This is an extraordinary and early black label Ceil Chapman and is really an exceptional example of his earlier pieces. You mostly see the later fitted versions made infamous by Marilyn Monroe, but this is a true 1950s beauty and is just wonderful. The skirt is very full and made of a good weight underskirt with a very fine, tightly woven netted top skirt that floats over the inner skirt. This top skirt is incredibly full and is gathered at the bottom of the waist band in tightly space pleats that allow the fullness. The waist is nipped in with a 5" band of fabric. Onto the band are hand applied clusters of black sequins. The top of this dress is amazing! It is a tightly sequined and beaded thing of beauty that is all hand done on a fine black silk net. The net is so fine and light the the feel of the sequins is almost liquid. It is a classic fifties silhouette with a high neck, cap sleeves and rounded shoulders. I love the sexy but subtle keyhole at the back. Amazing!

Shoulders: no defined seams
Bust: 18.5î flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14î flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 12" from shoulder to waist
Waist band: 5"
Skirt: 29" from waist to hem

The upper bodice is backed in a fine black silk net. The remainder of the dress is lined in a thick weighted black silky rayon. It closes with a side metal zipper and has a button at the beck of the neck above the keyhole. It was styled over a light crinoline that is not included. There may be a sequin missing here or there but it looks as if all are present. There are a number of small break areas in the fine net top skirt that have been repaired or left as is. There is so much fabric that I feel these do not detract but I have priced it lower as a result.

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML (4-6)

Item# DD956

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