A fabulous dress with all the vampy vixen vibes! This late 1930s dress is made from an inky black, slinky velvet and was homemade by its original owner. It’s a rare find in a volup size and is still very wearable.
The dress features a sleek cut with a sweeping shape, a wide neckline, and unique sleeves that combine bishop and dolman styles, fastening at the cuffs with poppers. The waist and sleeves have tight pleating details, adding structure and elegance. There are small poppers and a hook and eye at the waist on the right side to secure the dress, with a button closure at the back of the neck. Belt loops have added by the former owner, and I’ve styled it with both a 1930s paste clasp belt (not included) and a modern silky purple belt (included).
Condition: In good condition and presents beautifully, this dress was previously worn as a costume on stage and has had minor adjustments from the costume department. As mentioned, new belt loops have been added, along with an elastic thread waist inserted internally (pics 12 & 13). The velvet is silky smooth to the touch, with only subtle signs of wear. There are a few areas missing from the inner lining (pic 16), and the hem has been hand-sewn to correct some previous hemming and to repair small rips (pics 14 & 15). Black velvet is challenging to photograph, so please feel free to reach out if you'd like additional photos or videos for a closer look.
Shown on an approx UK size (bust-y) 14-16 mannequin (B:41"/W:32.5"/H:43.3”)
- Bust: due to the batwing shape can fit up to 50"
- Shoulder: roughly 22"
- Waist: 32"
- Sleeve: 24.5"
- Hip: free 40"+
- Length: 49 ”
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We use the vintage condition chart from the Vintage Fashion Guild. This is as follows:
- Excellent: Used, with no noticeable flaws or unworn and in perfect condition.
- Very Good: Used, with minor flaws, no repairs needed.
- Good: Visible wear. Minor flaws and/or optional repairs needed.
- Fair: Numerous flaws, repairs needed, fragile.
- Poor: Extensive damage. For display or study only.
Vintage clothing is often homemade and/or follows a very different size guide to modern-day clothing. Please ensure you check the measurements carefully on the product description before making your order. We use a rough sizing guide based on waist sizing:
XS | Waist 22"- 25"
S | Waist 26"- 27"
M | Waist 28"- 30"
L | Waist 31"- 32"
XL | Waist 33"- plus
Please do not take the size guide as gospel as the size stated here may not be the size you would normally buy. It is very important to know your bust, waist and hip sizing ahead of purchase.
Refer to our care & condition guide for expert tips on preserving your vintage.
