“Frederick’s of Hollywood” was a lingerie and clothing line created by Frederick Mellinger. Known for the sexy imagery in its mail-order advertisements at the back of magazines, the line was also associated with the glamor of Hollywood, where his first store was opened on Hollywood Boulevard in 1947. This deadstock Frederick’s of Hollywood-labeled 1960s romper or playsuit in black and white gingham reminds me a bit of the character Mary Ann from Gilligan’s Island: the sexy version of the girl next door! The sleeveless bodice has a deep V neckline fastened with 2 hooks above the front plastic zipper—wear them unhooked, if you want to show a bit more skin! Diagonal bust darts and vertical darts at the waist add shaping. The short shorts have a slightly “cheeky” diagonal hem, a bit shorter at the outside of the thigh than they are at the inner thigh. The romper is made of lightweight, crisp cotton and polyester blend fabric, which is unlined. Although the gingham check colors are definitely black and white, the black has a bit of a blue undertone to it. I found what looks to be a very similar gingham check, zip-front playsuit (item B in the last photo) in a Frederick’s catalog from 1965, which originally came with a cover-up overskirt. This darling gingham 1960s romper or playsuit is in excellent to mint condition, appearing unworn.
Size: S
Bust: 38” flat, to fit up to 36-37” max.
Waist: 29” flat to fit up to 28” max. (fabric has no stretch)
Hip: 38” flat, to fit up to 36-37” max.
Length: 27” from shoulder to hem at side seams
Underarm to waist length: approx. 8” (no waist seam)
Rise: approx. 14” in front and 16” in back, from waist to center of gusset
Leg openings: 22” total, around
Shoulder to shoulder: 13.5”
Label: Frederick’s of Hollywood
