Bill Blass launched his label in 1970 when he bought out the Maurice Rentner label and re-launched it under his own name. Blass was arguably one of the most famous of  the American designers. His forte was the ability to mix simple styles with luxurious materials and his evening wear in particular seemed to have of always being flattering on the body. This is a gorgeous example of his work into the 1980s. The teak silk is even better in person and it is just beautiful.

The fabric of this dress is stunning. It almost has a sueded feel to it and it is all cut on the bias. It falls from the shoulders in a stunning sheath down the body and widens out as it nears the hem. The front is cut in a way that feels more simple and straight and then at the back is where you have a lot of drama. It is sleeveless and the neck is cut straight across at the front. Each shoulder has a intricate detailed art deco feeling spray of beads across the top of the shoulder. The beads are an iridescent copper gold and they pick the light up wonderfully. The back is exceptional and when you walk away or turn in this dress no one is going to forget you. The silk is gathered in around the top of the shoulders and then drapes down past the waist. He did not add a waist seam to the front of the dress but at the back he did put on in to both bring it in and give the silk a place to be gathered into to. This also gives you more shape as well. The fabric drapes down from the shoulders and around the sides a bit and then is gathered back into that low center point of the back. This leaves the entire back bare and exposed. This unexpected flash of skin is seriously sexy and the drama of that draping is fantastic. The fabric is also gathered more at the back of the skirt so that you have a bit of gorgeous movement happening when you move. It is really a stunning piece. Excellent condition

The dress is lined through the bodice in the same fabric and the skirt is unlined. It closes at the back with an overlapping flap of silk that hooks into place. Hand finishes throughout. The easy cut should allow it to fit a range of sizes

Bust: 17-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 56" from top of shoulder to front hem, 59" to the back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# DD4423

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.