Ted Lapidus 1970s Flame Red Couture Dress

This Ted Lapidus dress is circa 1977 and is made entirely by hand; this label is probably the haute couture label. The beautiful flame red, raw silk georgette fabric is both striking and feminine. The dress features an embellished, wide scoop neckline with a Greek key pattern. The pattern is sewn in sequins and rocaille beads resembling mini rubies. Bugle beads align along the very top and bottom of the embellished band. The bodice of the dress is fitted and sleeveless but the deep collar frill that runs around the entire circumference of the neckline acts as both a covering for the top portion of the arms and as a little capelet. This design detail gathers underneath the top seam of the embellished neckline. The skirt is made up of two layers with the top layer being asymmetric tissue panelling to give the dress an ethereal, floaty quality. The skirt is gathered at the waistband in folded pleats.

The dress is in absolutely extraordinary vintage condition. There are no issues of any note and this was probably worn once. We have found one tiny black mark that is hidden in the folds of the dress. The dress does up at the back with the original, concealed centre seam zip. There is a reinforced internal ribbon waistband and the dress retains its original couture handmade belt with the same Greek key design. It fastens with metal hooks and there are three rows of double holes so the belt can be placed in one of those as desired. The belt has fabric fraying on the edges but this is minor in nature as this is covered by the capelet part of the dress. The new owner may wish to adapt this belt to a ribbon fastening to gain a few inches. This is easily done with a leather hole punch and very YSL in style.

MEASUREMENTS:

BUST - 31 in. (78.7 cm)
WAIST - 25.4 in. (64.5 cm)
HIP - 36 in. (91.44 cm)
LENGTH - 55.7 in. (141.5 cm)
SHOULDERS - 12 in. (30.5 cm)
BELT LENGTH - 24 in. (70 cm)