1960s Betsey Johnson Tinsel "Helen of Troy" Dress

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While Betsey Johnson is practically a household name, she used to be a "boutique designer" and started out in the mid 60s, along with designers like Tiger Morse, as just a little independent gal making her way in the fashion world. But it was the 60s after all - a decade that changed the world more than any other. The Vietnam War, the birth control pill, the Civil Rights movement and feminism all cleared a path for designers like Gernreich and Johnson to create a new voice in fashion. So what people like Ossie Clark and Thea Porter are to the history of fashion in the U.K. Betsey Johnson is to us and that's a wonderful thing. From motorcycle jackets to dresses, Betsey was found of using metallic ribbed fabric in the mid 60s, as she did in this mini for Paraphernalia. With a distinctly Grecian bent, the bodice has attached ties under the bust that criss-cross and wrap, a la Helen, and sleeves that are swashbuckling full with slits from shoulder to wrist so your arms pop out. Zips up the back with a simple jewel neckline, we love this with patent heeled mary janes and a massive sterling ring from Finland. Bust measures 36", shoulder to shoulder 16.25" and length 37". Excellent condition. sold
the bodice

the back

the slit sleeves

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