Sz 10

NWT (with defects) Y2K Vintage Niki by Niki Livas Strapless Embroidered Sequin and Crystal Ballgown with Blue Tulle Overlay

Flat measurements:
Bust - 17.75 inches
Waist - 14.25 inches
Body Length - 49.5 inches
Free hip
no stretch but some boning and projection up top

A beautiful and romantic piece that could be a recital/pageant gown or a costume piece for a show set in the 19th century or 1950s. I estimate this is Y2K vintage. It is brand new with all tags with some shelf wear defects, which are pictured. ( As far as I was told, this gown and the same gown in a few other sizes were purchased for a show set and were ultimately never used, but they were probably crammed in a closet for years and got snagged on other items.)
A few of the sequin and bead combinations are missing and in 2 spots those formed small holes in the tulle overlay, but it is so light that it cannot be seen except up close. Some beads are also missing inside one of the embroidered flowers on the back near the waist. I also did some repairs to rips in the tulle along the left side seam, and much of the repair runs along the seam and cannot be seen at all. I used clear nylon thread-- Maybe you have a wizard of a tailor who can redo the repair if you wish. The upper of those 2 repairs also has a very small hole near it, which I left as is because it's less visible than a repair would be.

I love the embroidery detail on this gown - there are also clear AB crystals with prong settings sprinkled in and those details make this dress so special. I think it may actually work for a true 10 with a small waist or an 8 - I had to clip it back for the front shot on my size 2 to 4 dress form. The zipper tends to be a little sticky when it gets right into the transition between the skirt and the bodice but it does work. There is tulle lining so this gown is pretty poofy and should not need a crinoline.

This item is sold from a vintage boutique in Cleveland, Ohio.