Made in the most exquisite Duchess satin in the softest shade of blush pink, this truly incredible 1940's evening gown, attributed to Charles James, is a rare piece to behold.
The straight cut neckline is framed by rounded edges which curve upwards to join the elaborately constructed sleeves. The elegant petal cut puffed sleeves, boast slit openings, which are framed along either side by pleated and gathered satin, in a twin peak design. These peaks flare out and create a dramatic satin structure which upholds the softly pleated collar panel, which frames the neckline and joins the backline in a stand away collar, joining centrally in a cross over petal cut. The softly pleated satin collar joins either side of the bodice along either side of the front seams.
The fitted bodice is accented by Princess seams which run along either side of the length of the bodice to the top of the hipline, where the seams turn into inverted pleats, creating drape along the skirt line. The side seams of the bodice, are elegantly curved to set off the Basque cut bodice, which sits in an open design along the front but joins in a deep point along the back. The Basque cut bodice, visually elongates the body and accents the hourglass silhouette, which is accented here by a fitted waistline. The top of the hipline is set off by internally sewn hip pads, which accents the incredible drape of the duchess satin along the length of the skirt line.
The hemline is finished with an internal mesh panel, which gives structure to the base of the skirt-line.
This majestic evening gown is attributed to Charles James through its construction, fabric choice and design but is not labelled. The label within the dress, Mrs Eugene Gray is that of a store in Ohio. She sold upscale, designer garments to the city's elite, operating high-end salons similar to other notable specialty shops of the era. Mrs Eugene Gray was known to often remove the original Fashion House labels and replace them with her own. Through lengthy research and studying the garment, I believe that the label of this piece may have been removed. This piece is attributed to the designer but I cannot guarantee it.
Label: Mrs Eugene Gray
Measurements of the Dress
Armpit to Armpit: up to 34 inches
Shoulder to Hem Front: 58 inches
Hip: 44 inches
Waist: up to 26 inches
Size: US 4 UK 8
Closures: This dress fastens at the side with a 13.5 inch metal lightning zip.
Condition: This gown is in beautiful near perfect vintage condition. There is a small age mark along the back of the bodice. A large faint yellow age mark along the right hand side of the skirt line( this is well concealed within the drape of the skirt line) . Signs of gentle wear and foxing to the edges of the skirt hemline. The mesh panel along the hemline has been fully replaced as the original one had fallen to pieces. Gentle wear to the internal structure of the dress along the shoulders. Light and natural impression marks to the Duchess satin. These minor issues are in no way visible when the dress is being worn, and only noticeable under closer inspection. Please be realistic, a gown of this age will very rarely remain in immaculate condition.Please refer to the photographs as they form part of the condition report.
Washing instructions: This garment should be dry cleaned or hand washed in cool water.
Fabric: Duchess Satin
Vintage garments have been previously worn and lovingly cared for, they may however have a blemish or two. Here at Willow Hilson, we try our very best to note all the details of each garment, although we may sometimes overlook things, which we do apologise for. Please do not expect perfection, unless stated so.
Please make sure you check all the measurements of the garment before purchasing. Vintage garment sizes are not the same as those of today. To ensure the best fit, we suggest you measure you favourite similar style garment and compare it to the measurements we have listed.
