A really stylish dress, I purchased this (the first time around) from the daughter of the original owner. From memory her mum had married an American GI just after the war, and I purchased a number of very fashionable garments from her, all circa 1940s and very high fashion. 

This I found particularly interesting due to the very early (chunky!) plastic talon side zipper – and of course the asymmetric styling and fringe..

The fringe and original belt are decorated with what think are gelatin sequins - not metal - a few have curled. The belt has a covered metal slide buckle, so adjustable to suit. The belt has a covered metal slide buckle, so is adjustable to suit. There is cotton wadding in the large shoulder pads. The interior is hand hemmed and selvedges neatly finished, and is all of good quality and stylish construction - sadly no labels!

The asymmetric seaming at the neckline echoes the fringing on the skirt; the only real issue (aside from some missing sequins) is an overall fade/breakdown to the red dye. This is only really noticeable behind the belt but I know it was once a deeper scarlet! Best colour likeness is in close ups, as my camera goes a bit mad with red..

Measures: 

Bust 38 to 40” max 

Waist 32” max

Hips 42”

Length from nape to hem approx 48”

Sleeve length underarm to cuff 17.5”

Condition: 

As mentioned above the main issue is the fact that it is not as dark red as it once was. The area behind the belt is a slightly darker red, and there is a slightly more noticeable bit of fade to the sleeve creases. Please see photos.

There is no structural damage aside from some slightly pulled stitches to the neckline seaming. Please see photo.

As also mentioned above there are a number of missing sequins to the sides of the belt, and at the very front. These could be re-distributed more evenly if desired.

The zipper pull end is missing, and has been replaced with a celluloid loop. I’ll see if I have something less contrasting and replace it. 

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Boring Post Script: I sold this on originally some years ago from the shop, and luckily enough was able to re-purchase. Strangely enough I was discussing the history of early zippers with my son one evening (yes, my house is so much fun!) and told him how I’d had a really cool dress with an early plastic Talon zipper.. then the next day I went out buying for the first time since lockdown was lifted, and to my surprise the aforementioned dress was hanging on the rail!  

Please note, I will always combine postage where possible and refund any overages. Please ask if you’re unsure.

Postage to the US has increased recently so apologies for the high price! I send everything tracked, and will send your reference once your order has been posted - along with any refunds owed.