This evening dress by Sidney Smith is absolutely stunning and is so much better in real life than it appears in the photographs.
Made in the 1950's it is made from heavyweight brocade in vibrant blue with a floral design in metallic pink, green and gold. It has a fitted bodice which is lined in the front and features 4 sections of boning to help the bodice keep its shape. The skirt is fully lined and the lining has the blue fabric on the hem because the outer-skirt is made up of 4 large panels with curved edges so you see a peak of the underskirt in the raised parts of the skirt.
It has pleated bust detail and fastens down the back with a metal zip.
The quality of the piece is exceptional and it is a weighty dress, weighing in at 1.7kg and has a wonderful swish to the skirt as you move.
A real stand out piece!!
Measurements
The dress will fit a 36-30-42 but to ensure that it will fit you properly, please compare the measurements below to a similar piece you own. Please note the bust and waist measurements have been taken on the inside of the garment.
Bust up to 36"
Waist up to 30"
Hips free
Underarm to waist 7"
Top of strap to waist 17"
Waist to hem 42"
Circumference of skirt at hem 124"
Condition
Very good with the following minor points to note;
- on the inside of the skirt there is a band of black stiffening fabric to help the skirt keep shape and the fabric smells a bit odd, like a vintage swimming costume
- on very close inspection there is some foxing to the skirt, all below knee level, and only seen when really looking for it because the woven design makes it hard to spot