This is a special little 50s showgirl costume that has ring leader status. The costume has a fun little shrug scarf made of white satin with embroidered red polka dots and lined with buckram. I believe the shrug goes over the shoulders, but you can use your own sense of design to wear it wherever you want. The costume has a structured fitted bodice that supports the bust with a bra-like top. It has a low-cut neckline with well-placed polka dots on the bust. The costume has wide straps that are most likely meant to criss-cross in the back (based on how poorly they fit on the mannequin) and fasten with two hooks and eyes on each strap. The body of the costume is yellow satin with squiggly lines of red sequins all over. Because it is paneled and lined in heavy-weight cotton the midsection is more structured even without boning. The skirt of the costume is also made of yellow satin, striped with red satin that is trimmed with gold sequins. The skirt is fun and fruffy with a lot of volume for how short it is. In the back, the shortness of the skirt gives a peek of the underneath of the costume showing sequins and a ruffle on the derriere. Another cheeky little detail on this number. In addition to the shrug, there is a polka-dotted sash attached at the drop waist that has dramatically large ties. The shrug I have on the shoulders may be a dramatically large bow that could be attached to these ties. The costume has a large metal zipper that runs up the back for closure. It does have a tag that says Barnes Costume Co., 1130 W. Third St., Davenport, Iowa. Measurement stated 35 ½ - 25 - 38.

Condition:

This costume is in great condition considering its age and use. The most obvious flaw is the overall color bleed from the red bits of the costume. From afar the color bleed is not very noticeable. The panty front part of the costume is made of yellow cotton and has some small tears from use. There is one minor tear that was repaired on the back of the skirt where it must have gotten caught by the zipper. The costume has been professionally hand laundered and is ready to wear.

Measurements

Bust: up to 35. 5"

Waist: up to 26"

Hips: up to 38"

Length: 31"

Rise: 15"

Inseam: 2"

This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage seller in Pittsburgh, Pa.