This is an amazing and rare find. La Mendola is one of my favorite designers - I think they were amongst the best at what they did - bright, vibrant silk jersey and silk chiffon pieces that catered to the jet set and the celebrity chic - the duo behind the label where designing in Rome for girls like Elizabeth Taylor and Rita Hayworth that were buying! The shop closed in 1974 so this us a rare glimpse into the day to day business of their world. Pat, the original dresses owner, lived in Belgium at the time with her husband who was stationed there. All the letters and eventually the dress itself were sent through the embassy - apparently it saved postage, time and cost to do it that way at the time! With the dress comes the the correspondence - first the letter she sends to them inquiring after having a dress made after seeing the one her sister had. She asks for samples, cost and timing. Micheal himself responds and includes samples (!) all of which are named. She chooses her design and sends her measurements and cheque and the final letter is the bill of sale. The samples with their original labels are included as are two envelopes. It is absolutely a treasure to have a pieces so well documented and a letter form the main designer himself. The dress itself is a stunning, very wearable sized silk jersey beauty in a vivid and gorgeous green print named "Francolino". It has a simple cut with an undefined waist and long sleeves. The original tie belt with its stone and brass detailed finishes is also present. The dress is in excellent condition and appears to be worn very little. Everything is clearly dated and all documentation is in excellent condition. A really rare and special glimpse into history, this is an amazing treasure that is of museum quality and extremely rare.

Sleeves: 23"
Shoulder: 15"
Bust: 17-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 45" from neck to hem

Unlined and closes with a very fine back, hand set painted metal zipper. The tie belt is original and has brass and stone end detailing. The letters are typewritten and original and the samples have their original stickers identifying the fabric names!

The photo is of Pat the original owner and is believed to have been taken a few years after the purchase of the dress. The family has promised to send a photo of Pat in the dress if one can be found and it will be sent to the buyer as well!

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD1082

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