1950s La Reine Silk Velvet Party Dress

There's nothing that screams opulence quite like silk velvet does! The lustre of silk velvet and the way the light moves and reflects through the threads is truly unparalelled in any other velvet fabric type.  The Rolls Royce of velvet, if you will. The drape and weight is exquisite.

Not only that, but this incredible true Hollywood red is a show stopper!

This beautiful girl from the label La Reine by Retta Day needs to be noticed and she needs to party.  This has a daring (for the time) edge-of-shoulder neckline with a wide fold over collar that skims around the shoulder and then plunges dramatically in the back and is finished off with a huge statement bow. Wow!  There is a back metal lapped zip fastening and the bow fastens over the zip on a popper stud to conceal the zip and joins the two ends of the plunging back.  She has a slightly dropped waist with a very full box pleat skirt - perfect for dancing! There is an attached belt detail which can be worn to the front or back and also has a stud popper fastening. The bracelet length sleeves have a turn up housewife cuff detail.

We have accessorised the dress with an authentic vintage brooch which we think is just enough to give it that next-level lift but still understated.  Any crystal brooch would work on this dress, but you can find the one we used here.

Condition

Excellent condition, nap is directional in places which is a natural occurrence of silk velvet and we think adds to the charm (and definitely reflects more light!)

Measurements and details

All vintage clothing is measured with the garment flat and measurements doubled for width. Please compare these measurements to a garment that fits you well as often there is very little or no give in vintage fabrics.

Bust: 38 inches
Waist: 32 inches
Hips: 60 inches
Length from shoulder: 45 inches

Length from waist: 30 1/2 inches

Length of sleeve from shoulder: 20 1/2"