According to the 'master of femininity' (Christian Dior), a cocktail dress, was to be a 'little black thing' which should be worn during early hours of the evening, that one would 'mingle' in whilst wearing... this lovely Hattie Carnegie example has captured Dior's true meaning of the cocktail dress and little black dress!

 

Fashioned from soft, black floral lace, with a satin ribbon band. Constructed with an illusion neckline, and dropped waistl, ending in a widened, bouffant skirt. I've shown it over a small petticoat to give the skirt fullness, though a less full look could be achieved if desired. The dress will provide, not only a provocative & flirty mood, but a figure flattering shape to the wearer, thanks to the elegant & elongated waistline (always a slimming effect)! It's flared skirt is comprised of very abundantly gathered lace, at the dropped waistline.

 

Fully lined & boned at the bodice for support. Fastens at the back with a zipper, whilst the lace overlay fastens with snaps. Very cleverly, Carnegie has used a series of small silk covered buttons, and placed them atop the snap fasteners, to act as a disguise for the snaps! Therefore, all the buttons on the lace are in fact non-functional, and do fasten with snaps (far more convenient!). Labelled 'Hattie Carnegie / Blue Room.'

 

 

Measurements: Bust 36", Waist 27," Low Waist (taken at the satin band) 40," the length is also 40" (hangs at about knee-length).

 

The condition is almost Excellent- there has been a professional mend done to the lace, which doesn't detract, as it was nicely done. Also, to be very picky, I found a few tiny pin holes here and there.