From the estate of Mrs. Alfredo Duggan (owner of an incredible Worth gown which was recently sold by us #20024), is another of her extraordinary pieces of eveningwear... vivid green satin damask trained evening gown with golden threads woven throughout to create the glittering leaf-pattern of the damask. I love the manner in which the designer chose to pair a gentle & natural cut, with a fabric that further exectues this mood.

 

The bodice area is fashioned from an under-layer of pale pink chiffon, with gold lame lace atop, and a further layer of golden chiffon which billows gracefully to the waist. Decorated along the outer chiffon edges with very tiny golden glass beads, with a beaded tassel at one side of the sleeve. The golden lace beneath the opaque chiffon, delicately subdues it's glisten, and provides a whispered focus—simply beautiful.

 

Featuring an uplifted train which has been clasped into a rosette, and smoothly gathers the fabric across the skirt. Also having a trailing back hemline which has been weighted along the inside to allow for a continuous correct shape.

 

The dress is very similar in design and appeal to the Worth which Mrs. Duggan also owned, it is definitely apparent that her tastes were very defined in high-fashion, and it would be no surprise at all if this exquisite example was originally by a great couture house of Paris (as she probably would have had nothing less)! Please see the below Vogue magazine clip for her portrait, which was taken by E. O. Hoppe, she is said to be wearing an ensemble by Lucille in the photograph. A photocopy of this will accompany the dress.

 

It's lined at the bodice with silk and with a wide petersham waistband. The fastenings comprise of a series of snaps & hook and eyes across the back.

 

 

Measurements: Bust 36", Waist 26".

 

The condition is Excellent- as you know, the gown has many layers of delicate 'tissue' silk chiffon, and none of them show any breakages or tears! Very often, this fabric perishes in gowns of this nature, resulting in devastating damage, but thankfully this example has been very well preserved, as it was probably worn but once. The lining is extremely clean, only the tiniest hint of very pale undearm discolouration has occurred to the chiffon lining, which is not visible from the exterior. Museum quality!