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Vintage 1950s Yma Sumac Custom Couture Black Orange Silk Hourglass Gown Ensemble

About the Item

An important and truly breathtaking one-of-a-kind dress ensemble custom made for Yma Sumac, dating back to the mid 1950's. Yma Sumac (1922–2008) was a noted Peruvian soprano and the original Queen of Exotica. Her international fame began in the early 1950's and she became the most famous proponent of exotica music. She is remembered best for her extraordinary vocal range, which was well over four and a half octaves. She was also quite the fashionista, and in 2010 'V' fashion magazine voted her one of the top 5 World Muses! This absolutely sensational, museum worthy black and orange silk hourglass gown with matching full-length trained sleeveless over jacket comes straight from her personal wardrobe which Yma Sumac kept safe for decades. As shown, we are thrilled to say we even found an image of the queen wearing this glamorous look! The fabrication is truly gorgeous; black silk looks like it was poured on with sparkling metallic gold lamé perfectly appliqued onto vibrant orange silk. I love the seductive fully-boned corset strapless bodice that flows into a flawless nipped waist hourglass wiggle skirt construction. The matching full-length sleeveless voluminous over jacket is so fresh and strikingly modern with it's vibrant orange lining. The trained hemline of the over jacket finishes this set off with the perfect Old Hollywood red carpet vibe. As Damon, Yma Sumac's personal assistant, told me, "Yma loved elegance mixed with a touch of exotic. I was fascinated to see how much effort was put into each piece and what was added inside for the perfect physique no matter what her age or weight at the time." A set like this is not only a couture treasure but a true piece of celebrity fashion history. The pictures say it all! Measurements Bust: 35-36 inches (can allow bigger cups) Waist: 25 inches Hips: up to 37 inches Length top of bodice to waist: 10.25 inches Length waist to hem: 43 inches Jacket Front Length: 58 inches Jacket Back Length: 70 inches This Yma Sumac custom couture ensemble is in wonderful wearable condition with no serious damage to note. Presents beautifully. Perfectly working hand-set back metal zipper and intricate inner corset boning. There are two different black silks used for the front f the dress but looks intentional. Only signs of age are some darkening to the lamé and minor surface dirt to the orange lining. Please message for detail pictures. Museum quality and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value.

Dimensions:

Bust: 36 in (91.44 cm)Waist: 25 in (63.5 cm)Hip: 37 in (93.98 cm)

Style:

1950s (Of the Period)

Place of Origin:

United States

Period:

1950-1959

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use.

Seller Location:

Beverly Hills, CA