Black Velvet Dress - c. 1930

The fabric is a jet black, very soft velvet. It is very difficult for the camera to pick up some of the details because of the fabric. The very pretty lace collar is easy to discern in the pictures. What cannot be seen as well is all of the gathering at the top of the sleeves - there is about a 4" section of carefully gathered and stitched fabric. The bottom of the sleeves have long, narrow cuffs that have 6 velvet covered buttons and fabric loops to secure them. Between the gathering at the top and at the top of the cuffs, the sleeve is very full.

Also not showing well in the picture is the cut of the bodice - it is high waisted, with gathering below the bust. The dress would be worn very fitted through the waist, but flares dramatically thanks to insets of additional triangular fabric panels on the lower half of the skirt.

The collar opens at the top front, and secures with two snaps to allow the dress to be slipped over the head. There is also a small slit at the waist that secures with buttons and snaps. This side opening is small, and as a result the dress cannot be worn by someone who is broad shouldered, as the waist is very narrow.

The dress is in superb condition for its age. We haven't found any stains or tears in the fabric. There are a couple of spots on the ruching on the upper arms where the stitching is coming loose, and these should probably be re-stitched. There is also a small tear in the seam under each arm, but this could be easily repaired.

Approximate measurements: Shoulders - 13" Waist - 25" Bust - 38" Length - 46" Sleeve length - 26"

Item ID: 50283