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. The mix of colours is even better in person. It is just beautiful.
This is a stunning dress that is made out of a three pale pastel shades. The bodice is the palest possible blush pink. The panel that creates that single shoulder and the matching sash is a pale champagne taupe and then the skirt is a darker sandy taupe that still has a soft feel to it. The silk is very light in weight but has just enough structure to hold the shape that you see. The dress is strapless with a sweetheart neckline that is lightly gathered between the breasts and down each side. It is meant to be fitted through the bodice. The waist nips in and then the full skirt falls to the floor from there. The skirt is made from two layers of silk and the inner layer is the same colour as the shoulder and sash piece and it extends out from underneath the top layer a few inches. I love how this perfectly ties everything together. It is already such a pretty dress but it is that panel that sweeps up and over the one shoulder and attaches into the waist line with a series of hooks that make the dress absolutely fantastic. The panel is attached along the front waist and then you sweep it up and over the shoulder and hook it into place at the side. I love the panel worn open and swept out over the arm as I have photoed it but you could also make it sit just on top of the shoulder. You could twist it or you could have it go across the neck on over the other shoulder. You could also wrap it around the waist instead to create a wider band there and then use the sash as a turban or as a neck piece. It really gives you a few options to style this piece with. No matter how you decide to wear it it is a spectacular and dramatic detail that really elevates the dress. I love it. Excellent condition.
The bodice is lined in the same silk and the skirt is made from two layers as described above. It closes with a hidden set side zipper. The panel that goes over the shoulder hooks into place at the back.
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 9.5" from top of strapless bodice to waist
Total length: 45" from waist to front hem, 53" to the back hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4709
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