A truly breathtaking and very rare Gustave Tassell couture watercolor pink roses floral dress dating back to the late 1950's. Example of his early work are extremely hard to come by and most are only found in museum collections. Gustave Tassell was an American couturier and Coty Award winner who became a fashion star by appealing to women like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Greer Garson and Princess Grace of Monaco. Tassell designed clothes that Jackie Kennedy wore as first lady on a highly publicized goodwill tour of India in 1962. That year the fashion press hailed him as one of America's hottest new designers. A 1959 review commended his style as akin to Paris' Balenciaga. "He was inspired by both Balenciaga and Norell," said Dilys Blum, senior curator for costumes and textiles at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which showed Tassell’s work along with that of Galanos and another Philadelphia native, Ralph Rucci, in the show "A Passion for Perfection" in 2007. In this gorgeous late 1950's Gustave Tassell watercolor pink roses floral print party dress, the construction and meticulous attention to detail are comparable to what you will find in modern couture. The garment is fashioned in high quality mid-weight ivory silk taffeta with the prettiest watercolor garden motif. I love the dramatic over-sized sculpted bow bodice with a low scoop backside. The waist nips in for a figure flattering 'new look' silhouette. The fuller swing-skirt design is fabulous; dramatic but not overwhelming. A gorgeous dress that would definitely make an unforgettable bridal or wedding guest look.
Measurements
Bust: 33-34 inches
Waist: 24 inches
Hips: Free
Total Length: 42 inches
This late 1950's Gustave Tassell couture dress is in beautiful condition with no rips, holes, alternations or stains. Perfectly working original back metal zipper and hand-finished detailing. A pure work of art and a study in dressmaking technique. This garment is truly stunning and an investment piece that will only increase in value.