This piece is a true, rich black, but I have lightened most photos to show the wonderful details. Please also watch the video.

This dress is so soft! The silk-and-rayon velvet is like tiny kitten fur. Some details indicate that this is from the late 1930s, one of the best eras in fashion.

Such wonderful details and draping! The bodice gathers and is ruched below the empire waist. The short puff sleeves have a little ruching or tucking on the sides. The back waist is at natural waist height and has a half-belt of the same velvet. The pleat at center front makes sure that when you twirl (and you will twirl), the skirt flares out beautifully. It does have shoulder pads, rather small ones; I would take them out, as the Pellon has become stiff.

Measurements
bust: 34 inches
waist: 27
hips: proportional (hard to measure because of the center pleat)

Flaws: there is the expected minor crushing from 90-year-old velvet. It does not show much in motion, but the video should give you an idea. There's about a one-inch area of minor pulling at the back waist left. And that's it! This beauty is really in fabulous shape, especially for her age.

From a nonsmoking, pet-loving househole.

This item is sold from a vintage boutique in Virginia.