This is a very, very early rendition of what would go onto become one of Ossie's most famous and recognizable designs. This late 1960s, possibly early 1970s maxi is based loosely on a "graduation" gown mixed with the flowing softness and drape he was renowned for and a dash of sex. The front plunges in a deep square cut to the empire waist. An attached tie wraps around and gives the gown and the wearer shape and keeps the plunge from moving about. The skirt flows from the front gathers under the neckline and then from the shoulders at the back. It cascades to the ground and is balanced by sleeves that pouf up above each cinched wrist. This dress is unusual in two regards - first the tie is shorter and wider then the long fabric ties he used later when the dress was produced in larger quantities - on this dress each tie has a satin backing, whereas later renditions are just fabric ties. And second, the fabric is not the standard moss crepe that is used later, but a lightweight, almost felt-like jersey fabric. This is the couture Ossie Clark label and it also has the Jeeves Dry Cleaning, Quorum recommended, tag that instantly dates it as one of his earliest pieces. The Ossie collector will instantly recognize just how important this dress is - all version of this dress are just later renditions of this one! Excellent condition.

Shoulders: no defined seams
Sleeves: approx 28" long but will shorten when cuffs are done up
Bust: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: open and defined by the attached tie
Hips: open
Bodice: approx 12" from neck to empire waist seam
Skirt: 41" from empire waist to hem

Unlined and slips over the head to wear and has satin backed ties at the waist. Each cuff has has two fabric covered buttons at the wrist. The size is variable because of the loose flowing cut and undefined seams. It is on a size 4ish mannequin but would also easily fit a 8-10 and even larger is you are not too full through the shoulders and bust.

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML

Item# DD944

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival