FEATURES: Fabulous pair of hip-hugging bell-bottoms! These are from the estate of their designer, Irene Saltern, and were a sample, spec, and/or runway piece. They feature a light-blue seamed-in insert with laced fly, top-stitched side seams, and huge bells. Designed to be worn below the natural waistline and above the hipbone (see rise dimension). The brushed cotton denim is soft and comfortable.
Listing is for pants only; tops shown are not included.
Ms. Saltern designed for a number of firms (see below), and during the '70s, one of them was well-known PantPourri. There's no maker's label on these trousers, but based on other 1970s' pieces from her estate that I have, I would guess that's the firm for which she designed these.
SIZE: No label. Estimated at a modern small, most likely 4; might fit a 6. Shown on a size XS manni and were a bit too large for her. Don't go strictly by my size estimate--use the measurements. We suggest you measure a similar garment you own to determine fit. Please leave room for movement. We measure on outside of garment, laid flat but not stretched, unless otherwise specified.
MEASUREMENTS: Waist: 28 1/2" to 29" (the flap at the fly allows some flex in fit); Hips: 36"; Inseam: 32"; Rise: 9 1/4" . Circumference around hem: 30"
CONDITION: There's the slightest sign of wear at the waist, so I think these were worn once as a runway piece (many I have were). Otherwise, like new. There are some "nubs" in the brushed denim, common in this fabric. Note that the light streak in the back view is sunlight and not in the pants!
PROVENANCE: Ms. Saltern was a costume designer for the movies in the 40s and later on, a very influential figure in the booming California sportswear industry. In addition to Tabak of California, she designed for Phil Rose; her own label, Irene Saltern of California; Cynaya; PantPourri; and others. Many of the estate pieces I have were runway samples, spec pieces, and from Ms. Saltern's personal wardrobe.
Her designs tend to be classic, and can be worn as stylish, everyday pieces. The fabrics she used were exquisite, and the construction always top notch.
This item is sold from a vintage boutique in York, Pa.
