1950’s Ceil Chapman Black Crepe Crossover Dress

A beautifully cut mid 1950s little black dress by celebrated American designer Ceil Chapman, known for her exceptional draping and figure-enhancing silhouettes. The bodice features a flattering crossover v-neck front and back with delicate ruching that sculpts the low-slung waist. Short cap sleeves provide a touch of coverage. The waist is internally boned for structure and support, and lined in black for a smooth, comfortable fit. The full skirt falls with wonderful drape and movement to below the knee or even mid-calf if you are below 5ft 4in. It fastens neatly at the back with a zip.

In very good to excellent vintage condition - extremely slight colour change on the sleeves which is barely perceptible even in bright light. The zip is a modern replacement. The dress retains the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union (ILGWU) label for 1955 to 1963 at the bottom of the hem. Our model's sizes are: Bust: 33" (84cm), Waist: 26" (66cm), Hips: 34" (86cm) and Height: 5' 7" (170cm). She's a size UK 6, US 2 and there was room to spare.  A good fit in our opinion for up to a UK 10 or US 6 and sizes smaller. 

Notes on Designer:

Ceil Chapman was one of the most celebrated American designers of the 1940s and 1950s, renowned for her figure-enhancing draping and refined cocktail silhouettes. A favourite of Hollywood’s golden age, she dressed screen icons including Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Lana Turner, Jane Russell and Ava Gardner.

MEASUREMENTS: 
BUST - 36 in. (91 cm)
WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm)
HIP - 44 in. (112 cm)
LENGTH - 43 in. (109 cm)