This gown is insanely gorgeous and in person it is even more so. The depth of the rich glossy black silk velvet and how it feels as it skims over the skin is amazing. It is completely cut on the bias so the dress seems to simply fall into place and the closure is a simple set of hooks set on the base of the low back with another hook at the top of the neck. The emphasis is all on the back with it left almost completely bare. More weights are set into little pouches about the back cascade of silk chiffon ruffles. This hold the silk in place and allows the ruffles to kick and flow as you move. A very clever placement of the weights as it causes an amazing effect when you walk away. Little silk bows sit at the small of the back and conceal the hooks. Because the hooks are spaced you almost get a glimpse of skin between them making the dress almost scandalous. You get the distinct impression that with a simple undoing of a hook or two the dress would slither to the floor and leave a very bare girl! It is heartbreaking and truly beautiful! Excellent condition

Bust: variable because of the open back
Waist: will fit 12"-15" flat across the back from side seam to side seam because of the bias cut
Hips: 18-20" flat across the back from side seam to side seam (cut on the bias so you may have a bit of room here if needed
Length: 58" from neck to the lowest part of the hem
The dip at the back: plunges to 17" from the neck

The dress is unlined and closes with a series of hook & eye under the bows at the low back. The silk velvet is bias cut. The rhinestones and beads are hand set on the collar. little silk pockets are sewn into the edge of the collar and along the edge of the hem where the silk chiffon cascades out at the back - these have metal disks inside to weight the dress properly so it sits on the body perfectly. It came with a black silk chiffon shawl that is not pictured but will be included - this piece is sound and wearable as well. Remarkable condition with no outstanding flaws to note other then the natural patina of time. For a piece that is almost 100 years old is it to be considered in outstanding, museum quality condition.

Note that antique and twenties pieces are final sale. They will be packed exceedingly well and we only sell pieces that will stand up to the stress of shipping, however, having pieces potentially shipped multiple times through multiple customs and countries is too hard on garments that are historically important and deserve to be treated with love and care. Please purchase accordingly.

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Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML (2-6)

Item# E450

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival