1930s Dress by Mainbocher

Very good vintage condition: I feel like some of the colors are faded or something? But it's not noticeable and I don't think it is enough to affect the value. There are also a couple holes in the sleeve netting. Again, don’t think it’s a major issue. Will note other things I found below.

• No fabric label, but would say silk

• Cowl neck with button placket closure at back

• All buttons present and accounted for

• Raglan/Bishop sleeve hybrid

• Sleeves have flower shape cutouts with fine tulle appliqued in

• Sleeve cuff is smocked with elastic. Does seem to still have a small amount of stretch. Is not stretched out. In pretty good shape for being nearly 100 years old!

• All seams seem to be in good solid condition. Nothing split and are pretty sturdy

• Side snap closure on left

• Original belt

• The only damage I found was the tulle on the inside that is keeping the cowl in place was torn about an inch. I did fix it.

When you work in vintage for as long as we have, sometimes you come across something that makes your heart skip a beat. That “holy grail” type thing that you never thought you would ever see. Well, here you go.

This is by Mainbocher! He was a significant designer in the early-mid part of the 20th century. He was also the only American to run a successful haute couture house in Paris. Ooh la la! He has pieces in the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Collection, as well as other museums, and is famous for designing Wallis Simpson’s wedding dress when she married the Duke of Windsor. Fashion History here!