1950's Ceil Chapman Silk Jersey and Silk Chiffon Evening Dress

"Ceil Chapman" black on white label. A rare turquoise color, I don't think I have ever seen this color in a Chapman dress before. And, also rare pleated silk jersey bodice which is just gorgeous. The styling is a very form fitting bodice with a V neckline with off-the-shoulder sleeves that are also pleated. The skirt is done in three layers: top layer of matching turquoise silk chiffon, next layer is matching silk netting, and final layer is matching rayon crepe. The bodice is lined in turquoise silk, and the dress fastens with back metal zipper. In good condition, structurally sound and wearable. The silk chiffon skirt has several fade streaks, there are 6 vertical light streaks from side of skirt to side of skirt, spaced evenly about every 8 inches. There is a patch of brown spots above the hem at side hem, two large water marks, and a small less than a dime size hole right above hem. If the dress were to be taken up 3-4" the brown spots and the hole would be gone. There is also a very faint light brown mark on one sleeve. It presents nicely despite the flaws. Size small. Measures 34" bust, 24" waist, free hips, 16" shoulder to waist, 29" waist to hem. For a larger view click here. For a side view click here. For a back view click here. For a bodice view click here.

Item #WTURQ

Size: Small 34" 24" free hips

1950's Taffeta and Tulle Evening Dress with Appliqués

Late 40's to early 50's. No labels found, professionally made. A very pretty black dress in silk taffeta with black tulle overlay. Fitted through bodice and waist, with full skirt. The straps are covered in tulle, too. The neckline is trimmed in ruffled tulle, the hem is trimmed in a 5" band of micro-pleated tulle. The interesting thing about the dress, and what makes it special is the matelasse' or embossed matte taffeta leaf design along the neckline and hem. This is hand applied. The design is small on neckline portion, and large at the hem.  This is a fairly light weight dress, not a heavy, structured dress. The bodice is lined but not reinforced with stays. The dress fastens with side metal zipper. In excellent clean condition. Size small-medium. Measures 36" bust, 29" waist, free hips, 16" shoulder to waist, 28" waist to hem. For a larger view click here. For a side view click here. For a back view click here.

Item #WMBC

Size: Small-medium 36" 29" free hips

Price: $128.00/shipping

1950's Frank Starr Silk Print Evening Gown with Appliqués'

"Frank Starr Original" label. Late 40's to early 50's. A rare full length evening gown from this much sought-after 50's designer. A big, bold graphic print in impressionistic floral against a white background. The colors are bronze, applied metallic gold paint, brilliant royal blue, and dusty rose. The gown has a scoop neckline trimmed in hand stitched blue floral appliqués', cap sleeves with fitted waist and  very full floor length skirt. The bodice is illusion style, with an attached off-white rayon taffeta under slip with straps. The fabric is China silk, and is slightly see-through, but is lined. The gown comes with it's original belt, and fastens with side metal zipper. In very good condition, lining has a few tiny spots, the lower side of skirt has a cluster of light brown spots, blends in with print fairly well. The dress has been stored very nicely and has little wear. Size small/tall. Measures 15-15 1/2" shoulder to shoulder edge, 36" bust, 26" waist, free hips, 16" shoulder to waist, 43 1/2" waist to hem. For a larger view click here. For a side view click here. For a back view click here. For a close up of bodice click here.

Item #WFRNK

Size: Small 36" 26" free hips

Price: $120.00/shipping