Description
This early 1950s sundress set in a novelty print cotton piqué fabric features golden yellow and black feathers on the dress, plus a contrasting black piqué bolero jacket. The waist-length, boxy, cap sleeve jacket uses the feathers print on its wide lapels. The dress uses the plain black fabric to trim the top of its square neckline. The sundress has bust darts for shaping the bodice, wide straps, a fitted waist seam and a gently flaring, semi-full skirt. The dress fastens down the front from neckline to hips with small black plastic buttons. A narrow sash belt in the feather print cinches the waist. Both pieces are unlined, except for a small section of print fabric (attached to the lapels) interfacing the jacket’s front opening. I have photographed the dress both clipped and unclipped from the mannequin to better show its shape and actual size, which I estimate to be a modern size medium to large (see detailed measurements, below). This deadstock 1950s sundress set was found in a long-closed dress shop, and it was quite dusty from its many years sitting and waiting for its new life! It is in good, sturdy condition. I have soaked and laundered it to make it pretty and wearable again, but it is still less-than-perfect. Issues still present include: one tiny mark on the right lapel, a couple of small spots on the back of the upper bodice, and some overall yellowing to the background color of the print fabric. It is now more of an off-white shade than what I’d guess was originally brighter white. This 1950s true vintage summer sundress set’s crisp cotton fabric should comfortable in even the hottest weather.
SIZE: approx. modern L.
DRESS:
- Bust: 41 inches flat with a bit of extra cup room, to fit approx. 39-42.
- (Best for 36C/38B up to 38C/40B, I’d guess.)
- Waist: 34.5 inches flat, best fit for 33.5 max.
- Hip: 47 inches flat, to fit loosely for 43 max.
- Length: 47 inches from shoulder to hem in front.
- Underarm to waist: 8.5 inches.
- Waist to hem: 29 inches.
JACKET:
- Length: 16 inches from back of neck to hem.
- Sleeve: approx. 4 inches long with 16-inch flat opening.
LABEL: Catherine Fashions, in jacket
