1960s Sybil Connolly Pleated Linen Two-Piece Dress

all couture all the time

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The marriage of an amazing handmade fabric and a beautiful silhouette is the happiest one of all. But not many textile designers can produce a soft, wearable garment and a lot of fashion designers buy fabric that has been designed by someone else. Few stand out for their ability to think of every detail; Issey Miyake, Bonnie Cashin and Sybil Connolly all jump to mind. Sybil's signature was "mushroom pleated" linen that does indeed resemble the gills of a wild mushroom. Inspired, like the aforementioned designers, by organic architecture, her skirts, tops and dresses are still wildly feminine. A classic two-piece dress that would have been a stiff column if rendered as a single sheath, we also love the versatility of having two pieces to play with. Ankle length skirt to pair with an Oscar de la Renta Spring 2009 lace blouse (think Marisa Tomei at the Golden Globes) or an abbreviated top to wear backwards in place of the predictable Chanel jacket. A gorgeous shade of mossy green in tissue linen with an emerald silk crepe de chine lining, the skirt is piped in the same fabric. Both delicate and tough, anyone would think this was silk but the weight and matte finish belies silk's sheen and slub. Completely handfinished, the interior construction is a labor of love. With a Dries Van Noten sleigh bell bracelet and massive Marni necklace, we love everything about its attitude. Top zips in back, opening completely. Made in Ireland, the bust measures 34", shoulder to shoulder 14", outer sleeve 24" and length from shoulder to waist 18". Skirt has a 26" waist and is 43" long. Excellent condition. $895.00
the bodice

the back

the skirt alone

the fabric

the handstitched lining

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