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Aesthetic Open Back Black Velvet Ruff Gown w Train, Hearst Castle - M-L, 1930s

About the Item

Eye catching for its liquid draping, open back and dramatic train, this gown is an unmistakable reminder of Hollywood’s Golden Age, when decency laws left designers scrambling for ways to outline the female form without simultaneously uncovering it. Regal enough for a trip down a spiral staircase, which it took at Hearst Castle. Bias cut gown with bateau neckline and 3 ¼” self ruffled collar; 2 ½” wide x 11” long V-shaped cutout at center back. Long, billowing sleeves with gathered cuffs and two velvet-covered buttons each wrist; gathered blouson bodice. Skirt features ruched insets at front and rear knee; front center slit and rear train. Over-the-head construction with left bodice slit and seven miniscule snaps plus one hook and eye closure at side waist; unlined. fabric: silk velvet noteworthy: dry clean only alterations: reinforced seams where necessary and invisibly repaired one 2mm hole at left breast condition: very good - excellent with above repair and light nap misdirection measurements: collar: 3 ¼” neckline opening: 10” across shoulders: 14 ½” sleeve: 25 ½” from shoulder, 19” from underarm (including 1 ½” cuff) sleeve circumference: 14” at upper arm, 7” at cuff bust: 50” waist: 34” hips: 42” length: 57” from shoulder, 49” from underarm (front); 71” from shoulder, 62” from shoulder (back) sweep: 116” train: 14” front slit: 14 ½” label: no label present size: no size tag present; comparable to modern size med - large due to shoulders
  • Dimensions:
    Marked Size: none; comparable to size M - L (US)Bust: 50 in (127 cm)Waist: 34 in (86.36 cm)Hip: 42 in (106.68 cm)Shoulder to Hem: 57 in (144.78 cm)
  • Style:
    Aesthetic (In the Style Of)
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Invisibly repaired one 2mm hole at left breast; light nap misdirection.
  • Seller Location:
    Tucson, AZ
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 0618.10.0051stDibs: LU864318641752

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