Vintage Galliano Black Ruffle Dress
By John Galliano
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A Vintage Galliano Black Ruffle Dress is a statement piece that would embody the dramatic and avant-garde style that John Galliano is known for.
Vintage Galliano Black Ruffle Dress
By John Galliano
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A Vintage Galliano Black Ruffle Dress is a statement piece that would embody the dramatic and avant-garde style that John Galliano is known for.
F/W 1995 Thierry Mugler Black Velvet Trim Sculpted Cutout Dress
By Thierry Mugler
Located in Concord, NC
Fall Winter 1995 Thierry Mugler dramatic black fitted sheath dress with dramatic sculptural velvet applique detailing at the neckline, bodice, shoulders, and cuffs.
1980s Joan Leslie Black Satin Evening Dress with Large Bow
By Joan Leslie
Located in London, GB
This dramatic evening dress was designed by occasion wear designer Joan Leslie in the late 1980s or early 1990s.
Lanvin Hiver 2005 Black Satin Rosette Plunge Neck Pleated Dress
By Lanvin Paris
Located in Woodland Hills, CA
Rendered in luminous black satin, this sophisticated sleeveless dress features a dramatic plunging neckline trimmed with delicate frayed edging, creating subtle textural contrast aga...
F/W 1991 Giani Versace Runway Open Bust Black Hot Pink Wrap Mini Dress 38IT/4US
By Gianni Versace, Gianni Versace Couture
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This dramatic little black dress features an open bust with fuschia silk satin lining that asymmetrically wraps around the body, perfectly adding a bright pop of color to this mini d...
2008 Yves Saint Laurent Embellished Leopard Silk Chiffon Backless Dress Gown
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Montgomery, TX
Striking and highly collectible Yves Saint Laurent leopard silk chiffon evening dress, produced in France in 2008. The dress features a dramatic halter neckline and fluid floor-leng...
YVES SAINT LAURENT by Stefano Pilati black draped caftan dress
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Dramatic, jet black caftan dress with draped sides at designed by Stefano Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent dating to spring of 2009' Labeled a French size XXS although this dress is ver...
ALEXANDRE VAUTHIER COUTURE Runway metallic silver sequin plunge neck gown dress
By Alexandre Vauthier
Located in Hong Kong, NT
The dress features a dramatic plunging V-neckline often extends to the waist.
Schiaparelli "Man Ray" Cold Shoulder Handkerchief Hem Dress Wearable Art
By Schiaparelli
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Schiaparelli’s Spring pret-a-porter 2019 collection presented a focus on artist Man Ray. Eye catching and dramatic Schiaparelli silk dress with shirtwaist style bodice extending i...
Versace Black Metallic Dress With Hardware 2001
By Versace
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Designed with a plunging V neckline and dramatic low back, the dress is accented with signature Versace hardware at the shoulders, lending a bold, sculptural edge.
GUCCI F/w 2008 Gucci Floral Painted Tube Origami Dress Gown
By Gucci
Located in 上海市, Xuhui district
Gucci Tube origami gown from the Fall/Winter 2008 collection, designed by Frida Giannini. The dress features a dramatic, asymmetrical design with cinched waist and multi layers of fa...
Roberto Cavalli Black Silk Dress With Lace And Gold Bird Floral Print 2006
By Roberto Cavalli
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Finished with a jewel-like accent at the bust and intricate cutout detailing below the chest, the dress balances dramatic embellishment with refined femininity.
1975 Gina Fratini Elizabeth Taylor Ombre Chiffon Wedding Dress Documented
By Gina Fratini
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The Empire-waisted silhouette has a high neckline in the front and a lower one in the back to accentuate its dramatic drape and flowing angel sleeves. Taylor’s actual wedding dress w...
PAULINE TRIGÈRE Vintage Black and White Silk Evening Dress, circa 1990, US SZ 10
By Pauline Trigère
Located in Richardson, TX
This is a particularly dramatic and collectible evening dress by legendary American couturier Pauline Trigère.
Malcolm Starr Rizkallah Sequined Gold Beaded Red Maxi Dress 1970s
By Rizkallah, Malcolm Starr
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Done in a beautifully draped chiffon woven with polka dots made from metallic gold thread, this maxi dress is dramatic and alluring at once. The dress features an abstract print of b...
ROBERTO CAVALLI S/s 2007 Leopard Print Chiffon Embroidery Silk Maxi Dress Gown
By Roberto Cavalli
Located in 上海市, Xuhui district
A striking Roberto Cavalli Spring/Summer 2007 leopard print evening gown, capturing the house’s signature vision of untamed glamour and sensual Italian luxury. Designed in a dramatic...
Vintage Vicky Tiel 1980s Black Gold Ruched Bergdorf Evening Slit Maxi Dress Gown
By Vicky Tiel, Bergdorf Goodman on The Plaza
Located in San Diego, CA
Measurements: Model Bust: 36–38 inches Waist: 28–29 inches Hips: 40–42 inches Length (top back shoulder to hem): 58 inches Best fits a modern US size 6 / 8 A striking example of l...
1988 Ungaro Runway Documented Metallic Black Bustle Dress
By Emanuel Ungaro
Located in London, GB
With a dramatic square neckline, the dress is sleeveless but with an exaggerated double layer of ruffles at the shoulders, ruched fabric wrapped around the bodice and a double layer ...
1950s Red Silk Off-The-Shoulder Dress
Located in London, GB
Photographed and modelled without under skirts but these could be added for a more dramatic effect. The dress presents very well and is in good to very good vintage condition overa...
1970s LOUIS FERAUD Attributed Blue Ruby Lined Pleated Ruffled Chiffon Dress
By Louis Feraud Paris, Louis Feraud
Located in Munich, DE
The standout element is of course the sleeves – each ends above the elbow in two dramatic ruffles giving the dress an ethereal feel.
GUCCI By Tom Ford S/s 2004 Black Strapless Crystal Snake Dress NWT
By Gucci, Tom Ford for Gucci
Located in 上海市, Xuhui district
This is a dramatic and glamorous strapless cocktail dress that exudes bold elegance.
Dolce & Gabbana Crystal Butterfly Embellished Cocktail Dress 2005-2006
By Dolce & Gabbana
Located in London, GB
A theatrical and highly embellished archive piece from Dolce & Gabbana, dating to approximately 2005–2006 and exemplifying the house’s signature blend of Italian craftsmanship an...
Vintage Oscar de la Renta 2007 Runway Silk Taffeta Embroidered Dress Gown US 8
By Oscar De La Renta
Located in Montgomery, TX
Stunning full-length gown designed to skim the floor for a dramatic silhouette. The dress itself presents as almost pristine, with the exception of light wear to the bottom hem from ...
John Richmond 2000s Black & Tulle Vertebrae-Embroidered Sheath Dress
By JOHN RICHMOND
Located in Charenton-le-pont, FR
From John Richmond's early 2000s collections, this sleek black sheath dress delivers a dramatic contrast between its minimalist fluid jersey front and an elaborate sculptural back.
Vintage Mary McFadden Couture 1980s Pink Fortuny Pleated Cocktail 80s Dress
By Mary McFadden
Located in San Diego, CA
The uninterrupted pleating continues across the back, balanced by a horizontally pleated waistband that emphasizes the figure. Despite its dramatic appearance, the dress is remarkab...
Ralph Lauren Collection Italian Black Silk Charmeuse Draped Cocktail Dress
By Ralph Lauren Purple Label
Located in Morristown, NJ
A refined and quietly dramatic evening dress from Ralph Lauren Purple Label, the designer’s highest luxury collection, crafted in Italy from fluid black silk satin cut on the bias.
1980s Nina Ricci Black Wool and Silk Cocktail Dress
By Nina Ricci
Located in London, GB
This dramatic Nina Ricci 1980s cocktail dress is silk lined with a black wool crepe overlay and a silk taffeta peplum.
EXTRAVAGANT Emilio Pucci S/S 2009 Kaleidoscope Sculptural Shift Dress 40
By Emilio Pucci
Located in Switzerland, CH
The construction of this piece is its most compelling feature, elevating it beyond standard ready-to-wear into the realm of wearable art: A Sculptural Silhouette: The dress features...
Versace Women's Black Ruched Tulle Sleeve Dress IT40 UK8
By Donatella Versace, Versace
Located in London, GB
Super sexy and dramatic Versace tulle sleeve dress. Bought for over £1500 and worn once.
1990s Pamela Dennis Gold Metallic Linked Lace Hooded Vintage 90s Dress Caftan
By PAMELA DENNIS COUTURE, Pamela Dennis
Located in San Diego, CA
Depending on styling, it can function as a dramatic evening dress, a resort caftan, a luxury swim cover-up, or a statement layering piece.
Fall / Winter 2012 DOLCE & GABBANA Runway Floral Baroque sheer Angel Dress
By Dolce & Gabbana
Located in Sheffield, GB
MADE IN ITALY. The Dress features bellowing dramatic Sheer sleeves, with a nipped waist line and past the knee length hem.
Gucci by Tom Ford Spring/Summer 2003 Black Cotton Plunging Belted Dress IT44
By Tom Ford for Gucci
Located in Berlin, DE
Cut in a fitted, knee-length silhouette, the dress features a dramatically plunging V-neckline, wide shoulder straps and a broad self-fabric belt that wraps and ties at the waist.
BILL BLASS Black Silk Dress With Faille Sleeves & Sash, C.1980
By Bill Blass
Located in Atlanta, GA
C.1980 Bill Blass black silk dress with dramatic sleeves and a cummerbund style sash.
Lanvin Paris 2013 Shocking Pink & Black Beaded Modern Chemise Dress NWT Size 4-6
By Lanvin Paris, Alber Elbaz
Located in Palm Desert, CA
(tag still on garment) Original retail was over $3900. This dramatic chic dress is NWT. Never worn. French size 36.
1950's Saks Fifth Avenue Black Lace Cocktail Dress with Turquoise Ribbon
By Saks Fifth Avenue
Located in Toronto, Ontario
The dramatic back of the dress glides away in trapeze style and the illusion U neckline, that dips lower in the back, is lined in beige tulle.
1970s Cobalt Blue Jersey Cocktail Dress with Bat Wing Sleeves Size 8/10
Located in Atlanta, GA
Batwing-style sleeves enhance the dress's dramatic flair, finished with delicate gathered cuffs for a refined touch.
ALEXANDER McQUEEN F/W 2009 “The Horn of Plenty” Red Black Chevron Ruched Dress
By Alexander McQueen
Located in Thiensville, WI
Dramatically curved center front skirt seam creating ruched draped detail in front of dress; dramatically curved center back seam; curved seam creating slight flare to back hem.
1970's Purple Bohemian Kaftan
Located in Toronto, Ontario
The short kimono sleeves give this dress a dramatic touch and the back has a cape-like effect.
$680Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Moroccan Metallic Floral Brocade Caftan with Gold Trim, Circa 1980s
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
The pale palette and restrained metallic sheen give the garment a refined character that feels equally appropriate as an evening gown, hostess dress or dramatic collector’s piece. M...
Vintage Victor Costa Black Velvet Evening Gown, 1990s, Size 12
By Victor Costa
Located in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Crafted in rich black velvet, this dramatic formal dress is designed with striking embellished long sleeves and a plunging open back that gives the silhouette an elegant, seductive e...
Simone Rocha S/S 2024 Silk White Bow Gown
By Simone Rocha
Located in London, GB
Simone Rocha Spring Summer 2024 Silk white cream long bow gown. The dress features a dramatic bow-like draping at the shoulders and additional bow accents at the sleeve cuffs and wai...
Roberto Cavalli c. 2010 Gemstone Necklace Halter Gown
By Roberto Cavalli
Located in CAPELLE AAN DEN IJSSEL, ZH
A breathtaking floor-length gown from Roberto Cavalli, circa 2010. This showstopping dress features a dramatic super low back with a halter neckline, elegantly tied behind the neck ...
$450Sale Price|43% Off
Full Sleeve Vibrant Pink, Black, Gold Fit and Flare Brocade Gown with Pockets
By Barbara Tfank
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The full skirt gives this dress a dramatic entrance, making it look with side-seam pockets that are both practical and a wonderful addition.
1980s Victoria Royal Rhinestone Dolman Evening Gown
By Victoria Royal
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This black long sleeve maxi dress boasts a dramatic silhouette, enhanced by flowing dolman sleeves that provide an air of elegance and sophistication.
Sensational 1990s Bill Blass Couture Nude Silk Chiffon Paisley Vintage 90s Gown
By Bill Blass
Located in San Diego, CA
Sensational vintage late 90s BILL BLASS couture nude silk chiffon paisley print full length evening dress with dramatic train! This is an original sample, and is incredibly well made!
TOMASZ STARZEWSKI Circa 1993 Egyptian-Inspired Black Silk & Metallic Tunic, SZ 6
By Tomasz Starzewski
Located in Richardson, TX
A rare and highly decorative vintage Tomasz Starzewski silk and metallic tunic dress, strongly evocative of the designer’s Spring/Summer 1993 collection presented at London Fashion W...
Christian Lacroix S/S 1996 Black Lace Panel Halter Gown
By Christian Lacroix
Located in Paris, FR
Black halter gown Christian Lacroix crafted in fluid jersey with decorative black lace panels featuring intricate baroque motifs. The dress showcases a dramatic halterneck design wit...
Moschino Silk Contoured Hoop-Skirt Gown
By Moschino
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Make sure to pair this dress with dramatic earrings from Lawrence VRBA or Yves Saint Laurent to draw your eyes up and balance proportions.
rare Gareth Pugh SS13 Drapey Jersey Tunic Dress Black IT 42 US 8 Viscose blend
By Gareth Pugh
Located in San Diego, CA
Crafted in Italy from a premium, stretchy viscose blend jersey, this lightweight garment transitions seamlessly from a dramatic sleeveless mini dress to an edgy, layered tunic top st...
Maison Martin Margiela S/S 2001 Artisanal Pale Pink Cotton oversized shirt/dres
By Maison Martin Margiela
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Crafted from pale pink cotton, this dramatically oversized shirt dress features a classic chest pocket and a subtle clover motif, highlighting Margiela's understated approach to conc...
Franco Moschino 1980s Vintage Illustrated Silk Scarf for Women, Teal
By Franco Moschino
Located in Aci Castello, IT
Her ensemble, possibly incorporating glitter-effect tights and a chic dress, along with dramatic accessories, perfectly captures the larger-than-life glamour and artistic freedom of ...
Geoffrey Beene Black Silk Taffeta Lace Swing Jacket
By Geoffrey Beene
Located in New York, NY
Great as an elegant coverup or belted as a dress. Dramatically cut as a full circle of taffeta with dolman sleeves trimmed in lace.
Christian Lacroix Black & White Rope Belt
By Christian Lacroix
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Finished with elegant gold-tone hardware and adjustable knots, it cinches the waist with dramatic flair—perfect for elevating dresses, coats, or high-waisted pieces with a touch of v...
Chanel Black & Navy Metallic Wool Blend Cape 2019
By Chanel
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Alternatively, pair it with Gucci’s embellished accessories and classic pumps for an opulent vibe, or layer it over Alexander McQueen’s structured dresses for dramatic impact. The ve...
With entire museum exhibitions dedicated to examining fashion designers and their creations, we’re finally recognizing that costuming is art. Evening dresses over time have conveyed specific statements about social class, position and beliefs. Fashion is a powerful means of self-expression, and sophisticated vintage evening dresses and gowns by our favorite couturier play no small role in making us feel wonderful but, perhaps more importantly, making us feel like ourselves.
In the 16th century, dresses and gowns were so important that England's Queen Elizabeth I defined rules about what dresses women could wear — guidance included long skirts and fitted bodices. Forward-thinking designers have responded to this history.
Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel reimagined traditionally masculine garments for feminine shapes, and her elegant evening dresses and gowns promoted comfort and grace in women’s wear that had been dominated in the previous century by layers of fabric. Christian Dior's gowns celebrated luxury and femininity in the late 1940s — and gave to women the gift of glamour they’d lost in the miserable years of the war. French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent introduced innovative and highly coveted dress designs in the 1960s while at the same time challenging sexist stereotypes about which members of society could wear tuxedos.
Works by unconventional British designer John Galliano — featured in houses like Givenchy and Dior — redefined limits that dressmakers faced in terms of material, construction and vision during the late 20th century. From his embroidered absinthe-green Oscars gown for actress Nicole Kidman to the iconic sleeveless Dior newspaper dress that Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw made famous, Galliano’s intricate and multifaceted work is reliably collectible and newsworthy
Today’s designers target an increasingly broad audience with their boundary-crossing work, and their tendency to play off of each other’s ideas means that every walk down the runway is also a walk through an entire history of fashion design and dress craftsmanship.
Whether you gravitate toward backless maxi dresses or silk charmeuse gowns by Alexander McQueen or embellished, ruffled floral-print designs by Chloe or Versace, there is an extraordinary collection of vintage and designer evening dresses and gowns waiting for you on 1stDibs.
Costumer to the stars Ray Aghayan brought the famed painting to life with his spectacular design.
From handbags and heels to jackets and jewels, Sharon Coplan Hurowitz has a deep admiration for (and collection of) all things Chanel.
Jeriana San Juan explains how she undertook the intimidating project of designing costumes for the new Netflix series about the New York fashion legend. (Hint: She found vintage Halston on 1stDibs!)
Once considered a controversial item of clothing, fashion designer Sonja de Lennart's creation is now a bona fide classic.
The classic tweed garment has been a wardrobe staple of chic women around the world since the 1950s.
Amanda Benchley and Bridget Moynahan teamed up to explore the relationship between powerful women and their most significant footwear.
This year's Costume Institute exhibition is all about embracing the eccentric.
Ballrooms, Bar Suits and British royals — in a sweeping exhibition, the London museum looks back on 70 years of the French fashion house, as well as its illustrious founder and his fondness for the United Kingdom.