For the print lover/wearer/collector, a lovely Averardo Best dress in cool tones...
I would like to start by saying that 1970's is my best guess for the era of this dress. I've handled quite a few Bessi dresses, and although this one's label and fabric are reminiscent of older, circa 1960's Bessi dresses, the prominent shoulders and silhouette lean more towards late 1970's to 1980's even (although at this point the Bessi label had changed, the bold block letter signature in the print is a late 1970's to 1980's detail).
This dress is made of a super fine silk jersey knit (one of the finest -and softest- I've worked with), featuring a mixed flora print in cerulean to light blue tones. The classic Bessi border trim detail is present at rounded neckline and cuffs. The silhouette is fairly fitted; with slim long sleeves, a princess seam bodice. But, below the waist a lovely flair creeps into the skirt and is finished with a full, box-pleat style ruffled hem. Entire dress is unlined (mainly opaque) and has self-fabric shoulder pads with medium thickness. Center back closure is a hand-sewn nylon zipper with hook + eye finish. The overall condition is very good, with a few flaws; three areas of darning on fairly prominent holes, light snags/runs throughout upper bodice, one repaired run in fabric at left armsyce (arm pit, and this is the only issue not present among the photographs, since it is at the underarm area -please contact me for additional pics) and one small area with light grey marks at back right shoulder - please see pics for full details. Label reads 'Bessi, Firenze Italia' with the garment care label having faded to white.
Measurements*:
- 16" across from shoulder to shoulder
- 23" sleeve length
- 35" bust
- 30" waist
- 40" hips
- 43" total length from shoulder to hem
- 29" length from waist to hem
*measurements vary slightly due to light stretch in knit fabric
Feel free to contact me with any questions or inquiries
♥,
Miss Master
This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage boutique in New York, New York.
