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Saks Fifth Avenue has always enjoyed the reputation for selling fabulous stuff - even in the 1920s. But what started as retail for Sophie Gimbel (wife of Saks' president Adam), quickly turned into a design gig when her in-house Salon Moderne boutique became wildly popular before World War 2. Understated in a way that Americans usually are not, her clothes were original and sophisticated but they allowed the women wearing them to stand out rather than being just mannequins for some over-the-top design. Peggy Guggenheim in a Schiaparelli lobster gown? Only because she was Peggy Guggenheim - most women would have been overwhelmed by the thing. An amazing dress should compliment you, not make the person inside disappear. That is exactly what a vintage Sophie of Saks dress does. A stunning metallic gold lame gown that is really two separate pieces: an asymmetrcal gown and detached "jacket" with a cap sleeve that ties around the waist. Ruched along the sides of the bodice, the hem is slit to the knee on both sides and layered with another wash of gold fabric underneath so it swishes around when you move. Innovative design, this is slim from shoulder to ankle and pairs beautifully with a black velvet minaudiere nestled in Nars "Chinatown" manicured hands and Laurence Dacade d'Orsay pumps. Lined in nude silk crepe, the bust measures 34", waist 25", hips 36" and length 55". Excellent, if not flawless, condition. $1120.00 |
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