The 1940s feel to this dress is distinctive and it was this feature that allowed me to find the date of the collection. We tracked down a photo of Karl with a model in 1974 wearing a dress from that years collection that has that same 1940s feel to it that as we see on this example. The date also matches what I was told about the purchase date by the original owner. It is these collections during the years between 1969 and 1975 that we still see heavily influence the modern bohemian feel of Chloe today. Examples of his work during this time period are held in museums around the world and are rare finds.
At first glance you would think this is a dress straight off the 1940s runway. It has that same cut and feel and even the silk used has that feel of the early crepe silks. You can see the more modern touches (for 1974 that is) with the black lace that edges the sleeves and finishes the hemline. In person it is even better then how it photoed as you can really get lost in that gorgeous print of dragonflies, flowers and butterflies that cover the entire surface. The cut is classic forties in feel with a loose and easy fitting bodice whose cap sleeves are en extension of the fabric used for the bodice itself. So there are no seams there to break the line or disrupt the pattern. The skirt under that falls just past the knee and is also cut to be loose and easy. At the hips on either side sit bows that combine a matching printed fabric with a coral silk that add detail and a touch of volume there. The dress is made from a fine black silk that has that wonderful design screened over it surface in a way that give it the appearance that it was hand painted. It came with its matching fabric tie that you can use to cinch in the waist or tie around the neck. Excellent condition
Unlined and closes with a back, hidden set painted metal& nylon zipper. Has its matching tie belt. Hand finishes throughout
Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 30.5" from waist to hem
Tie: 45" x 2.5"
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD3050
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.