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It's easy to want to compare a Mary McFadden and a Mariano Fortuny pleated dress but it is only fair to do so visually. Certainly when you get to touching and wearing the two, Fortuny is always light and airy while a McFadden is somrthing you're going to wear in a more practical sense. Not a whole lot of going in and out of cabs in a Fortuny or spilling Veuve Clicquot on the lower half after you've had one too many. But Mary? She's really ready to go until dawn. Undoubtedly inspired by the style of the Marchesa Casati, Mary took the Fortuny-pleated gown and made it more modern with lavish embellishments and synthetic fabrics that were rich in color and heavy to touch. A luscious violet version with beaded lotus blossoms and coiled snakes along the squared neckline, all in turquoise, pink and gold. A silk sash winds twice around the waist, starlit with gilded sequins. Dramatic shoulders that are shaped with internal pleats and organza, the arm slims down to a skintight wash of pleats at the forearm. Gorgeous with jewelled Rene Caovilla sandals and an antique Mughal gold and ruby armband (bring your own security, please). Bust measures up to 38", shoulder to shoulder 16", outer sleeve 23" and length 53". Ideally suited for a modern 8 or small 10, it is in excellent condition. $925.00 |
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