The Oscar de La Renta boutique label first appeared in 1967 which makes this dress from one of his very earliest collections for this line. His boutique label is important as is marked the first ready-to-wear line for a Seventh Avenue designer to be launched. These early pieces have lots of hand finishes and are just stunning example of his work during these early days of his career. 

I love this dress. It is made out of a gorgeous deep brown velvet that gives it a really beautiful texture. The velvet has a flat pile and there is a bit of a vertical texture worked into it that helps add length when you have it on. It is a really stunning detail. To contrast this and give the dress a touch of a metallic feel Oscar then added a wide silver and gold metal thread panel of ribbon to follow the notched neckline. This panel of fabric runs down each side of the neckline and then circles around the collar. That same metallic fabric is used to cover the edges of the matching belt. The belt is fabulous in its own right. It is cut wide and then peaks where it meets in the middle. To close it, it has a long matching velvet tie that loops through the brass coloured grommets and then laces up as tight as you wish. The fabric of the dress is light in weight so that the dress is very easy to wear. It has long sleeves and each sleeve poufs out over the cuff. The cuffs are done in the same metallic fabric to pick up on the belt and neckline. Each is also slit down the sides so you see part of your arm. Very unusual and very chic once on. The skirt cascades to the floor gently widening out as it nears the hem. And it has pockets. It is really a gorgeous dress and very well made. Excellent condition with a minor note below.

Fully lined in a brown silky rayon. Closes with a back zipper and a hook at the top of the neck. Each cuff snaps to close. The inner back of the belt has stiffened a bit and it was stored folded. This does not effect the front at all but you see the fold lines on the back. 

Sleeves: 24"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to centre of band at waist
Skirt: 41.5" from centre of band at waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3878

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