#2859 $995
Helen Bond Carruthers cashmere sweater, 1950s
Carruthers sweaters have become hot collectibles with soaring prices. Her most sought after designs have unique, intricate detail and/or distinctive color. This sweater of heavenly periwinkle blue cashmere is a special find.
Helen Bond Carruthers was an extraordinarily creative designer from Versailles, Kentucky. She produced one-of-a kind decorated cashmere sweaters in the 1950s. She came from a prominent Kentucky horse breeding family, who invited rich and famous friends for the annual Kentucky Derby festivities.
Carruthers made the most of Derby week, showing her latest creations to her celebrity guests. Elizabeth Taylor, a devoted customer, appeared in a 1950s issue of Life Magazine wearing a Carruthers sweater. Her creations were sold mainly in wealthy resort boutiques throughout the South.
The use of hand-embroidered appliqués cut from antique garments was a favorite Carruthers' technique. In the sweater the designer used ivory tambour-embroidered motifs on a blue ground, creating the effect of Wedgewood porcelains.
The sweater is fashioned from the softest possible periwinkle cashmere. The body is lined with ivory silk chiffon. The sleeve cuffs and bottom ribbing have been turned under. The gros grain ribbon waistband features the Carruthers label—see the bottom picture. The sweater closes in front with faux pearl buttons.
The condition is excellent. It is clean and ready to wear.
It measures: 36" bust, 27" waist, 18 1/2" sleeve length (perfect for showing off vintage bracelets), and 18 1/2" from the shoulder to the hem.
