1958 Arnold Scaasi Couture Museum-Held Red Dahlias Floral Silk Strapless Dress & Swing Jacket

A truly magnificent, well-documented Arnold Scaasi custom couture vibrant red dahlias large-scale floral print silk dress and matching ruby-red satin jacket dating back to his 1958 fall/winter collection. Scaasi started his career designing for Charles James. From James, Scaasi developed his idea of the body as an armature for biomorphic geometry during the same era that Saint Laurent at Dior was creating the pure geometry of the trapeze. In addition to designing looks for various First Ladies, he created gowns for a number of renowned actresses such as Elizabeth Taylor, Lauren Bacall, and Catherine Deneuve. This strikingly beautiful ensemble is sure to make you feel like an Old Hollywood starlet. Luxurious silk, in the prettiest ruby red dahlias large-scale floral print, feels heavenly to the touch. The strapless bodice has intricate interior boning to really help keep the nipped waist shape. I love the sculpted bubble ruched skirting, lined with a petticoat to ensure the perfect 'fit and flare' silhouette. The matching ruby red satin swing coat is equally as stunning. The gently curved neckline and lean, long sleeves read so chic as the playful shape is true wearable art. You’ll be thrilled to find spacious hidden pockets on either side. The coat lining matches the dress perfectly, so when you hold it open, it's such a picturesque moment! We were thrilled to see the same set on display at the Museum of Fine Art in Boston — a testament to the designer’s prodigious genius. An original 1958 editorial of our dress ensemble can also be found in 'Scaasi: A Cut Above'; a book featuring some of the designer’s most remarkable looks. Whether you wear this to a wedding or red-carpet premiere, you’ll be making memories in a breathtaking piece of fashion history. 

Measurements

Dress

Bust: 34-35 inches (can accommodate larger cups)

Waist: 26 inches

Hips: Free Sweep

Length top to waist: 9 inches

Length waist to hem: 30 inches

Matching Coat

Sleeve Length: 21 inches

Total Length:43 inches

Shoulder to shoulder: 14.75 inches

This gorgeous Arnold Scaasi custom couture dress and swing coat ensemble is in wonderful condition with no noticeable rips, holes or stains. Presents beautifully. Extraordinary attention to construction with fully boned bodice. Perfectly working back original metal zipper. Only sign of age is that the back waist area looks to have been let out at some point. Please message for detailed pictures. Highly wearable and an investment piece that will only continue to increase in value