DESCRIPTION: Perfect party, prom, or cocktail dress! 1950s' full-skirted number is fashioned from crisp taffeta (feels like rayon) and features rhinestone-studded upper bodice plus applied strips of velvet top and bottom. Bodice is unlined; skirt is lined with buckram to give it more body. There is a side metal zipper with a placket open at the top, fastening with a hook and eye. SO much easier to get into than the traditional side zip. There are thread belt loops, but no belt. You can add one (pink one shown is NOT included) or cut off the loops. The circle skirt is shown with a full crinoline, but there is room for more fullness if desired. Knee length on a 5'10" mannequin.

Comes from the estate of a very fashionable lady who had designer, name-brand, and custom-tailored dresses and outfits. It has no label or tags and may have been custom made for her.

Please view photos in zoom mode! Dress is rich, deep black; some photos lightened slightly to show detail.

SIZE: Not labeled; estimated at a modern small (6). May possibly fit up to an 8, but would be snug (can be let out a bit). Shown unpinned on a size 2/4 mannequin; the top is slightly large and is clipped to fit. Please use these dimensions and your own measurements to determine fit. There's a little flexibility in fit through the bodice because the hook and eye under the arm can be moved to make it a bit larger or smaller. The waist dimension is maximum; can be pulled tighter with belt.

* Bust: 35/36"
* Waist: 28", seamed and fitted
* Hip: Full/free
Bodice: Approx. 15 1/2" from top of shoulder to waist
Dress Length, top of shoulder to hem: 37" (no hem; can be shortened but not lengthened unless you add a strip of black velvet at the bottom)

* Measured flat on outside and doubled unless otherwise stated.

CONDITION: Excellent overall. At the back, slightly above the waist, there is a very small frayed spot about 1/8" across. Does not go all the way through the fabric (there is a sort of backing to the taffeta) and presents as an irregularity in the fabric (if you notice it at all). Will not show if dress is worn with a belt.

This item is sold from a vintage boutique in York, Pa.