Edith Head!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#6309 - c. mid-to-late 1970's BILL BLASS Black Babydoll Dress with Dotted Net Yoke and Sleeves!  Direct to you from a Washington DC socialite (no, not Nancy Reagan, but could have as Bill Blass was one of her favorites!) comes this great babydoll style dress that is anything but "sweet" when on!  The extremely low dotted net yoke will just skim the top of your breasts and shows just what you want to show! The arms are the same sheer dotted net to have the look of being bare without being bear (for those of you with less than perfect arms like me, or those who get cold, like me!).   The bust is wrapped like a pretty black satin package with large bow which echos the satin stripe at hemline.  The skirt is sheer chiffon with gilded chenille dots to shimmer in the light.  As you see it in the photo at left, I did a little creative designing (I don't know if Mr. Blass would approve), but I added a layer of black tulle under the sheer skirt to stick out a bit more than it does.  If you like it that way, just get a dressmaker to add tulle from the bodice down.  Otherwise, if you want to wear as Mr. Blass intended, the straighter shape is shown in the other photos you will see.  Excellent, Near Mint condition!  Labeled size 10, but measures: 36" bust, up to 42" hips, 38" long from shoulder to hem.   

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4661 - c. 1950's Ivory Satin Brocade Butterfly Cheogsam Dress! I keep thinking what a great non-traditional informal wedding dress his would make! So sexy, yet covered up. Just a little something to say, "Aren't you glad you decided to marry me!?" I have a confession... I stuffed my mannequin's bra! The dress was just screaming for that extreme hourglass shape... so you can do the same. Head on down to Victoria's Secret and get yourself a miracle bra and va-va-voom! This particular Cheogsam (Chinese) dress has some fabulous seaming! Check out the close-up photos of the hip area and upper bodice. The only frogs (usually found at the bodice) are on the skirt side slits. Measures: 34-36" bust, 26" waist, 36/37" hips, 40" long from shoulder to hem. Metal zipper at side and upper back. Excellent condition, near mint.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#6529 - c. 1950's Neiman Marcus Luscious Black and Red Velvet Poppies Strapless Gown! Sadly, whoever the designer was on this gown, that label is missing, but the Neiman Marcus store label still exists.  This is one of those rare and opulent velvet materials that I know there is a name for, but my lack of formal training has left me at the mercy of my more knowledgeable customers to supply me with the correct terminology.  Meanwhile.... I just have to try to describe for you.  It's a black silk satin leaf printed gown with gorgeous very low pile velvet red poppies which seem to be part of the satin material.  This gives the poppies a lustrous look.  Fascinatingly tailored as there is only one seam in the skirt and top at the side zipper seam.  Fitted to waist and box pleats at sides front and back of upper skirt.  Boned bodice. Mint condition. Side metal zipper. Gorgeous satin lined silk bodice, rayon lined skirt portion. Measures: 33/34" bust, 25" waist, 41" long from natural waist to hem (with additional 3" in hem).   NEW LISTING!  

$ 785. SOLD on LAYAWAY

Approx. - SIZE 4
(check measurements above)

#6432- c. 1950's HENRI HALPHEN, 52 rue de Passy, Paris Black Print with Roses Cotton Pique Dress!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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$ 685. SOLD

#3920 - c. 1965 Incredible, Hard-to-Find EMILIO PUCCI Brown Twill Print Pants Suit! Yes, you can still find many pucci dresses, skirts, etc., but rare to find a pants suit!! So if you are a modern woman who can't stand the thought of pantyhose, but still wants to dress in original Pucci, well, babe... look no further! 100% wool, fairly light-weight twill, of brown, steel gray, off-white, tan and black in a swirl, flower, ribbon, fleur-de-lis, leaf and geometric design! Great print! Fully lined in tan silk. Excellent condition with just two exceptions. Two tiny, light spots on upper pants front (see photo close-up) - hardly an issue. Only real issue is that one a-hole moth who got to one sleeve! Damn him! Anyway, look at the close-up photo, call your local re-weaver tailor to set up an appointment to make this nearly perfect. There is plenty of matching brown material inside to use to back the hole so it will disappear, and you will finally have the suit all your friends and strangers will envy! Measures: 34" bust (smallish back), 25" waist, 36" hips, 31" inseam leg. Marked size 8, but that's old sizing!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4875 - c. 1950's BEILINSON ORIGINAL Silk Red Roses Print Dinner Dress with Black Illusion Top!  The perfect dinner dress!  Vintage at its best... back when dresses were unique!  A Beilinson Original label. Sheer black silk chiffon bodice with cap sleeves and keyhole back. The oh-so soft silk floral skirt is a print of red, green and black.   There is a crinoline under skirt.... and certainly can be worn with additional crinoline for even more pouf. The wide gathered belt is part of the dress. The sweet peter pan collar uses the same floral silk print which balances the dress. Sweet and sexy. Near mint condition.  I have to say that when I strained the zipper, it opened. But under normal stress, it was fine.  So.... only buy this if it fits! Measures: 32/33" bust, 26" waist,  27" long from waist to hem. Metal zipper at back.   

$ 565. RESERVED

Approx. - SIZE 2/4
(all measurements are maximum, slightly smaller is OK!)

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

#9925 - c. late 1940s/early 1950's CEIL CHAPMAN Black Beaded and Sequin Cocktail Dress with Tulle Bodice! Larger Size!  If you are an antiquedress.com website groupie (and I do have a few!),  then you may recognize this dress as I had one years ago which is still listed in the Museum section of this website at:  http://www.antiquedress.com/item1708.htm.  Now if you notice, this dress has a slightly different bustline shaping and has sequin straps.  I am sure that someone added those details to this dress, and they are easily removable. The dress was hemmed up as well, and luckily they didn't cut anything, so I just let the hem back down to the original length.  I'm leaving the straps and the little sequin "gather" at mid-bust - however if you want me to remove for you prior to shipping, just let me know.  Buyer decides! :)  Side metal zipper. Mid-calf length. Boned bodice with that ever-so-sexy tulle bustline. Kick pleat at back skirt. Excellent condition, with just a strange cutting of skirt lining interior.  Doesn't make any difference.  Measures: 40/41"  bust, 32" waist, up to 41" hips, 48"  long, 32" long skirt.  

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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$ 745. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(check measurements above)

#4367 - c. 1959 PIERRE BALMAIN, Paris Red Flocked Velvet Beaded Party Dress! The ultimate Balmain.. fully beaded, racy red, in a great "looks good on every body" shape! Bright red silk flocked velvet dress dripping all over with red crystal beads. The skirt is stiffened to stand out in the shape you see. The design of the bodice makes it look like a two piece top and skirt (as there is a slight overlay of material at dropped waist), but it's a dress. Low square neckline gives that "strapless" sex appeal but allows for the wearing of a bra (if you are like me and love strapless styles, but don't have the "perky" breasts to go braless.. you will appreciate the wide dress straps!). Small size... this dress was likely tailored to fit, and was probably shortened at the same time. Measures: 32/33" bust, 25" waist, 25" long skirt from natural waist to hem. 41" long from shoulder to hem. Two zipper back... a true sign of a well-made garment. The only issue is that the exterior zipper should be resewn in place, as it's currently only hand-basted.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#6543 - c. 1980's NOLAN MILLER Floral Taffeta Party Dress with Crumb Catcher Bust! Not from Dynasty, but from what I can gather from researching, Nolan Miller created only TWO similar dresses - one worn by Sophia Loren and the other kept by Mr. Miller.  So this fabulous dress of oh-so-close similar large roses taffeta print fabric may have been designed just after, or just prior to that Sophia dress. Oh, by the way, that dress sold for $2,200.  This dress also looks to be custom made.   Measures: 33" bust, 25" waist, 21" long from natural waist to hem. Near Mint condition. Fabulous!!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4812 - c. 1968 PIERRE BALMAIN, Paris Aqua Silk Chiffon Gown over White Foundation with the Famous Parisian HOUSE of LESAGE Heavily Beaded Bodice!  A brief history... the House of Lesage traces its roots back to the House of Worth in the 1800's. Over the years, others followed and the House of Lesage has since provided beading and embroidery for most of the important couture houses in Paris and many American designers!  But specifically, Lesage was the embroiderer for Balmain, because as the story goes, Balmain feuded with all the other embroidery houses so, by 1968 Lesage was the only one who would work with him! So I was told by a reputable source!   Exquisite gown! Please just look at the close-up photos to see the intricate beading on the bodice!  Rhinestones, beads, ribbons, sequins, and goldtone beads in the shape of awareness ribbons! Excellent condition with just minor issues to report.  One teeny freckle spot on chiffon bodice that should clean (I haven't tried) along with a few other small spots hidden in chiffon skirt seen only on inspection, two small heel tears with dirt at one area of hemline of skirt (always the case with chiffon!) hidden in the folds, and minor wear of those goldtone beads.  Still remarkable and certainly wearable as is (only the bodice freckle might want attention).  Measures:  36/37" bust, 28.5" waist, 59" long from shoulder to hem.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#6073 - c. Autumn-Winter 1974 Numbered Couture CHRISTIAN DIOR, Paris Pumpkin Colored Silk Chiffon Gown!  Come on... did you ever think you could afford a Dior Couture gown???? Well, now you can.  From Autumn/Winter 1974, this gown looks as modern as you will find!  Unique color - something I called pumpkin, but it's more like a subtle pumpkin-taupe. Triple tiered ruffled skirt and ruffled bodice are the only design elements.  Clean lines also evoke Chanel or Armani.   Beautifully made as you would expect with a double zipper at the side and hidden snaps over.  Measures:  33" bust, up to 28" waist, up to 37" hips, 56" long from shoulder to hem. Excellent condition (OK.. with a few issues) with just a few minor chiffon pulls, and see photos to see a bit of chiffon tear on the thin strap (near one shoulder) and slight tearing at very edge of the top of zipper under arm.  I assume "she" wore a flower on the top of that one strap .... so you can as well.  

$ 965. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4
(all measurements are maximum, slightly smaller is OK!)

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4315 - c. 1980's BOB MACKIE Fully Beaded Fringe and Crystal Dress! $7,000 Original Price Still Attached ! So WHY don't I sell this dress for $7,000?? Seems crazy to me that we should be able to buy 20-year-old dresses for LESS than the original price in NEW, UNWORN condition!! Part of the problem is that it's only these very early net Mackie dresses (and costumes) that were priced at this level. There were many Mackie mass-produced dresses that were produced later, and often people don't know the difference. Always seek out the fully beaded dresses and gowns on nude netting - these were lined in nude material to be worn out in public, but if the linings were removed, they were the same nearly see-through dresses that were worn by Cher, Diana Ross and others! This dress screams Ann Margaret during her Vegas days. So these, along with Mackie's beaded costumes, are the collectable Mackies! (There was a strange silk modesty strap that you step into to hold the dress down, but I detached one side as no human could fit into the dress the way it was. You can easily remove the other side from the lining, but I left it as it is original to the dress.) Measures: 36" bust, up to 28" waist, up to 36" hips (37" tight), 32" long from shoulder to hem of underskirt with additional 4" beaded fringe.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

#6539 - c. 1950's Made in France for Saks Fifth Avenue Heavy Linen Floral Dress!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

$ 345. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 8 (large cup size best)

$ 765. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 0/2
(check measurements above)

$ 635.  SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 10
(check measurements above)

$ 435. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2
(check measurements above)

$ 285. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 4/6
(all measurements are maximum, slightly smaller is OK!)

$ 365. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6-10
(check measurements above)

#6022 - c. 1950's Black Silk Crumb Catcher "New Look" Dress! With Original Separate Crinoline Half Slip!  You probably know what "crumb catcher" means, but for those of you who don't... it's the cute name for a bodice like this that has two layers, one which sticks out a bit at the bust - you know... to catch the crumbs! :) Amazingly I had this same dress back in 2001 and was just lucky enough to find another (that happens every once in a blue moon in the vintage world... to find more than one of something!  It's so much fun... like finding an old friend!  It's funny, I have a hard time recognizing and remembering people, but I can always remember a dress! Oh so great dress with a band of black velvet drawing attention to the bustline and continuing up to become straps!  The back has a black velvet bow.  Extremely elegant and classy. Back metal zipper. Comes with original crinoline and taffeta black half slip. This dress will give you that "New Look" tea-length or ballet-length look.  Measures:  33/34" bust, 26" waist, 29.5" long from waist to hem. Excellent condition.  Only tiny issue is that the elastic waistband on the half slip is slightly stretched out... but the slip also has a metal zipper, so it's still fine, but will likely need a nip/tuck.  Again, this is just the bonus slip!  The dress is near mint! 

$ 765.  SOLD

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

#6434 - c. 1964 Multicolored Gathered Silk Crepe Chiffon Short Dress!  I nearly fell over when I saw this dress.  SOOO different!  For all of you who would die for a Jean Desses chiffon draped gown (ok, perhaps that's not a good idea, as if you are dead, you won't be able to appreciate the gown!)... so for those of you still living... this is for you!  WOW!  I just found a photo of the longer version of this dress in December, 1964 VOGUE magazine.  Listed as Nat Kaplan for $185!  That was quite expensive then.  On par with Oleg Cassini.  Multicolored vertical striped silk crepe chiffon totally gathered over bodice and at waist.  The skirt is made up of two layers of the same chiffon... and the dress is lined in, yup, you guess it... the same multicolored stripe silk!  The waistband is sewn in (not a separate belt. You could wear with a bow-tied sash, or a belt if you wish.  The length (which was perfectly shortened from the original length) is either a short dress, or could be considered a long tunic length. So wear with colored tights and high heels, or heck, just enjoy the shortness, perhaps for summer with ballet flats.... whatever works best for you.  Back metal zipper.  Totally unique and wonderful!  Excellent condition.  Measures: 33-35" bust, 25" waist, 21" long from waist to hem.
SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

$ 485. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 2 (small cup size)
(all measurements are maximum, slightly smaller is OK!)

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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Approx. - SIZE 2, small busted 4
(check measurements above)

September 1983 VOGUE Ad for this Gown

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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$ 1,450. SOLD

Approx. - SIZE 6
(check measurements above)

#2126 - c. 1940's Cotton Farm Print Sundress! Hee-Haw! Looking for your most favorite Rockabilly dress? Or favorite sundress? I saw this dress smashed in a rack of "godawful" housedresses. I could barely get it out since the garments were packed in so tight, but I persisted and came out with a gem! Go back in time to the simple life with this cottom farm print with big red house, barn, silos, horses, cows, pastures, fences, carts and ten-galloned hat cowboy/farmer. In bright red, green, black, tan and white. Buttons down the back. Straps fasten in the front with white plastic circles..... unfortunately one is broken in half, so that side will have to be replaced (eventually) or pinned to wear. I've shown the dress with crinolines uner for a bit of a flair. You can wear it however you like. Get yourself a red cardigan sweater and espadrilles and you will be perfect! And what a conversation starter! Wear it on your first date to get him to start talking about "the good old days" and his childhood. He'll love you! :) Measures: 35" bust, 28" waist, 28.5" long from waist to hem.

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

SOLD on LAYAWAY

#6308 - c. 1980's BILL BLASS Black and White Silk Organza Sequined Top Ballgown!  OK... so you don't want to spend too much, but still want to look absolutely smashing in your vintage gown at the next "black and white" ball? You know there will be people in black and there are people in white, and there will be those few people who add a little touch of the other color... but YOU will waltz into that room and dazzle in "THE" perfect ballgown!  Skirt of black and white silk organza with black lace in horizontal stripes. Wide black silk satin bow waistband.  The bodice is an overlay of black sequin and white "roses" ribbon  in an abstract pattern on a spiderweb-like netting - attached but designed as a bolero with scalloped bottom edge, and open at back. The sleeves are lined only in chiffon, so slightly sheer. Some padding in shoulders - not overblown. Labeled as size 10, but measures:   35-37" bust,  28/29" waist, 61" long from shoulder to hem.  BUT I'm a size 6 (33" bust, 26" waist) and it looks fine on me as well, so will fit a variety of sizes. Excellent condition with just a minor surface dirt at hemline.  Back zipper. Bill Blass at his best!

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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#4415 - c. 1950's Soft Cotton Red Tulip Print Dress! I certainly wish you could feel this fabric... soooo soft... like a 1000 thread count sheet! And look at the perfect floral pattern! Just makes your mouth water! All eyes will follow you, and jealousies will abound. Just toss your hair and accept all the compliments! Measures: 35/36" bust, 26/27" waist, 27" long from waist to hem. Back metal zipper.A net crinoline is attached, but I've shown with an extra crinoline as well. Excellent condition. Looks like the neckline has been taken in at the front to fit the bust better. I think it's best that way, and could be original. Can't tell for sure. Not a problem at all!! Now for all you horticulturists out there.. I'm not really sure if these are tulips. So if you have the name of the correct flower, you can email me and I will change this description! :)

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Study

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#6263 - c. 1964 LILLI ANN, Paris, San Francisco Black Silk Shantung Dress with Fur Hem and Awesome Mottled Cotton Velveteen Coat Trimmed in Fur!  I just love it when I find really great stuff!  I bet you do too! I can't believe I found these pieces still together... only missing the original belt (I just used a black satin ribbon which doesn't come with it), but otherwise in Near Mint Condition.  Black silk shantung sheathe dress with mink-like fur (I don't believe it's mink, but a real fur of slightly longer hair).  The coat trimmed in the same fur is awesome!!!!  I've lightened the photos a bit so you can see the black-on-black detail of the fabric.  Wear the coat over the dress or alone with anything and everything for that "I'm richer than you" look! The coat closes with snaps at front, dress has nylon zipper at back.  Dress measures: 36" bust, up to 32" waist, up to 39" hips, 37" long from shoulder to hem.  Coat measures 36" long from shoulder to hem, 16" across back between armseams, 7/8 length sleeves or full sleeves for shorter arms. Both fully lined.    

SOLD - but on display in Museum Category for Research/Display

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