This gown and matching stole are absolutely beautiful and a testament to the man who would become the appointed designer to the Queen of England. Norman Hartnell was one of the British Couturiers who dressed the royals and the aristocrats. London's couture industry established itself after the 1st World War and distinguished themselves from the court dressmakers by presenting seasonal collections. Hartnell opened his couture house in 1923. By 1947 his house was thriving and he was dressing the British Royalty. He was best known for his romantic evening dresses and this dress is a perfect example of that period. This gown is not labeled however, it was originally bought at auction and attributed as Hartnell in 2010 from Kerry Taylor auctions and that has been verified by myself. The dress is entirely made of silk tulle netting and has the sweeping lines that he was renowned for during this period. The top is sleeveless with an almost balletic feel to it. Inner layers of silk retain a girl's modesty. Note that the inner layer sits very low on my mannequin's bust however it was a touch big on her and I do not like to over-pin. It will sit properly on a girl it fits better. The back is cut quite low and reveals an expanse of skin. The skirt sweeps the floor and literally has yards and yard of tulle that make it up. There is also a separate black tulle underskirt to add further volume (note that it was not photoed with this underskirt so the skirt will be more full if worn with this). The skirt is adorned with raw edged ruffles of tulle scattered across its service and then adorned with scattering of beads to catch the light. The matching capelet flows down the back is worn off the shoulders on the arm. It too is adorned with the same bead and tulle detailing. It is very romantic and very beautiful and a true piece of fashion history. Museum quality.
The bodice has an inner lining made of a blue and a pale pink silk chiffon with a slight texture running through it. It closes with a back metal zipper. The skirt is comprised of 3 layers - the outer silk belt with embellishment, a blue silk net layer under that, then a blue silk chiffon layer and an inner pale pink layer. The extra skirting is made of black silk tulle net and closes with hook & eye. Has its original tie silk net belt. Hand finished throughout
Bust: 18-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 18" from top of bodice to drop waist
Skirt: 40" from drop waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED
Item# DD1792
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
