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Vintage 20s Dresses

20s Sequin and Beaded Tule Dress
20s Sequin and Beaded Tule Dress

20s Sequin and Beaded Tule Dress

Located in London, GB

- 1920s Beaded flapper dress - Black tule embellished with incredible sequin and bead work

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1920s Evening Dresses

Vintage Bob Mackie 20s Inspired Beaded Gatsby Flapper Black Dress size 4
Vintage Bob Mackie 20s Inspired Beaded Gatsby Flapper Black Dress size 4

Vintage Bob Mackie 20s Inspired Beaded Gatsby Flapper Black Dress size 4

By Bob Mackie

Located in Montgomery, TX

Vintage Bob Mackie Fully Beaded Mini Black Dress Designer Size 4 Measurements: Length - 33 inches

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Late 20th Century American Cocktail Dresses

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Vintage Gianni Versace for Genny silk & silver beads 20s style dress, c.1980s
Vintage Gianni Versace for Genny silk & silver beads 20s style dress, c.1980s

Vintage Gianni Versace for Genny silk & silver beads 20s style dress, c.1980s

By Gianni Versace for Genny

Located in London, GB

Genny until the ‘90s. This black chiffon sleeveless dress designed by Gianni Versace(see photo) was

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1980s Italian Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage 1920s 20s Sheer Black Silk Chiffon + Lace Drop Waist Flapper Dress
Vintage 1920s 20s Sheer Black Silk Chiffon + Lace Drop Waist Flapper Dress

Vintage 1920s 20s Sheer Black Silk Chiffon + Lace Drop Waist Flapper Dress

Located in Sparks, NV

Completely sheer black silk chiffon and lace flapper dress from the late 1920s. Flutter sleeves and

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Early 20th Century American Art Deco Evening Dresses

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1960s Charmont Model Royal Blue Silk Chiffon Sequin Vintage 60s Maxi Dress Gown
1960s Charmont Model Royal Blue Silk Chiffon Sequin Vintage 60s Maxi Dress Gown

1960s Charmont Model Royal Blue Silk Chiffon Sequin Vintage 60s Maxi Dress Gown

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful 1960s CHARMONT MODEL by BURKEMAN & PASSES royal blue silk chiffon sequined gown! Features a tailored bodice, with a straight skirt and overlay. Hundreds of hand-sewn sequin...

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1960s American Evening Gowns

1960s 60s Psychedelic Flowers + Paisley Colorful Print Mod Retro A - Line Dress
1960s 60s Psychedelic Flowers + Paisley Colorful Print Mod Retro A - Line Dress

1960s 60s Psychedelic Flowers + Paisley Colorful Print Mod Retro A - Line Dress

Located in San Diego, CA

Incredible 60s psychedelic long sleeve vintage dress! Vibrant bright colors, with paisley and flowers throughout. Slim long sleeves, with a flattering A-Line fit. Features two pocket...

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1960s Cocktail Dresses

Jane Andre 1950s Full Skirt Dress
Jane Andre 1950s Full Skirt Dress

Jane Andre 1950s Full Skirt Dress

Located in Water Mill, NY

A great black dress by Jane Andre in a cotton linen blend. It has cap sleeves, a drop waist and full skirt. There is fine band around the crew neckline and the drop waistline ending ...

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1950s American Day Dresses

Large Black Straw Cartwheel Picture Hat with Dotted Chenille Veil – M, 1950s
Large Black Straw Cartwheel Picture Hat with Dotted Chenille Veil – M, 1950s

Large Black Straw Cartwheel Picture Hat with Dotted Chenille Veil – M, 1950s

Located in Tucson, AZ

Appropriate for a multitude of occasions from mourning to tea to church to cocktails, this magnificent cartwheel hat gushes both propriety and drama thanks to its foot-long chenille ...

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1950s American Hats

1970s Sexy Black Jersey Flare Leg Bell Bottom 70s Vintage Disco Halter Jumpsuit
1970s Sexy Black Jersey Flare Leg Bell Bottom 70s Vintage Disco Halter Jumpsuit

1970s Sexy Black Jersey Flare Leg Bell Bottom 70s Vintage Disco Halter Jumpsuit

Located in San Diego, CA

Sexy vintage 70s black jersey halter jumpsuit! Features a tailored bodice that buttons up the front. Hidden zipper at waistband. Nice flare legged / bell bottom. Buttons at back cent...

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1970s American Jumpsuits

Giorgio Armani 1990s Silver Gunmetal Avant Garde Vintage 90s Silk Blouse Top
Giorgio Armani 1990s Silver Gunmetal Avant Garde Vintage 90s Silk Blouse Top

Giorgio Armani 1990s Silver Gunmetal Avant Garde Vintage 90s Silk Blouse Top

By Giorgio Armani

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful vintage GIORGIO ARMANI 90s silver and gunmetal Avant Garde sleeveless shirt! Features luxurious silk, with an excellent draped neckline, and asymmetrical ruffle along the f...

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1990s Italian Blouses and Tops

1940s Vintage B. Altman & Co. Denim Chambray Dress w/ Horse Buttons
1940s Vintage B. Altman & Co. Denim Chambray Dress w/ Horse Buttons

1940s Vintage B. Altman & Co. Denim Chambray Dress w/ Horse Buttons

By B. Altman & Co.

Located in San Diego, CA

Incredible 1940s B. Altman & Co. Cotton Denim/Chambray dress, with horse buttons up bodice, and at sleeve cuffs! Beautiful lightweight fabric, with a flattering neckline, and full sk...

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1940s Cocktail Dresses

Rare Early Yves Saint Laurent Black Rhinestone Top
Rare Early Yves Saint Laurent Black Rhinestone Top

Rare Early Yves Saint Laurent Black Rhinestone Top

By Yves Saint Laurent

Located in San Diego, CA

Sexy vintage YSL knit top, with gorgeous rhinestones on each strap. Flattering fit, with incredible construction. In great condition. Approximately Size Small (lots of stretch) M...

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1970s French Blouses

ALEXANDER McQUEEN 1996 "The Hunger" White Ivory Silk Crepe Asymmetric Dress
ALEXANDER McQUEEN 1996 "The Hunger" White Ivory Silk Crepe Asymmetric Dress

ALEXANDER McQUEEN 1996 "The Hunger" White Ivory Silk Crepe Asymmetric Dress

By Alexander McQueen

Located in Thiensville, WI

ALEXANDER McQUEEN 1996 "The Hunger" White Ivory Silk Crepe Asymmetric Dress Brand / Manufacturer: Alexander McQueen Collection: 1996 Designer: Alexander McQueen Style: Cocktail dr...

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1990s Cocktail Dresses

1990s Gemma Kahng Vintage Black + White Wool Tuxedo Blazer Jacket
1990s Gemma Kahng Vintage Black + White Wool Tuxedo Blazer Jacket

1990s Gemma Kahng Vintage Black + White Wool Tuxedo Blazer Jacket

By GEMMA KAHNG

Located in Sparks, NV

Gorgeous vintage 1990s black and off-white wool blazer jacket by Gemma Kahng with unique flower buttons. Fully lined with front button and hook closure. Front patch pockets. Structur...

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1990s American Blazers

John Galliano Pink Silk Gown
John Galliano Pink Silk Gown

John Galliano Pink Silk Gown

By John Galliano

Located in Water Mill, NY

A spectacular John Galliano silk gown in ombre shades of pink. The bodice has spaghetti straps and gathers onto 2 angled bands crossing at the waist. It has a 2 tier skirt, the sho...

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Early 2000s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

ALEXANDER McQUEEN S/S 1996 Brown Plunging Keyhole Neck Bodycon Midi Dress
ALEXANDER McQUEEN S/S 1996 Brown Plunging Keyhole Neck Bodycon Midi Dress

ALEXANDER McQUEEN S/S 1996 Brown Plunging Keyhole Neck Bodycon Midi Dress

By Alexander McQueen

Located in Thiensville, WI

ALEXANDER McQUEEN S/S 1996 Brown Plunging Keyhole Neck Bodycon Midi Dress Brand / Manufacturer: Alexander McQueen Collection: Spring / Summer 1996 Designer: Alexander McQueen Sty...

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1990s Italian Evening Dresses

Vivienne Westwood Vintage SS 1999 Asymmetrical Silk Wrap Dress Polka Dot
Vivienne Westwood Vintage SS 1999 Asymmetrical Silk Wrap Dress Polka Dot

Vivienne Westwood Vintage SS 1999 Asymmetrical Silk Wrap Dress Polka Dot

By Vivienne Westwood

Located in Morongo Valley, CA

This striking dress by Vivienne Westwood is a commercial variation of a runway piece from the Spring/Summer 1999 collection. Crafted in luxurious silk, it features an asymmetrical dr...

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1990s English Day Dresses

NWT Vintage Bob Mackie Size 8 Black and White Color Block Sleeveless Gown Dress
NWT Vintage Bob Mackie Size 8 Black and White Color Block Sleeveless Gown Dress

NWT Vintage Bob Mackie Size 8 Black and White Color Block Sleeveless Gown Dress

By Bob Mackie

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful and flattering brand new with original store tags vintage BOB MACKIE black and white color block Size 8 evening gown! Features blak crepe at bust, white crepe at waist, and...

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Late 20th Century American Evening Gowns

Extremely Rare 1950s Ceil Chapman Black Velvet Milium Cloak Jacket
Extremely Rare 1950s Ceil Chapman Black Velvet Milium Cloak Jacket

Extremely Rare 1950s Ceil Chapman Black Velvet Milium Cloak Jacket

By Ceil Chapman

Located in San Diego, CA

Incredible 1950s Ceil Chapman black velvet cloak! Lined with impossible to find milium fabric, which keeps the body extremely warm in even the coldest of climates! Intricate silk cor...

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1950s American Cloaks

Alexander McQueen Black Stretch Tank Dress w/Appliqued Print Ca.2003
Alexander McQueen Black Stretch Tank Dress w/Appliqued Print Ca.2003

Alexander McQueen Black Stretch Tank Dress w/Appliqued Print Ca.2003

By Alexander McQueen

Located in Studio City, CA

Circa 2003 Alexander McQueen black stretch cotton tank dress with skirt appliquéd in what looks like a cammo print. In excellent condition - missing fabric tag. Size 40.

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Early 2000s British Evening Dresses and Gowns

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Vintage 20s Dresses For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a broad range of vintage 20s dresses for sale on 1stDibs. If you’re looking for Black vintage 20s dresses and you’re unable to find the right fit, there are plenty of variations in Brown, Beige and more. Finding the perfect accessories for you may mean sifting through those that were made during different time periods — popular versions of these were made as early as the 19th Century and a newer one, made as recently as the 21st Century, can also be found on the site. Finding appealing vintage 20s dresses such as these — no matter the origin — is easy, but Jean Paul Gaultier, Yves Saint Laurent and Moschino each produced popular versions that are worth a look. If you’re browsing our inventory for these accessories, you’ll find that many are available today for women, but there are still pieces to choose from for men and unisex.

How Much are Vintage 20s Dresses?

The prices for vintage 20s dresses start at $75 and top out at $6,050 with these items, on average, selling for $814.

Finding the Right Evening-dresses for You

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.

Questions About Vintage 20s Dresses
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    In the 1920s, the flapper dress became a fresh new look for both day and evening wear. This shift dress hung from shoulder to just below the knee with a significant drop waistline. The evening versions of these dresses often featured lace, fringe, beadwork and luxe fabrics like chiffon, velvet and taffeta. Shop a collection of expertly vetted vintage flapper dresses from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
    To tell if a dress is vintage, look at the labels inside. By researching the maker and looking at images of the brand's other designs, you may be able to estimate the age of your dress. The label may even have a date printed on it. Generally, clothing must be at least 20 years old to qualify as vintage. If you need assistance dating your clothing, a knowledgeable expert, such as an appraiser or vintage clothing reseller, can help. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of vintage dresses.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To tell if a dress is from the 1960s or 1970s, first look for a label. You may be able to determine the approximate date of the dress simply by researching the designer using reputable online sources. Also, check the zippers. Dresses from the 1960s will usually have metal or nylon zippers. Ones from the 1970s are more likely to be plastic. You'll find a large selection of vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
    The most popular 1940s-style dress was the shirtwaist dress. It had a front opening like a men’s shirt, but with large buttons in the front of the dress, which was practical and easy to wear. The sleeves were short and necklines varied from shirt style to sweetheart and other necklines. Antique and vintage dresses from well-known designers are available on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
    The dresses they wore in the 1960s varied depending on the time of day and the occasion. For everyday wear, many women opted for simply tailored frocks called shift dresses. They often featured bold geometric prints in eye-catching colors. In the evening, women tended to opt for gowns with plunging necklines, fitted waists and flowing full skirts. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of vintage dresses from the 1960s.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
    One of the most popular types of dresses during the 1980s was a tight-fitting sheath with oversized shoulder pads. Peplum accents were also common as were large puffy sleeves. On 1stDibs, find a collection of 1980s vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    The iconic dresses from the 1920s are called flapper dresses. This name comes from the term flapper, which was used to describe young women during the period who enjoyed personal fulfillment and independence in American cities, particularly as they gained the right to vote and enjoy other freedoms previously reserved for men. Flappers danced at jazz clubs and upended most societal restrictions placed on women at the time, and fashion statements typically attributed to flappers included short “bob” haircuts, higher hemlines and other then-audacious style choices. Find a selection of flapper dresses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    There are a few options for how you should dress for a ’70s party. You can go for the hippie look with dramatic bell-bottoms, fringed jackets and vests and embroidered blouses, or try a sporty look by pairing a vintage tee with high-waisted, button-fly flared jeans and clogs or platform shoes. For a straight-from-the-disco aesthetic, look for surplice and halter dresses decked out in sequins. Men can make a 1970s-inspired statement with a leisure suit or bell-bottoms matched with a turtleneck. Aviator sunglasses are great accessories for both men and women. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of 1970s apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
    In the 1990s, people dressed in different ways. Styles included grunge, modern preppy, hip-hop and goth. Some trends of the decade were slip dresses, plaid flannel shirts, long plaid skirts, overalls, combat boots and loose-fitting rolled jeans. Neon colors were popular for a time, as were fabric headbands and fabric-covered ponytail holders. Shop a selection of 90s vintage apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Many different styles of dress were popular in the 1990s, including the slip dress which became very common by the middle of the decade. Tastes and styles varied between regions and among people. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage 1990s dresses from some of the world’s top boutiques.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A number of dresses were popular during the 1940s. Many women wore short-waist dresses with button necks, collars, fitted waists and full skirts. The classic A-lines with knee-length hems in red, white and blue colors were also a trend. Shop a collection of vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 27, 2024
    What the dress style was called in the 1960s varied, as there were several types of dresses that were fashionable during the decade. At the start of the 1960s, many women wore swing dresses featuring fitted bodices and full skirts. Collared, button-up belted dresses called shirtwaist dresses were also popular, as were loose-fitting, flowy shift dresses. By the late 1960s, new styles emerged, such as flared, flowing tent dresses, sleeveless jumpers usually styled over sweaters and blouses and drop-waist dresses, which had their waist seams at the hips rather than the natural waist. Find a variety of 1960s dresses and other vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    1950s-style dresses are often called poodle skirt dresses. The dress is generally a fit-and-flare shape with a wide swing skirt. Another popular type of dress is the form-fitting sheath, also known as a pencil dress.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Flapper dresses from the 1920s came in a range of colors, although darker hues such as black and navy were immensely popular. Flapper dresses were cut with straight and slim silhouettes, were typically knee-length and had a lower neckline. They were often made from silk chiffon and featured beaded details. You’ll find a selection of 1920s flapper dresses from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
    To tell how old a vintage dress is, use trusted online resources to conduct research. Start by searching for labels that identify the maker. Then, consult online information and images to determine when the brand produced pieces similar to yours. If you run into any problems or would like assistance, consult a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of vintage dresses.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
    In the 1900s, wedding dresses typically looked like full, floor-length garments. Brides wore S-shaped corsets below the usually ruffled bodices, and most designs included large puff sleeves. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of vintage wedding dresses from some of the world's top boutiques.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    Yes, a 20-year-old Rolex would be considered vintage by most people. Generally, timepieces that are at least 20 years old are thought of as vintage. And as collecting vintage watches gains steam as a hobby, other venerable brands including Patek Philippe, Breitling and Omega have been mining their archives of late, reissuing mid-century models and resurrecting design elements with retro appeal. Find a variety of Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
    To be considered vintage, a wedding dress has to be at least 20 years old. Many brides opt for vintage wedding dresses due to their timeless style and unique details. Shop a range of vintage and designer wedding dresses from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025
    The designer who became famous with her wrap dresses in the 1970s is Diane von Furstenberg. She debuted her first example in 1974. When creating the Wrap dress, von Furstenberg drew inspiration from the skirts worn by ballerinas. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the now-iconic dress, an exhibit called Diane von Furstenberg: Journey of a Dress was held at museums in the United States and abroad. On 1stDibs, explore a range of Diane von Furstenberg apparel and accessories.

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A Short History of Capri Pants, on the 100th Birthday of Their Inventor

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How the Chanel Jacket Forever Changed What Women Wear

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A Pair of Shoes — Heels or Flats — Can Tell an Impactful Story

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The V&A Takes a Fresh Look at the New Look’s Pioneering Progenitor, Christian Dior

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.