Black Cat Vintage

A cocktail dress that stands apart not only for its nude hue but also for its architectural silhouette, this piece radiates mid-century chic. It reminds us of vintage beauty parlor dome hairdryers and Gaultier cone bras...

An unusual and discretely colorful party dress despite its dark hue, the dress features a silver ombré satin underskirt, which mellows to a pale lavender near the hemline. Even bette...

From the estate of a mid-century opera singer comes this New Look party dress, which looks like it might have stepped out of a Henry Clarke fashion shoot....

You would be forgiven for thinking this is an uptight wedding gown because of its age and sleeves. Of course we would direct your attention to the transparent lace insets that discourage the use of underwear, and to the bias-cut liquid satin...

If you don't have the luxury of changing clothes between the wedding and reception, consider this floor-length gown to fill both roles. Its shorter hemline and swirling skirt are ide...

An alluring, yet fully-covered gown for those brides who seek modesty without looking mousy, this wedding gown was custom-made for a 1951 bride who valued discretion and beauty in equal measure. Though this gown pre-dates Kelly's, it is strikingly similar to the Helen Rose gown Grace Kelly wore to her wedding to Prince Ranier in 1956. Ivory lace wedding dress with high neckline and narrow Peter Pan collar with 33 working covered buttons from navel to throat; illusion sleeves, upper back and upper chest with interior attached ivory camisole beneath. Pointed sleeves with 8 working covered buttons at each forearm; lightly puffed shoulders with petite interior shoulder pads. V-shaped front and rear waist seam with gentle gathers in back; free-hanging lace overlay skirt with cathedral train. Skirt fully lined in free-hanging ivory acetate with additional rear tulle lining for fullness. Matching Juliet cap...

A wedding gown that takes modest fashion to new heights, this columnar maxi dress chastely covers every inch of skin but oozes stature, grace and regality thanks to Byzantine-era jew...

With Taylor’s neck and waistline, Hepburn’s sleeves and Kelly’s lace, this wedding gown has all the requisites of a 1950s heirloom. We love how the uneven, graduated hemline and der...

When wartime rationing abbreviated garment lengths, brides used intricate seams and sharp tailoring to create interest in favor of volume. This shimmering example incorporates a scalloped waist seam and military shoulders to create a simple but striking gown emblematic of its time. Ivory wedding...

A gown so Neoclassical it looks as if it came right off a Greek statue, with floating sash ties that permit endless styling variations. Neither pink nor peach, this gown is a flatter...

Too beautiful to be kept in the bedroom, this negligée is lovely enough to wear in public. The 2 ½ foot marabou feather cords may be tied in front or back for two completely different looks. Vintage sleeveless blush pink nightgown...

A wisp of an undergarment that packs a powerful punch, this corset bridges the gap between naughty and nice. Super sheer and delicately embroidered, it reveals nearly everything when worn alone, but its structure and sturdiness conceal it all when worn under a garment. Ravishingly feminine. Ivory...

One of the prettiest, most feminine peignoirs we’ve seen thanks to its delicate bow-motif embroidery and lace accents, this sleepwear set’s best feature is the satin ribbon woven thr...

In pristine, brand new condition, these gloves are the pinnacle of femininity thanks to their delicate thread-bound eyelets and scalloped edges. In hard-to-find bright white kidskin leather, their elbow length makes them perfect for black tie. White kidskin leather gauntlet-length dress gloves with fourchettes, eyelets at wrist tops and scalloped cuff edge; elasticated on underside of cuff. Unlined. fabric: kidskin leather noteworthy: clean and condition with leather cleaner alterations: none condition: new measurements: length: 15” from cuff to tip of middle finger...

In those faraway days before full hosiery the sirens wore thigh high stockings, which necessitated another sexy little number—the garter—to hold t...

Though this robe’s delicate pastel hue and exquisite softness make it an ideal dressing gown, it would be such a shame to hide it behind closed doors. Cut much like a 1950s swing coat, it could easily double for lightweight outerwear or a chic tunic worn over leggings. Collarless drop shoulder robe embroidered with tonal chrysanthemums; wide bracelet length sleeves and hip-high slits both sides. 5 frog closures with brass buttons from throat to waist; fully lined in matching whisper weight crêpe de Chine. fabric: padded Canton silk...

Hand-made in Tunisia from an Indian silk sari, this kaftan was originally owned by the wife of a State Department ensign in the Nixon administration. Still not impressed? She wore it to tea with Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. That should do it. Tunisian-made hooded kaftan...

Sometimes called iro muji, short kimonos can act as lingerie cover-ups as well as lightweight blouses or jackets. In a versatile putty color, this unusual version features rich textu...

"Wooly Bully" indeed! Words can hardly describe this incredible piece of mid-century fashion: a robe so unique and cozy you'll want to wear it outside the boudoir, thanks to its outrageous Leonard-inspired jungle print lining. And though it probably wasn't meant to be worn inside-out (as the interior has neither pockets nor belt loops) it can easily be reversed so the plush side is in and the jungle print is on display for the world to see. Reversible bath robe...

Longing for a more elegant sleepwear alternative to cotton shorts? Hearken back to the 1940s, when gals wore tap panties: equally as roomy and comfortable as boxers, silk tap panties...

Before the days of separate bras and panties, “step-ins” or “singlettes”—precursors of the modern teddy—were the perfect undergarment beneath the sleek bias cut dresses of the 1930s....

Though technically it's a half slip, this garment's optimistic floral print, matched center seam and front notch beg to be worn as a skirt or bikini cover-up. The fabric is modest en...

A lingerie set so playful and pretty you'll seek out diaphanous clothes. Super soft cotton jersey and no underwire make them equally suited for lounging and sleeping too. Abstract print soft bra and bikini panty set...

Esther Williams could hardly have done better than this shirred swimsuit, which looks like a 1950s one-piece but wears like a bikini. Wearable pulled low over the hips like a skirted...

As appropriate vamping on the beach as it is strolling the sidewalks of the Riviera, this play suit absolutely requires a great pair of stems, espadrilles an...

Suitable for swim, beach or resort, this beautifully textured play suit features a feminine tulip skirt with elasticized bloomers beneath à la Claire McCarde...

Mix a Mai Tai and get ready to do the “limbo,” because your beach party wardrobe is covered. A departure from the classic, WASP-y fashion for which the brand was known, this rare tik...

Ultra-rare, these 1930s men’s swim trunks were made by Porolastic, the German brand favored by Olympic record holders thanks to their sleek design. They enraged competitors for their brevity and immodesty when wet, though their success in the water prompted competitor Speedo to introduce a similar product the following year. Men’s wool swim briefs...

In astounding condition, this shirtwaist dress is a perfect example of what a pioneer woman might have worn on her journey to the American West during the mid-19th century. Its Weste...

A skirt that has withstood over 150 years on the planet with no loss of color, print or integrity despite having lived through winters on the Plains and washing with lye; front and b...

It’s easy to see why tea dresses such as this were sometimes called “pneumonia dresses”: their weightlessness provided little coverage and even less warmth (though the pounds of unde...

An ingenious design made to accommodate both nursing mothers and independent women without ladies’ maids to dress them, this gossamer tea dress features a semi-detachable bodice that...

A transitional piece, this tea dress represents a fashion bridge between the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Full of Victorian delicacies like eyelets, pin tucks and embroidery, it als...

As delicate as a butterfly’s wings, this timeless blouse is as fashionable, ladylike and elegant today as it was a century ago. The square neckline adds unexpected geometry and makes...

As delicate as a spider web (and almost as sheer), this blouse is an alluring exercise in concealing and revealing: though every inch of skin is covered, its gossamer lightness allow...

Another example of the Edwardians’ love of contradiction, this blouse covers every square inch of the torso but does so with transparent filet lace, which r...

Indispensable accessories, neckcloths stretched the Edwardian woman’s wardrobe by changing the look of a dress and covering the décolletage. Though it is over a century old, this whi...

Mexican folk artist Salvador Corona turned to painting after being gored by a bull at age 24. Known for his murals, he was commissioned by both public and private patrons—including J...

The dress that started it all, this Scott Paper Company shift was an advertising gimmick used to promote the company’s disposable tableware collection in 1966. A perfect vehicle for the youthful prints and informal styles that accompanied the cultural revolution, the dress became an immediate success, with over a half million orders for the piece in its first year and countless copycat designs in the years that followed. It now hangs in every major fashion museum in the world. Sleeveless knee length shift dress with wide scoop neckline; trapeze silhouette with graduated hemline slightly longer in back than front. Single right side patch pocket. Pullover styling with no closures of any kind; unlined. fabric: “Dura Weave” wood...

Signed six times, this halter dress is the creation of London designer Colin Glascoe, whose psychedelic prints held their own with Pucci, Liberty of London and Bessi. Unlike his con...

Despite its whisper weight chiffon, this eye-catching shift packs a wallop thanks to a shower of green gemstones and a modern green watercolor print. Perfect for warm spring and summ...

An impeccably-made dress that straddles the 1960s generation gap. On one hand, the contrast piping, attention to detail and matching scarf recall Jackie Kennedy’s immaculate early 60s style, while the large arm holes, daring racer back and patch pockets convey the exuberant youthfulness of the later decade. A perfect balance of chic and playfulness. Sleeveless apron dress with deeply scooped front neckline and racer back; piped in contrasting flat braid around neckline, arm holes, hip patch pockets and hem. Front bodice princess seams, lightly gathered empire waist and full skirt. Left side zipper closure with two hooks and loops above, plus two domed looping buttons and two hidden snaps at left shoulder. Fixed lingerie keepers hidden inside each shoulder; fully lined in blue silk. Matching oblong scarf unlined. fabric: lightweight cotton canvas, silk georgette noteworthy: dry clean only alterations: reattached patch pockets to dress where loose condition: excellent measurements: neckline opening: 4 ½” across neckline plunge: 8” from shoulder shoulders: 9 ½” from outer strap edge to edge bust: 34” max empire waist: 28” natural waist: 26” bodice length: 14 ¾” from shoulder, 5” from underarm hips: free skirt length: 22 ½” length: 37 ¼” from shoulder; 27 ½” from underarm sweep: 55” hem: 2” scarf: 12” wide x 52” long label: Teal Traina (New York) / Belman Fashions at Diamond’s Phoenix...

From its vibrant Shambala-motif print to its unique honeycomb texture, this cheerful dress is like a B-12 shot for your wardrobe. A clever mid-back cross-strap conceals the wearer's bra, making it as practical as it is beautiful. All this AND a scarce larger size? Brilliant! Sleeveless, backless A-line mini dress featuring a clever buttoned cross-strip at mid back that conceals the wearer’s bra strap. Nylon zipper closure with top hook and eye at rear center skirt; self tie belt and belt loops. Bodice lined with white cotton muslin; hanging loops at shoulders. Signed twice. fabric: heavyweight honeycomb textured cotton noteworthy: hand wash in cool water; hang dry alterations: re-dyed print where faded condition: excellent measurements: neckline opening: 10” across bust: 41” waist: 30” bodice length: 16” from shoulder hips: 42” skirt length: 21” total length: 37” from shoulder sweep: 49” hem: 2” sash: 56” long x 2” wide label: Miss Shaheen...

An ensemble so well-bred it practically demands lunch at the Plaza. Pair with a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and a Yorkshire terrier (or Dalmatian puppy!) and prepare to stop traffic...

Although it bears no label, this suit betrays all the hallmarks of a Schiaparelli master work: saturated color, silk velvet fabric (her favorite), sharp shoulders paired with curving...

Incredible as separates and magnificent worn together, this ensemble is both formal and whimsical thanks to the dress's shorter length and full skirt. The coat--featuring a brilliant...

It simply doesn't get more "dolce vita" than this suit: mod A-line skirt, double knit wool, red lining, Lambretta-like hardware. Best worn atop a scooter traveling at breakneck speed...

A member of the Royal Society of Arts, fiber artist Kay Cosserat was one of the most prominent and decorated knitwear designers of the 20th century. Her u...

From its striking color to its seductive neo-40s silhouette, this is a suit unafraid to make a bold impression...which makes sense when you realize it belonged to the wife of one of the most notorious mafiosi in American history. Wool crêpe suit with peplum jacket and matching inverse pleat midi skirt. Jacket features collarless round neckline, puffed shoulders, front princess seams and finished left slash breast pocket; 4” trapunto stitched peplum backed in silk gabardine for stiffness. 4-button front closure with snap at waist, plus three ornamental buttons at each wrist; fully lined in “Louis Féraud” tonal imprint silk. Matching midi skirt with plain waistband and three deep inverse pleats from knee to hem, front and back; full princess seams front and back. Rear hidden nylon zipper closure with top button and interior hanging loops; fully lined in matching silk. fabric: wool crêpe, silk noteworthy: dry clean only alterations: secured inverse pleats where separated; original owner added snap at jacket waist condition: excellent measurements: •jacket• neckline circumference: 18” (closed) shoulders: 15” bust: 36” sleeve: 24 ½” from shoulder, 16” from underarm sleeve circumference: 15” at underarm, 10” at wrist waist: 30” length: 19 ½” from shoulder, 12” from underarm peplum sweep: 40” •skirt• waist: 28” hips: 40” length: 30”, including 2” plain waistband sweep: 48” (pleats closed), 100” (pleats open) hem: 1 ½” label: Louis Féraud (made in W Germany) / Cele Peterson...

Though its Girl Friday silhouette may fool you, this suit serves sexiness in spades thanks to its almost colorless silver hue and daring open weave. An exercise in contradictions, th...

Impeccably tailored, this dress suit bridges day (its sunny color) and evening (its opulently beaded roll neckline) with ease. Bygone construction includes felled pinked seams, deep ...

Though the mourning ensemble Jacqueline Kennedy wore to JFK’s funeral was a shift and jacket, this bouclé suit is that outfit’s near twin. Complete with her preferred Peter Pan colla...

Don’t let the color fool you into thinking it’s a Disco-era castoff. A dash of Elvis (the lapels), a pinch of YSL ("Le Smoking") and a touch of couture (the curvy tailoring and labe...

“Tailor of the stars” and a darling of the Cinecittà Studios, Emilio Federico Schubert created incomparable garments that celebrated La Dolce Vita before it had the name. Though Vale...

A charming mix of 1960s influences, this skirt suit pairs Mod contrast trim with the A-line midi lengths typical of the latter part of the decade. Featuring a unique scalloped rear skirt hemline, this suit is striking from both back and front and is easily broken into separates for use with other pieces. Vintage charcoal gray coat...

Demonstrating uncharacteristic restraint, Versace produced this demure suit that buttons to the throat near the end of his too-brief career. Its mini skirt length and iconic Medusa buttons are the only allusions to the designer's typically much bolder designs. Vintage pale gray-lavender and white micro-gingham suit jacket with heavily padded shoulders, pointed collar and working flap pockets each front hip; buttons to throat with 5 alternating-size carved Medusa...

With its gold, purple and petrol roses this suit is the ideal complement to Fall’s changing leaves; better still, its puff sleeve jacket is a mirror image of Dior’s 2023 Fitted Jacket with Puff Sleeves. The frog closures and front and back ruched skirt add an Asian flavor reminiscent of a traditional Quipao dress. Short sleeve pencil suit with puff sleeve jacket and knee length skirt. Jacket features front frog closures, Mandarin collar and tulle-lined shoulders for extra stiffness. Skirt features front and back 7” wide ruched panels from waist to hem for extra narrow fit; left side notch at knee for ease of walking. Left zipper closure. Both pieces lined in cream silk. fabric: silk satin noteworthy: dry clean only condition: excellent with original tags unattached repairs: none measurements •jacket• collar: 2” tall shoulders: 14” sleeve length: 5 ½” from shoulder, ¾” from underarm sleeve circumference: 15 ½” bust: 36” waist: 28” length: 18” from shoulder, 19” from rear neck, 11” from underarm sweep: 35” •skirt• waist: 26” hips: 36” length: 23 ¾” including 1 ½” plain waistband sweep: 34” with side slit closed, 36” open hem: ¾” side slit: 4 ¼” label: Milly of New York...

A Hindenburg survivor, Philip Mangone was born into a family of Italian tailors and favored the sleek, military silhouettes he employed while designing ...

Angular, sexy and powerful from top to bottom, this satin suit is built of two pieces that can be worn together, as separates, or with our complementary Milly Autumn Roses suit listed under separate cover. With a sly nod to Gaultier’s fierce conical bodices and a skintight ruched pencil skirt that cups the derrière, the set has an edgy femininity that demands attention. The lining of each piece matches the exterior of the other, creating a sophisticated, intentional mismatch. Mismatched skirt and jacket set with complementary lining. Chocolate satin jacket features gently conical bust, surplice bracelet sleeves and 2” self ruffle around all edges. Clutch silhouette with no closures; fully lined in petrol silk to match skirt. Skirt features front and back 7” wide ruched panels from waist to hem for extra narrow fit; left side notch at knee for ease of walking. Left zipper closure; lined in brown silk to match jacket. fabric: silk satin noteworthy: dry clean only condition: excellent with original tags unattached repairs: none measurements •jacket• shoulders: 14” sleeve length: 19” from shoulder, 13” from underarm sleeve circumference: 13” bust: to 38” length: 16” from shoulder, 17” from rear neck (not including 2” ruffle around neck), 8 ½” from underarm sweep: 34” •skirt• waist: 25 ½” hips: 35” length: 23 ¼”including 1 ½” plain waistband sweep: 33” with side slit closed, 36” open hem: 1” side slit: 4 ½” label: Milly of New York...

Brimming with understated European luxury, this tonal taupe suit strikes just the right balance between strength and femininity. The softly flowing trousers complement the gentle cur...