Jean Louis is the designer who created that dress that Marilyn Monroe was sewn into when she sang Happy Birthday to President John F Kennedy. Louis worked in the movies heading the costume department at Columbia Pictures before starting his own label in 1961. Once he began designing under his own label he concentrated on suits and evening wear and was known for his beautiful fabric choices. This caftan is the perfect example of his eye when it came to choosing fabrics. It is absolutely stunning.
This is an incredible caftan that makes a striking statement with its combination of that vivid pink silk with the gold and silver metallic thread that runs over its entire surface. The base is a ultra light silk organza has a slight iridescent quality to it and this has been layered over a fine tissue silk inner lining. Woven onto that is an over sized floral design done in gold and silver thread. This combination gives it the glamorous and exotic feel that the piece has and is is incredible to see in the light. The front has a thick braiding border that is made from a gold metal thread and pink cording. This is tightly braided and runs around the neckline and down to the hem. On the upper part where it opens one side extends out into loops and the other into little frog knots. The dress is full and easy through the body and the sleeves are cut to be extra wide. It is as light as a feather and it is just beyond. Overall great condition with notes to review below
Fully lined in a pink tissue silk and slips over the head to wear. Some point the hem was cut and not resewn. I have chosen to leave it this way so that you have every available inch and you can have it to your perfect length. There is some light fraying and the beginning of separation here in there along the edge of the sleeve. I see a bit of fraying and separation here and there along other seams and some small tearing to the fabric here and there. It is perfectly wearable as it is without doing a thing but these are pointed out for accuracy. The loose and easy cut should allow it to fit a variety of sizes.
Sleeves: approx 22" from natural shoulder
Shoulders: no true defined seam
Bust-hips: 28-29" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 54" from neck to unfinished hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: OSFA
Item# DD4392
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.