40s Red Silk Chiffon Party Dress

SKU: 00330-001
Sorry, this item has sold.

A 1940s party dress in fire-engine red.

  • Not only does it look fabulous and feel divine, it has unbelievably complex and detailed construction.
  • Two-layer chiffon bodice has bust and vertical darts over an intricately finished, corset-like inner foundation with hook&eyes up the back, a metal zipper on the outer layer.
  • The skirt has three layers: The outer layer is sheer chiffon, with hand-made, stitched-down pleats to the hips, and doubled at the bottom third to create visual interest, fullness, and outstanding movement. Beneath is a layer of very soft silk tulle, with a double ruffle at the bottom for fullness. Underneath that is an inner lining which itself is a double layer of sheer chiffon affixed at the hem to a silky smooth "slip."
  • There are no raw edges. Even the tulle hems are finished! No time or effort was spared in the creation of this beautiful, dreamy dress. It was clearly a labor of love.
  • Zips up the back with a delicate metal Eclair zipper. One large snap secures the waist, and a row of teeny tiny snaps holds the outer chiffon skirt closed.

Labels: none - home sewn by someone with patience and skill

Fiber/Care: no tags, all silk, dry-clean only

Condition: there are a few minor stains on the bodice and larger stains on the skirt which get lost in the folds (see photos), there is wear to the silk at the underarms, and a few weakened spots here and there. No shattering. Strong and wearable. 

There were velvet-covered "steels" (as underwires were known back when) at the bust, but because they'd gone a bit wonky and would certainly have been terribly uncomfortable, we snipped the basting and removed them.

 Garment Measurementsa;
 bust: 34"/86.25cm plus darts 
 ribs: 29"/73.5cm
 bodice: 9"/22.5cm center front
 waist: 28"/71cm
 hips: 42"/106.5 (inner lining, no stretch)
 skirt length: 28.5"/72cm
 hem sweep lining: 60"/152.5cm
 hem sweep of outer layer: full circle+

Sorry, the Whiting & Davis 50s statement necklace shown has sold.

 

 Our items are not newly manufactured "vintage style" pieces. They are true vintage, at least 30 years old. Please read condition report provided above. 

Notes: Significant shipping overages (where applicable) will be refunded. International customers are responsible for any taxes or import fees. 

 

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Sorry, this item has sold.
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