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Charles James Brown Satin Black Velvet Cocktail Dress

About the Item

A rare very find, rare Charles James Brown Satin Black Velvet Cocktail Dress. Dating from the 1950's this design is well recognized as his in other fabrications. In this iteration in heavy deep chocolate silk satin, James uses his extraordinary color sense to create a dramatic almost Edwardian Palette for this late afternoon cocktail dress. A jet black silk velvet collar lines the deep shawl collar and a ruby crimson silk taffeta is used for the bodice and cuff linings. These colorations are so incredibly sophisticated and elegant as all his tonalities were. Intricate cuts such as the overblown Hidenburg like balloon sleeves (cut like the thumb piece of a glove) harken back to his love of 19th Century silhouettes. The wasp waist is seamed at upper hip and a half interior crin helps to maintain the sweep the circular skirt below. A shaped waistband curves around to the back. An elaborate series of hooks, snaps and zippers allows entry from the back. Wearing a dress like this is like wearing a period "skin", the wearer becomes James' vision of modern womanhood and a silhouette such as this rarely dates. 2 variants of this dress (in suit form) are in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art 1950. Measures: 17" Bodice length, Skirt 32.5" Length, Waist 30", Hip 50", Bust 36", Overarm 27.5". Original and unaltered.
  • Designer:
    Charles James
  • Brand:
    Charles James
  • Style:
    mid century (Of the Period)
  • Place of Origin:
    United States
  • Period:
    1950-1959
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Unlabeled.
  • Seller Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU4614597422