#6954 $1,200
Deco rhinestone/velvet evening dress, c.1925
The asymmetrical style is a triumph of design when viewed from any angle. The side train is especially dramatic. I also love the tension of style opposites: the plush sensuality of the silk velvet vs. the hard edged, pavé panels of rhinestones. Early 20th century dresses, made from real silk velvet, have a luxurious feel not found in modern synthetics.
The bodice is shaped with top-stitched diagonal seams. It is weighted on the inside to hang properly over the under dress. The dress is lined with pink silk crepe de chine and slips over the head with no closures. Both layers of the skirt are finished with scalloped hems.
Art Deco reached its peak in the decorative arts in 1925. This magnificent Deco evening dress pairs an understated but luxe monochromatic palette with streamlined rhinestone embellishment in a stylish, sophisticated modernism. Art Deco style was "the most glamorous and popular style of the twentieth century" according to the Victoria & Albert Museum.
The label, partially hidden in a taken-up seam, reads "William Hardy, Inc./24 West 57th Street/New York." I discovered it after I had finished the photography.
The condition is very good to excellent. The dress is structurally sound and can be worn. If you look at the inside seams, you can see the velvet color has changed unevenly from dusty rose to peachy rose. This is hardly a flaw in view of the the result: a precious antique beauty.
There are several pale stains on the lining. The stains do not show when the dress is worn. The velvet on the undecorated shoulder is worn, but the wear is barely noticeable. Taken as a whole, the strong presence of the dress outweighs the imperfections.
It measures: 40" bust and waist, 42" hip, 43" from shoulder to front hem (longer in back).
