This is an extraordinary and early black label Ceil Chapman and is really an exceptional example of her earlier pieces. You mostly see the later fitted versions from Ceil for sale out there, the silhouette made famous by Marilyn Monroe, but this is a true and earlier 1950s beauty and is just wonderful. The skirt is very full and made of a three separate layers of silk - an opaque silk for the very inner layer topped by two more layers of silk chiffon that float over that. This top two layers of the skirt are incredibly full with literally yards of silk used in them. The waist is nipped in with a piped detailing. The bodice of this dress is amazing. It is made of the same fine black silk chiffon and the upper bust and sleeves are completely hand gathered and softly pleated into place to gently circle the shoulders and bust. The neckline is cut quite wide and depending on your shoulders you could easily get away with wearing this more off shoulder. The silk is so fine and light the the feel of the dress is magical. Excellent condition.

The bodice is interlined in a black silk and the skirt lined in silk as described above. It closes with a back painted and metal zipper.It did not style it with a crinoline but it has room for a light one if you wanted more fullness. Hand finishes

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from natural neck to waist
Skirt: 26.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2540

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.