1950's Marie Latz Couture Beaded Silk Gown Ensemble Worn by Yma Sumac

A truly breathtaking and one-of-a-kind creation by German couture designer Marie Latz. This special two-piece voluminous gown ensemble was custom made for Yma Sumac's 1954 sold out performance in Berlin. Yma Sumac (1922–2008) was a noted Peruvian soprano and the original Queen of Exotica. Her international fame began in the early 1950's, and she became the most famous proponent of exotica music. She is remembered best for her extraordinary vocal range, which was well over four and a half octaves. She was also quite the fashionista, and in 2010 'V' fashion magazine voted her one of the top 5 World Muses! This absolutely stunning tiffany blue silk chiffon hourglass stage gown ensemble comes straight from her personal wardrobe which Yma Sumac kept safe for decades. As shown, we are also pleased to say we have more than one image of the queen wearing this glamorous look! The fabrication is truly gorgeous; sparkling black sequins, palettes and glass beads hand-crafted into the chiffon in a skilled gradient design. I love the seductive fully-boned corset sweetheart plunge bodice that flows into a complex hourglass waterfall mermaid construction. The matching full-length sleeveless voluminous over jacket is so fresh and strikingly modern with it's vibrant magenta pink lining. The cloud-like curved hemline on both pieces finishes this set off with the perfect Old Hollywood vibe. As Damon, Yma Sumac's personal assistant, told me, "Yma loved elegance mixed with a touch of exotic. I was fascinated to see how much effort was put into each piece and what was added inside for the perfect physique no matter what her age or weight at the time." A set like this is a one-of-a-kind designer couture treasure and a true piece of celebrity fashion history. A once in a lifetime opportunity without the pressure of competitive bidding. The pictures say it all.

Measurements
Bust: 34-36 inches
Waist: 26 inches
Hips: up to 38 inches
Total Gown Length: 60 inches
Total Jacket: 62 inches

This Marie Latz haute couture custom ensemble made for Yma Sumac is in excellent wearable condition with no serious damage to note. Presents beautifully. Perfectly working hand-set back metal zipper and wonderful full inner corset-boning. Only signs of age are some missing sequins, a wear mark to the bottom jacket which looks to be from a heel and surface dirt to the bottom hemlines. Please message for detail pictures. Museum quality and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value.