The designer Diane Freis is best known for creating feminine, comfortable dresses in gorgeous, colorful print fabrics. Many of these lovely creations are made of lightweight polyester georgette, as is this one, dating from early 80s. The 2-piece dress set consists of a V-neck top with rayon knit trim and a flared, trumpet-style skirt, each made of several different patterned fabrics, as was often the case with her designs. An off-white and black zigzag patterned fabric forms the majority of the top and skirt. Black and off-white striped knit fabric finishes the top’s hem and sleeve cuffs. A wider, striped rayon sweater knit forms the upper bodice of the top, above fuchsia zigzag embroidery trim. Polka dot and novelty print fabric in black, off-white, royal blue, and fuchsia pink is used for the full, three-quarter-length sleeves and the inset, pleated triangular panels at the skirt hem. This fun novelty print includes longhaired ladies, running horses, and a cloud/wind design. The top has large shoulder pads and is intended for a loose fit. The V-neckline has narrow fabric ties trimmed with plastic beads. The skirt flares from waist to hem, with increased fullness created by the inset, pleated panels. The top and skirt both pull on, with no zipper or other fastenings except the neckline ties. The lightweight polyester georgette fabric feels like it floats above the body when worn, and does not wrinkle—always a plus!
In good, quite wearable condition, this Diane Freis 80s novelty print 2-piece dress has a few issues to note—as seen in my close-up photos. The original waistband of the skirt (probably a shirred self-fabric design, like many Freis dresses) has been replaced with the band of black elastic by the original owner. The elastic thread at the edges of the striped knit top and sleeve hems is looser than it would have been originally, and could be replaced if desired. There is some yellowing to the white sections of the printed fabric, most noticeable at the center back of the top, and near the hem of the right sleeve. There are also some tiny snags in the fabric at the inner edge of the right bust, unlikely to be seen when the top is worn.
SIZE: approx. M
TOP
Bust: 42” flat, but intended for loose fit. Best for approx. 38”
Top hem: 38” flat, stretching up to 42”
Length: 22.5” from back of neck to hem
Underarm to hem: 13”
Sleeve length: 20.5”
Shoulder to shoulder: 14.5” flat, stretching up to 16”
SKIRT
Waist: 28” flat/unstretched, stretching up to 36”
Hip: 52” flat, very loose fit for 46” or smaller
Length: 33”
LABEL: Diane Freis Original, 100% polyester georgette, trim 100% rayon
