DESCRIPTION: One of the nicest LBDs we've ever had (alas, photos simply can't do it justice). Ca. mid-50s' Larry Aldrich cocktail or party dress is made of rich black rayon in a silky feeling, fine crepe weave suitable for year-round wear. Features different design elements that work beautifully together. Fabulous collar treatment--deep scoop neck gathered in front into a bow-like trim, fastened in back with hooks & eyes, and a wing detail that falls out over the shoulders. Slight blouson-style bodice has a cummerbund waist that fastens in back with hooks & eyes. Very full, accordion-pleated skirt ends in a deep inverted back panel that's flat so you can sit without crushing your pleats! There's a stiffened organza petticoat stitched in to the skirt, so it will swirl on the dance floor and swish when you walk. Exceptionally well made, with inner waistband ribbon stay, neatly finished seams, hand stitching, etc. Underarm gussets, back metal zipper. Note that dress is a true rich black, but some photos have been lightened for detail.
* Larry Aldrich (1906-2001) began making clothing in 1927 but his own name didn’t appear on labels until the 1940s. His clothing was stylish, with Paris fashions being adapted for a more conservative sensibility in the U.S. He was a collector of modern art, and in 1957 became very involved in art collecting. At that point he made Marie McCarthy (who had been with the firm since 1943) the head designer. In 1972, Aldrich retired from the clothing business to concentrate on developing his art museum, the Aldrich Museum of Contemporary Art. He sold his business to Lew Prince, and the label became simply “Aldrich.”
CONDITION: Body of dress is excellent to near mint; I see no flaws. I spied a small hole in the attached petticoat, which, of course, doesn't show. I would guess this has been worn just once or twice.
SIZE: About a modern 4. But go by the dimensions below! We suggest you compare to a dress you have of similar style or fit. Remember to leave room for your body! Bodice fit is somewhat flexible--can be worn loosely for a more blousy look, or more fitted.
Bust: 35 1/2"
Waist: 27" (can be made smaller by moving hooks & eyes over)
Hip: 38" (plus more from ease in pleats)
Bodice length, from top of shoulder to waist: 17" (this is a fairly long dimension, but remember that the dress has a slight blouson bodice, so the waist seam will sit at your waist, and the extra fabric gives the bodice its blouse! If you're long-waisted, the bodice will be more fitted on you.)
Dress length, down center back: 47 1/2" down center back
SHIPPING NOTES: Shipping includes insurance. However, to some international locations, dress must ship via USPS Priority Mail (at extra cost). If you're outside the U.S., please contact us prior to ordering to verify shipping details. We are not responsible for your country's duty fees, and can't mark the item as a gift.
Member VFG.
* Designer information in part courtesy of Vintage Fashion Guild's Label Resource.
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