A truly breathtaking and ultra rare Howard Greer custom couture 'Old Hollywood" red rose silk strapless high-low gown with matching over-sized shawl dating back to the early 1950's. After serving in the war, American designer Howard Greer stayed in Europe, where he continued working for Lucille, Paul Poiret, and Molyneux. After returning to the United States in 1921, Greer was hired as chief designer for Paramount Pictures. While at Paramount, Greer designed costumes for over 47 films, mostly uncredited, including The Ten Commandments in 1923. It was during his time at Paramount, that Greer hired a young, inexperienced assistant who would work for him for 3 years; Edith Head. Because Howard Greer discovered and trained her, Edith would go on to win a record eight Academy Awards for Best Costume Design between 1949 and 1973. Howard Greer was also credited by Vogue magazine with "a sixth sense about the fashion future." He was the first major Hollywood costume designer to take the leap of establishing his own couture house. Greer specialized in dresses that he specifically designed to look captivating seated at a table; focusing on unforgettable necklines. His pieces took weeks to complete and required numerous fittings. They were also exorbitantly priced. This stunning dress ensemble is fashioned in the most impressive large-scale red roses print silk. The garment features a fully boned strapless bodice, meticulously crafted to provide both structure and a perfect fit. The nipped waist is accentuated by draped silk chiffon that cascades dramatically into a high-low design, effortlessly adding fluidity to the design without overpowering the silhouette. The accompanying long silk shawl is a versatile piece that can be styled in a variety of ways, adding an additional layer of sophistication to the already captivating look. This Howard Greer masterpiece is the epitome of “Old Hollywood” style.
Measurements
Bust: 34-35 inches
Waist: 26 inches
Hips: up to 37 inches
Length top to waist:10 inches
Length waist to hem (shortest): 31 inches
Length waist to hem (longest): 45 inches
This Howard Greer for Neusteters custom couture designer gown ensemble is in beautiful condition with no noticeable stains, rips or alternations. Perfectly working back metal-zipper in place. After close inspection we found some tiny holes to the matching over-sized shawl which are next to impossible to see. Please message for detailed pictures. Highly wearable and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value.