Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Did Halston invent Ultrasuede?
1 Answer

No, Halston did not invent Ultrasuede. However, the American fashion designer played a major role in introducing the fabric to the world. Dr. Miyoshi Okamoto invented Ultrasuede in 1970 while employed by Toray Industries, and Japanese fashion designers quickly began using it to produce pieces. Halston discovered the fabric a year later, when one such designer, Issey Miyake, wore an Ultrasuede piece that he designed for himself. In 1972, Halston introduced his first Ultrasuede piece, a water-resistant trench coat. Explore a diverse assortment of Halston apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
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Shop for Halston Fashion on 1stDibs
Rare 1970s Halston Couture Vintage 1976 Gold Lamé One Shoulder 70s Sarong Dress
By Halston, Roy Halston Frowick
Located in San Diego, CA
Best fits a modern US size 2-4 (Small).
Measurements
Bust: 32 inches
Waist: 27 inches
Hips: 36 inches
Length (top shoulder to longest point of hem): approximately 50 inches
A spectacular and exceptionally rare 1976 Halston Couture gold lamé sarong dress, embodying the effortless glamour and Studio 54-era sophistication that made Halston one of the most influential American designers of the twentieth century. Cut from luminous liquid gold lamé, this dramatic one-shoulder design features Halston’s signature Grecian-inspired draping, an elegant shoulder tie detail, and an asymmetrical sarong-style wrap silhouette that moves beautifully with the body.
This museum-worthy design represents everything collectors seek in early Halston couture: minimalist construction, luxurious fabric, sensual draping, and timeless glamour. The fluid silhouette appears deceptively simple while showcasing the masterful engineering and bias-cut techniques that established Halston as the designer of choice for fashion icons, socialites, and Hollywood royalty throughout the 1970s.
A nearly identical version of this iconic design was worn by legendary journalist and television personality Barbara Walters at the MET Gala in 1977, further cementing the style’s place in American fashion history. The design has also appeared in museum exhibitions dedicated to Halston’s groundbreaking work and was famously revisited decades later when supermodel Carmen Kass wore the same striking silhouette on the red carpet, demonstrating the enduring relevance and collectibility of Halston’s most celebrated creations.
The shimmering gold lamé fabric catches light from every angle, creating the liquid-metal effect that became synonymous with Halston’s eveningwear. Equally at home at a black-tie gala, museum event, luxury resort, or red-carpet occasion, this is the type of archival Halston couture piece that rarely surfaces on the market.
Best fits a modern US size 2-4 (Small).
Measurements
Bust: 32 inches
Waist: 27 inches
Hips: 36 inches
Length (top shoulder to longest point of hem): approximately 50 inches
Halston’s work has been collected and exhibited by major institutions including the The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and his influence continues to resonate through designers such as Tom Ford, Donna Karan, Michael Kors, and Narciso Rodriguez.
Style this extraordinary piece with metallic Christian Louboutin heels, a sculptural Bottega Veneta clutch, vintage Cartier jewelry, or statement pieces from Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Gucci for an effortlessly glamorous look.
vintage halston couture dress, 1976 halston, gold lamé dress, gold lame gown, one shoulder evening dress, sarong dress, studio 54 fashion...
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1970s American Evening Dresses
Halston 1970's Purple Fuchsia Linen Halter Dress
By Halston
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Signature simple, yet effective, 1970's silhouette from Halston. Luscious linen in a vibrant shade of grape purple. Elegant and figure-flattering Marilyn Monroe-esque fit and flare ...
Category
1970s Cocktail Dresses
Halston Midnight Blue Ultrasuede Dress, Circa 1970s
By Halston, Roy Halston Frowick
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Iconic vintage Halston ultra suede shirt dress. pointed collar. long sleeves. loose fitting silhouette. two large patch pockets. 5 button closure. ...
Category
1970s American Day Dresses
Halston 1970s Wrap Beaded Gown
By Halston
Located in Water Mill, NY
An amazingly detailed elegant red silk beaded wrap dress from Halston. The floor length gown is covered in red glass tubular beads in an intricate abstract shapes pattern with red ne...
Category
1970s American Evening Dresses and Gowns
Halston Iconic Ultra Feather Faux Suede Cropped Zippered Jacket c 1970s Petite
By Halston
Located in University City, MO
Halston Iconic ultra - feather faux suede bomber style zippered jacket c 1970s Petite Size
The stylish petite size cropped hunter green zippered jacket is constructed with Halston's
...
Category
1970s Unknown Cropped Jackets
$640 Sale Price
20% Off
1970s Halston Silk Rayon Sleeveless Chic Vintage 70s Little Black Dress
By Halston, Roy Halston Frowick
Located in San Diego, CA
The perfect HALSTON 1970s little black dress ! I just love the lines on this beauty. While it looks like a halter dress from the front, it is not a halter dress. Buttons up the front...
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