A beauty to behold. This original 1940's Eau De Nil blue crepe silk dress, embellished with gold lamé braiding soutache embroidery, contouring gold glass bugle beads and round gold beads and pearlescent beads in a trailing floral pattern, finished with silver claw set rhinestones, is just the perfect piece for that special occasion.
The notched square neckline is framed by a pointed collar, which is embellished with trailing embroidery and beadwork, drawing the eye to the central bib panel along the front of the décolletage, embellished with matching embroidery. The simple shoulder line, is accented by internally sewn shoulder pads along each shoulder seam. The elegant mid-length inset sleeves, are accented by smocking stitches along each internal side of the cuff, creating subtle pleats and allowing for ease of movement around the elbow area. The elegant fitted bodice, is accented by tailored darts beneath either side of the bust-line, which draw the eye to the fitted waistline, finished with a matching crepe silk belt. The skirt line, is set off by pockets along either side of the hipline, which gather pleats along either side of the front of the waistline, creating effortless drape along the length of the skirt. Finished with a central front vent along the hemline, every detail of this piece, showcases the craftsmanship of the era.
Label: None
Measurements of the Dress
Armpit to Armpit: 36 inches
Shoulder to Hem: 56.5 inches
Waist: up to 27.5
Shoulder to End of Sleeve External Side: 19 inches
Hips: up to 40 inches
Shoulder To Shoulder: 15 inches
Shoulder to Waist: 17 inches
Size: UK 8-10 US 4-6
Closures: This dress fastens along the side seam with a 11.5 inch metal zip.
Condition: This dress is in well loved vintage condition. There are considerable areas of colour variation and bleaching to the crepe silk, through prolonged exposure to uv light during its time in storage. This is visible throughout the dress and is particularly visible along the base of the skirt-line and along the shoulder lines. There is a visible area of colour bleaching along the bodice where is appears the dress was once folded. The belt has considerable wear to the underside, where the backing leather is split and damaged in areas. There is a linear age mark along the front left hand side of the skirt-line near the hemline. Although these areas of sun bleaching are apparent, I feel that they somehow add to the dress and create an almost ombré like effect. This dress is still in very wearable condition and should be purchased by someone who appreciates its beauty and understands that crepe silk naturally fades with time. This piece has been priced accordingly. Please refer to the photographs as they form part of the condition report.
Washing instructions: This garment should be dry cleaned
Fabric:lamé braiding soutache, claw set rhinestones, plastic gold beads, plastic pearlescent beads, glass bugle beads, crepe silk
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 your favourite similar style garment and compare it to the measurements we have listed.
