1930’s Ivory Leaf Motif & Blush Pink Silk Satin Floral Appliqué Bias-Cut Trained Couture Gown

ID: 0824262

Size: small

Condition: excellent

This incredible 1930's ivory silk satin leaf motif bias-cut gown with blush pink appliqués is the epitome of romantic 'Old Hollywood' glamour. The decade produced some of the most alluring evening wear of the twentieth century. The introduction of bias cutting allowed dresses to follow the natural curves of the body with an ease that had been impossible in earlier, more structured clothing. Actresses such as Jean Harlow, Carole Lombard and Marlene Dietrich wore slinky satin gowns just like this both on and off screen. Although unlabeled, this extraordinary couture example greatly resembles something Madeleine Vionnet might have created, particularly due to its ingenious construction and fluid draping.

Fashioned from lustrous ivory silk satin, the fabric is printed with a stunning leaf motif that subtly emerge as the light moves across the surface. Cut on the bias, the gown skims the figure through the waist and hips before gently widening toward the floor. The bodice features a softly scooped neckline finished with a folded band, while a handmade ballerina-pink silk flower blooms at one shoulder. Additional pink satin leaves are appliquéd on either side, cleverly extending into a pair of sashes. These can be wrapped around your waist and tied at your side as we show on our model, or fastened at the back in a dramatic bow with trailing streamers. The flower, leaves and sash elements are all entirely hand-stitched—a wonderful couture detail that speaks volumes about the workmanship. Even the shoulder construction is phenomenal. Rather than conventional straps, twisted pink satin forms one continuous piece that travels over the shoulders, loops through the upper corners of the bodice, and stretches horizontally across the back. Beneath this, the ivory silk plunges into a deep draped V, exposing much of your upper back while falling into soft folds. Completing the gown, a slightly asymmetric train spills beautifully across the floor, adding drama with every step.

This is 1930's fashion at its finest, and we can only imagine the fabulous woman who originally wore this custom couture creation over ninety years ago. Today, this gown would be an epic archival choice for a bride searching for an unconventional wedding look, or a sensational piece to wear on the red carpet.