1950s Cardinal Brown Silk Chiffon and Feather Trim Dress

This late 1950s to early 1960s chestnut brown silk chiffon dress was likely made for one of Detroit's luxury department stores such as J.L. Hudson. 'Cardinal' may have been one of their premium in-house brand lines. 

The dress has a chiffon bodice which is gathered into pleats with many tiny covered buttons down the centre front.  The sheer 3/4/ length sleeves taper at the wrists with zipper fastenings. The scoop neckline features a flamboyant ostrich feather trim setting this dress apart as a statement piece and making it a perfect choice for winter parties. The generous calf length skirt has additional silk crepe and chiffon under layers and there is a central zip fastening at the reverse. In very good vintage condition overall. There is a small, well-executed repair on the right sleeve close to the bottom line of the feathers and some thinning of the feathers from the left shoulder. This arresting piece would best suit a US size 2, UK size 6 due to the petite measurements.

MEASUREMENTS:
BUST - 31.5 in. (80.01 cm)
WAIST - 25 in. (63.5 cm)
HIP - 36 in. (91.44 cm)
LENGTH - 44 in. (111.76 cm)