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Evening Dresses and Gowns

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Evening Dresses and Gowns For Sale
Bob Mackie 1980s Size 6 Light Pink + Grey Silk Chiffon Strapless Grecian Gown
Bob Mackie 1980s Size 6 Light Pink + Grey Silk Chiffon Strapless Grecian Gown

Bob Mackie 1980s Size 6 Light Pink + Grey Silk Chiffon Strapless Grecian Gown

By Bob Mackie

Located in San Diego, CA

Phenomenal vintage late 80s Bob Mackie Couture light pink and gray silk chiffon, lace and rhinestone encrusted strapless Grecian gown ! Features grey lace and rhinestones on the bodi...

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1980s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

1950s Philip Hulitar Ivory and Black Velvet Pearl Encrusted Beaded Gown
1950s Philip Hulitar Ivory and Black Velvet Pearl Encrusted Beaded Gown

1950s Philip Hulitar Ivory and Black Velvet Pearl Encrusted Beaded Gown

By Philip Hulitar

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

This vintage Phillip Hulitar 1950s, ivory silk chiffon and black velvet cocktail dress is the perfect party dress or great for wedding. Gown has intricate black velvet, ivory silk chiffon, pearl encrusted, leaf-motif bodice and its double-layer, silk chiffon ballroom skirt...

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1950s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

S/S 2003 John Galliano Rhinestone Buckle Black Floral Ruffle Slip Gown
S/S 2003 John Galliano Rhinestone Buckle Black Floral Ruffle Slip Gown

S/S 2003 John Galliano Rhinestone Buckle Black Floral Ruffle Slip Gown

By John Galliano

Located in West Hollywood, CA

From John Galliano’s Spring/Summer 2003 collection, this slip gown features a ruched bodice adorned with vertical rows of rhinestones and a central floral appliqué, finished with a s...

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Early 2000s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Ruben Panis 1970's Fuchsia Ombre Sequin Disco Column Gown With Shawl Scarf
Ruben Panis 1970's Fuchsia Ombre Sequin Disco Column Gown With Shawl Scarf

Ruben Panis 1970's Fuchsia Ombre Sequin Disco Column Gown With Shawl Scarf

By Ruben Panis

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A stunning red carpet-worthy disco-age column gown by the late, cult favorite Beverly Hills designer, Ruben Panis. The meticulously placed rowed sequins adorn a lightweight wine-colo...

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1970s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

SUE WONG 00's Vintage Silk Black Beaded Evening Gown w. Train Maxi Dress
SUE WONG 00's Vintage Silk Black Beaded Evening Gown w. Train Maxi Dress

SUE WONG 00's Vintage Silk Black Beaded Evening Gown w. Train Maxi Dress

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Sue Wong Vintage 2000's Jet black 100% silk outer Beaded Adjustable tie open back Pullover Size USA 6 but fits XS to Small NWT's, excellent condition, no flaws This dress is sooo hot...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

OSCAR DE LA RENTA 2006 Vintage Silk Chiffon Gown Maxi Dress
OSCAR DE LA RENTA 2006 Vintage Silk Chiffon Gown Maxi Dress

OSCAR DE LA RENTA 2006 Vintage Silk Chiffon Gown Maxi Dress

By Oscar De La Renta

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Oscar de la Renta Vintage FW06 100% silk chiffon Intentional frayed trimmings Velvet rosette Invisible back zip Size USA 6 but fits more like a USA 0/2 aka XS/S Excellent condition,...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

MARC BOUWER 1999 Vintage Blue Sequin Midi Dress
MARC BOUWER 1999 Vintage Blue Sequin Midi Dress

MARC BOUWER 1999 Vintage Blue Sequin Midi Dress

By Marc Bouwer

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Marc Bouwer Vintage 1999 Dusty pale light blue with iridescent sequins throughout High neck turtleneck Keyhole cut-out at bust Size USA 6 but fits like an XS/S Excellent condition, m...

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1990s Evening Dresses and Gowns

ROBERTO CAVALLI 2001 Vintage Psychedelic Print Chain Accent Maxi Dress
ROBERTO CAVALLI 2001 Vintage Psychedelic Print Chain Accent Maxi Dress

ROBERTO CAVALLI 2001 Vintage Psychedelic Print Chain Accent Maxi Dress

By Roberto Cavalli

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Roberto Cavalli Vintage Runway print SS01 Opaque and stretchy Yellow gold chain Pullover Size Small Excellent condition, straps seem to be stretched out, so I have them clipped on th...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Lillie Rubin Vintage Black Tiered Silk Chiffon Strapless Evening Gown
Lillie Rubin Vintage Black Tiered Silk Chiffon Strapless Evening Gown

Lillie Rubin Vintage Black Tiered Silk Chiffon Strapless Evening Gown

By Lillie Rubin

Located in Sparks, NV

This strapless tiered silk gown by Lillie Rubin comes with a matching wrap. Ruched structured bodice. Rear zip closure. Details: Fully Lined Back Zip and Hook Closure Marked Size: 4...

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Late 20th Century American Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage 1960s Silk Cocktail Dress with Ruffled Hem
Vintage 1960s Silk Cocktail Dress with Ruffled Hem

Vintage 1960s Silk Cocktail Dress with Ruffled Hem

Located in Sparks, NV

Chic black silk cocktail dress with a ruffled hem and dolman sleeves. Details: Fully Lined Back Metal Zip and Hook Closure Estimated Size: Medium Color: Black Fabric: Feels...

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1960s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

1960s Helga Vintage Metallic Silk Cocktail Dress
1960s Helga Vintage Metallic Silk Cocktail Dress

1960s Helga Vintage Metallic Silk Cocktail Dress

By Helga

Located in Sparks, NV

Absolutely stunning 1960s vintage silk satin cocktail dress by Helga. Metallic brocade paisley design over gray silk animal print. Nipped waist with bow detail. Stunning construction...

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1960s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

J MENDEL 2004 Vintage Runway Silk Espresso Brown Evening Gown Maxi Dress
J MENDEL 2004 Vintage Runway Silk Espresso Brown Evening Gown Maxi Dress

J MENDEL 2004 Vintage Runway Silk Espresso Brown Evening Gown Maxi Dress

By J Mendel

Located in Leonardo, NJ

J.Mendel Vintage Runway FW04 Dark brown Distressed silk Pointelle Lined This dress is lightweight Invisible back zip Whipstitch throughout neckline, sides, and back Size USA 8 but fi...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Bill Blass 1969 Silver Brocade Floral Long Sleeve Documented Full Length Dress
Bill Blass 1969 Silver Brocade Floral Long Sleeve Documented Full Length Dress

Bill Blass 1969 Silver Brocade Floral Long Sleeve Documented Full Length Dress

Located in Los Angeles, CA

An extravagant late 1960's gem by Bill Blass documented in the September 1969 issue of Vogue. This beautiful piece is a sparkling example of the late '60s style of America's elite. T...

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1960s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

SUE WONG 2005 Vintage Runway Silk Beaded Gown w. Shawl
SUE WONG 2005 Vintage Runway Silk Beaded Gown w. Shawl

SUE WONG 2005 Vintage Runway Silk Beaded Gown w. Shawl

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Sue Wong Vintage Runway FW05 100% silk outside Has tulle underneath to keep mermaid portion full Invisible side zip Adjustable tie back Deep v halter neck Tons of delicate ornate bea...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

AZZEDINE ALAIA 1990 Vintage Runway Editorial Long Sleeve Knit Mini Dress
AZZEDINE ALAIA 1990 Vintage Runway Editorial Long Sleeve Knit Mini Dress

AZZEDINE ALAIA 1990 Vintage Runway Editorial Long Sleeve Knit Mini Dress

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Azzedine Alaia Vintage Runway FW90 Editorial in Elle France as worn by Yasmeen Ghauri Pullover Size Large, but fits smaller Excellent condition, minor feeling of wear, no flaws Measu...

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1990s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Pab 1960s Vintage Screen Print Silk Chiffon Mod Dress in Yellow and Orange
Pab 1960s Vintage Screen Print Silk Chiffon Mod Dress in Yellow and Orange

Pab 1960s Vintage Screen Print Silk Chiffon Mod Dress in Yellow and Orange

By Pab

Located in Sparks, NV

Amazing 1960s vintage screen printed mod dress by Pab. Long sheer sleeves and vibrant print in orange and yellow. Details: Partially Lined Back Zip with Hook Closure Marked ...

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1960s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

Bob Mackie Elizabeth the First 1970's Black Devoré Velvet Gown with Crystals
Bob Mackie Elizabeth the First 1970's Black Devoré Velvet Gown with Crystals

Bob Mackie Elizabeth the First 1970's Black Devoré Velvet Gown with Crystals

By Bob Mackie

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A rare couture piece designed by Bob Mackie and Ray Aghayan from their short-lived Beverly Hills custom atelier Elizabeth The First. This stunning gown has been crafted from a black ...

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1970s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chloe Black Silk Taffeta Dress wth Ruffled Collar
Chloe Black Silk Taffeta Dress wth Ruffled Collar

Chloe Black Silk Taffeta Dress wth Ruffled Collar

By Chloé

Located in Sparks, NV

Fully Lined Side Zip Closure Marked Size: T 36 Color: Black Fabric: Silk Taffeta Label: Chloe Bust: 36" Waist: 32" Hips: Free Shoulders: 16" Total Length: 37.5"

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21st Century and Contemporary French Evening Dresses and Gowns

JULIAN JOYCE by MANDALAY Pewter Embellished Evening Gown Maxi Dress Plunge Lace
JULIAN JOYCE by MANDALAY Pewter Embellished Evening Gown Maxi Dress Plunge Lace

JULIAN JOYCE by MANDALAY Pewter Embellished Evening Gown Maxi Dress Plunge Lace

By Mandalay

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Julian Joyce by Mandalay Vintage Pewter with silver and gold lace and embellishments from the waist up Has a little train Extremely well fitting Details are insane In my fit pic I tw...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Opulent Silk Burgundy Gold Metallic Chiffon Gown Designed by Aidan Mattox 21st c
Opulent Silk Burgundy Gold Metallic Chiffon Gown Designed by Aidan Mattox 21st c

Opulent Silk Burgundy Gold Metallic Chiffon Gown Designed by Aidan Mattox 21st c

Located in University City, MO

Opulent burgundy gold metallic sheer silk chiffon gown designed by Aidan Mattox The elegant silk empire backless gown is designed with sheer silk chiffon that undulates & glides...

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21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Evening Dresses and Gowns

DONNA KARAN 90's Vintage IT42 Silk Marbled Print Slip Gown Maxi Dress
DONNA KARAN 90's Vintage IT42 Silk Marbled Print Slip Gown Maxi Dress

DONNA KARAN 90's Vintage IT42 Silk Marbled Print Slip Gown Maxi Dress

By Donna Karan

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Donna Karan Vintage Late 1990's 100% silk Beige tan marbled print Pullover Size IT42 Excellent condition, no flaws Measurements in inches laying flat: length 55, pit to pit 15 to 16,...

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Early 1900s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Guy Laroche Pink Fur Cocktail Dress
Guy Laroche Pink Fur Cocktail Dress

Guy Laroche Pink Fur Cocktail Dress

By Guy Laroche

Located in Sparks, NV

Incredible soft dyed pink goat fur sheath dress by Guy Laroche. You will be surprised at how soft this is! Fully lined with rear zip and hook closure. Front patch pockets. 100% young...

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2010s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

JOHN GALLIANO 1999 Vintage Silk Floral Brocade Little Black Slip Dress
JOHN GALLIANO 1999 Vintage Silk Floral Brocade Little Black Slip Dress

JOHN GALLIANO 1999 Vintage Silk Floral Brocade Little Black Slip Dress

By John Galliano

Located in Leonardo, NJ

John Galliano Vintage AW99 Jet black floral textured brocade pattern 100% silk Pullover Cute signature buttons in the front There is room to let the straps out an inch Size F40 fits...

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1990s Evening Dresses and Gowns

VINTAGE 90's Black Silk Satin Floral Embroidered Handkerchief Asymmetrical Dress
VINTAGE 90's Black Silk Satin Floral Embroidered Handkerchief Asymmetrical Dress

VINTAGE 90's Black Silk Satin Floral Embroidered Handkerchief Asymmetrical Dress

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Purchased from Les Habitudes Vintage 1990's Jet black Black floral embroidery Black beading Pullover Missing brand, size, and comp tag, but definitely 100% silk Excellent vintage con...

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1990s Evening Dresses and Gowns

ICEBERG 2006 Vintage Runway Silk Embellished Ruffle Gown + Shawl Maxi Dress
ICEBERG 2006 Vintage Runway Silk Embellished Ruffle Gown + Shawl Maxi Dress

ICEBERG 2006 Vintage Runway Silk Embellished Ruffle Gown + Shawl Maxi Dress

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Iceberg Vintage Runway SS06 Pink, orange, and red hues perfect for this Summer Matching shawl with fringe Beautifully embellished halter neck 100% silk Made in Italy Has an attached ...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Y2K Peter Pilotto Avant Garde Silk Blue Green Watercolor Photo Print Dress
Y2K Peter Pilotto Avant Garde Silk Blue Green Watercolor Photo Print Dress

Y2K Peter Pilotto Avant Garde Silk Blue Green Watercolor Photo Print Dress

By Peter Pilotto

Located in Sparks, NV

Unique water color photo print dress in shades of blue and green silk by Peter Pilotto. Details: Partially Lined Back Zip Closure Marked Size: UK 10 Estimated Size: S-M Co...

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21st Century and Contemporary British Evening Dresses and Gowns

DANES 2000's Vintage True Nude Blush Liquid Silk Chiffon Evening Gown Maxi Dress
DANES 2000's Vintage True Nude Blush Liquid Silk Chiffon Evening Gown Maxi Dress

DANES 2000's Vintage True Nude Blush Liquid Silk Chiffon Evening Gown Maxi Dress

Located in Leonardo, NJ

DANES 00's or 90's Vintage 100% silk Nude blush toned Pullover Has layers, but no slit Size US 8 but fits smaller Great vintage condition, has some abrasions to the fabric and a feel...

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1990s Evening Dresses and Gowns

1980s Hermes Govantes Beaded Sequin Fringe Vintage 80s Cocktail Dress Bodycon
1980s Hermes Govantes Beaded Sequin Fringe Vintage 80s Cocktail Dress Bodycon

1980s Hermes Govantes Beaded Sequin Fringe Vintage 80s Cocktail Dress Bodycon

Located in San Diego, CA

An exceptional late 1980s Hermes Govantes cocktail dress, made in Indonesia and purchased new in Spain, beautifully preserved in never-worn condition. This extraordinarily rare piece captures the exuberance of late 1980s fashion with breathtaking hand-applied embellishment and a striking figure-skimming silhouette. The front is lavishly adorned with thousands of individually applied sequins, bugle beads, metallic beadwork, and dramatic beaded fringe that shimmers beautifully with every movement. Brilliant shades of turquoise, cobalt blue, emerald green, ruby red, fuchsia, violet, gold, silver, and ivory create a bold geometric composition evocative of the Memphis Milano design movement. The oversized turquoise circular motifs also recall Mediterranean protective eye symbolism, lending the dress an artistic and unforgettable presence. Crafted from a soft and comfortable rayon and elastane stretch knit, the dress molds beautifully to the body while allowing exceptional ease of movement. Adjustable shoulder straps provide a customizable fit, and the dress slips effortlessly over the head with no zipper or other closures. The clean, unembellished back provides a sophisticated contrast to the spectacularly decorated front, allowing the extraordinary handwork to remain the focal point. Purchased new in Spain during the late 1980s, this is a scarce example of Hermes Govantes’ work and an outstanding collector’s piece for lovers of exceptional vintage eveningwear. Marked Size: Medium Measurements Bust: 30 to 36 inches Waist: 24 to 30 inches Hips: 30 to 38 inches Length (top back shoulder seam to hem): 34 inches Condition Excellent condition. Never worn. The sequins, bugle beads, fringe, and stretch knit remain beautifully preserved, and the dress presents exceptionally well. A remarkable statement piece that pairs effortlessly with Christian Louboutin, Yves Saint Laurent YSL, Manolo Blahnik, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, or Bottega Veneta accessories. Perfect for cocktail parties, gallery openings, holiday events, resort evenings, fashion celebrations, or any occasion where unforgettable vintage glamour is desired. 1980s cocktail dress...

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1980s Indonesian Evening Dresses and Gowns

1970s Vintage Tropical Print Sheer Sleeves Chiffon Maxi Dress with Full Sweep
1970s Vintage Tropical Print Sheer Sleeves Chiffon Maxi Dress with Full Sweep

1970s Vintage Tropical Print Sheer Sleeves Chiffon Maxi Dress with Full Sweep

Located in Sparks, NV

Gorgeous 1970s tropical print maxi dress with a full sweep and sheer sleeves. Partially lined with rear zip closure and button closure at wrists. Fits like a modern size small. The b...

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1970s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

JOHN GALLIANO 2009 Vintage Royal Blue Gown Maxi Dress w. Attached Sash
JOHN GALLIANO 2009 Vintage Royal Blue Gown Maxi Dress w. Attached Sash

JOHN GALLIANO 2009 Vintage Royal Blue Gown Maxi Dress w. Attached Sash

By John Galliano

Located in Leonardo, NJ

John Galliano Vintage 2009 Royal Blue Attached sash can also be tied but I just let it hang Extra long length Invisible side zip Size IT44 NWT's, 2 small dots that you can only see u...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Red backless silk chiffon evening dress ALEXANDRE VAUTHIER
Red backless silk chiffon evening dress ALEXANDRE VAUTHIER

Red backless silk chiffon evening dress ALEXANDRE VAUTHIER

By Alexandre Vauthier

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Red backless see-through silk chiffon evening dress . Lining inside the bra only. Raw cut edge on the bottom. Top has to be tied on the back Front lenght = 148cm Back lenght = 158cm ...

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2010s Evening Dresses and Gowns

NINA RICCI 2013 Vintage Silk Mauve Ethereal Gown Maxi Dress Floral
NINA RICCI 2013 Vintage Silk Mauve Ethereal Gown Maxi Dress Floral

NINA RICCI 2013 Vintage Silk Mauve Ethereal Gown Maxi Dress Floral

By Nina Ricci

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Nina Ricci SS13 Resort Collection Vintage 100% silk A delicate medley of colors Reminds me of Chanel Size F40 fits like a USA 6 or 4 Invisible back zip Excellent Condition, only flaw...

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2010s Evening Dresses and Gowns

MARIA GRACHVOGEL Vintage Mauve Silk Evening Gown Maxi Dress
MARIA GRACHVOGEL Vintage Mauve Silk Evening Gown Maxi Dress

MARIA GRACHVOGEL Vintage Mauve Silk Evening Gown Maxi Dress

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Maria Grachvogel Vintage 100% pure silk Opalescent purple mauve Pullover The neckline can be pulled taught across, cowl, off one shoulder, etc Size UK 10 Excellent vtg condition, sl...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Black lingerie bustier dress JEAN-PAUL GAULTIER for La Redoute
Black lingerie bustier dress JEAN-PAUL GAULTIER for La Redoute

Black lingerie bustier dress JEAN-PAUL GAULTIER for La Redoute

By Jean Paul Gaultier

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Black lingerie dress . Fabric composition: 84% nylon, 12% stretch, 4% polyester. Padded and underwired bra. Detachable shoulder strap. Hook&eye closure on the middle back ( adjus...

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Early 2000s Chinese Evening Dresses and Gowns

1910's French Couture Blue Silk Chiffon Gold Embroidered Long Sleeve Belted Gown
1910's French Couture Blue Silk Chiffon Gold Embroidered Long Sleeve Belted Gown

1910's French Couture Blue Silk Chiffon Gold Embroidered Long Sleeve Belted Gown

Located in Los Angeles, CA

An exquisite 1910's French Couture evening gown in a regal shade of midnight blue. This intricate piece is composed of several layers of delicate silk chiffon including an inner lini...

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1910s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

1950s Jane Derby Vintage Black + Nude Silk Chiffon Cocktail Dress
1950s Jane Derby Vintage Black + Nude Silk Chiffon Cocktail Dress

1950s Jane Derby Vintage Black + Nude Silk Chiffon Cocktail Dress

By Jane Derby

Located in Sparks, NV

Stunning vintage early 1950s cocktail dress in black and nude silk satin and silk chiffon. Full skirt with silk lining and boned bodice. Gorgeous construction. Rear metal zip and hoo...

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1950s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

GUCCI by TOM FORD 2001 Vintage Black Cone Bra Hard Boned Corset Dress
GUCCI by TOM FORD 2001 Vintage Black Cone Bra Hard Boned Corset Dress

GUCCI by TOM FORD 2001 Vintage Black Cone Bra Hard Boned Corset Dress

By Gucci

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Tom Ford for Gucci Vintage SS01 Black cotton silk blend Hard boning throughout Structured cone bra Removable straps (strapless is also very sexy) Needs to be pressed/ironed, a steame...

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Early 2000s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Pale pink velvet cocktail dress with dévoré velvet sleeve SCARLETT
Pale pink velvet cocktail dress with dévoré velvet sleeve SCARLETT

Pale pink velvet cocktail dress with dévoré velvet sleeve SCARLETT

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Pale pink velvet cocktail dress with dévoré velvet sleeve . Main fabric composition: 75% polyester, 25% silk. Sheer rayon lining. Zip and hook&eye closure on the middle back. SIZE 3...

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2010s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Black velvet and kaki satin evening dress with scarf BILL BLASS
Black velvet and kaki satin evening dress with scarf BILL BLASS

Black velvet and kaki satin evening dress with scarf BILL BLASS

By Bill Blass

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Black velvet and kaki satin evening dress with scarf. Silk lining. Zip and hook&eye closure on the middle back. Boned. Gros-grain inside the dress on the waist. Scarf sise: 120...

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1980s Evening Dresses and Gowns

Gianni Versace Couture Vintage 1990s Pale Pink Chenille Body Con Dress
Gianni Versace Couture Vintage 1990s Pale Pink Chenille Body Con Dress

Gianni Versace Couture Vintage 1990s Pale Pink Chenille Body Con Dress

By Gianni Versace

Located in Sparks, NV

Super soft pale pink body con dress in a velvety chenille by Gianni Versace Couture. The cut on this is so flattering! Simple, elegant and chic. Details: Fully Lined Size Zip...

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1990s Italian Evening Dresses and Gowns

Elie Tahari Beaded Chiffon Floral Gown
Elie Tahari Beaded Chiffon Floral Gown

Elie Tahari Beaded Chiffon Floral Gown

By Elie Tahari

Located in New York, NY

Vibrant Elie Tahari Beaded Chiffon Floral Gown from the 2000's. Simple flared shape with long train, lightly decorated at shoulders and down back with sequins and beadwork. Super ful...

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Early 2000s American Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage Gowns and Designer Evening Dresses for Sale: Shop Dior, Chanel, Versace and More

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.