1950s Italian Alta Moda Pink Silk Crepe Ruched Sequin Dress

This bubble-gum pink gown is Italian couture, known as 'Alta Moda' and was made in the early 1950s. Displaying many hallmarks of the era, it showcases a swirling full-skirt, cinched waist and bustier top - all tailored from a high quality pink silk crepe. The detailing and execution is exceptional, a rare term used at Circa Vintage and this is the finest dress of its type, age and condition we have seen for some years. The stiffened skirt has a panelled construction and each panel is ruched from waist to hem, adorned between each fold with rows of tiny iridescent sequins which shimmer as they catch the light; the effect is that of pearlescent shells on the seashore. The sleeve bands are pleated and frame the sweetheart neckline forming a v to the rear. There is ruching in the cross-over bust detailing which is neatly formed above the wide waistband. The dress fastens at the back with the original tonal pink zip and single hook-and-eye clasp. Interior wise, the top is boned and the bodice backed with calico to provide structure to the silk crepe. The skirt lining is a work of art and is fully lined in coordinating pink shantung silk with dainty weights at intervals to position the skirting. The original label is still attached and reads “L. Pedrini Milano”.

The dress is in absolutely superb vintage condition with no flaws of any note; it is very fresh and bright looking with no sequin loss. Due to its age it has no composition or size label so please check the below measurements closely. The fabric has no stretch to it. Our model (5ft 4in / 163cm) is a UK 6-8 or US 2-4 and this was a bit roomy in the bust. It would suit someone a little taller and could fit sizes up to a US 4-6 or UK 8-10. Tamsin is also wearing a petticoat; however, the studio photos are shown without.

MEASUREMENTS:

BUST - 32 in. (81 cm)

WAIST - 27 in. (68.5 cm)

HIP - 46 in. (117 cm)

LENGTH - 46 in. (117 cm)