#7264 $750
Hollywood-style beaded suit, 1940s
Placed between the elegant Hollywood film fashions of the 1930s and the luxe styles of 1950s, the war decade of the 1940s is often overlooked. Despite the rationing of cloth, there was still an enthusiastic audience for fashion.
This Hollywood style suit has the built-up shoulders made popular by MGM designer Adrian in his designs for Joan Crawford (Letty Lynton,1932). The style really took hold after America entered WWII. The shoulder pads signified the woman who lives her life to the full, the self-made woman.
Made from tan wool gabardine, the suit has a "Forstmann 100% Virgin Wool" label inside. The prominent line of the shoulders is softened by the full cut of the jacket.
The jacket is elaborately embellished with appliquéd soutache and bronze metallic beads. It has two curved welt pockets and a fabulous swing back. The jacket is lined with matching crepe; the straight skirt is unlined. The skirt closes on the side with a metal zipper.
The compelling curvilinear design intimates the ancient Persian Tree of Life motif. The mesmerizing design emphasizes the centripetal motif, which, like a magnet, draws and holds the viewer's attention.
The condition is excellent. It is clean and ready to wear.
The jacket measures: approximately 42" around, 22" sleeve length, and 28" from shoulder to hem.
The skirt measures: 28" waist, 38" hip, and 30" length.
