I highly suspect that this is an early Bill Blass design. It has that feel and look of his early work. He joined the maurice label in 1958 and there was a short time where the label was still being produced without his name on it. I beleiev that this is from that time. In any case it is a startingly beautiul dress that is exquisitely constrcuted and unusual as well . It retains only its Maurice Retner Original label and is made of a beautiful rich silk satin that has been custom screened with a blue floral print that has a soft romantic feel. Deep olive leaves are mixed into the pattern and the effect against the black is beautiful. The neckline is cut square with capped high sleeves and a simple fitted bodice. The skirt is actually quite fitted but has a swagged and draped overlay that are deceptive to the underlying shape. From a flat discreet bow at one side swaths of fabric drape down each side of the skirt to create the illusion of fullness. In the back this is gathered at the center beck hem in a seond bow. It is refined glamour mixed with the touch of the avant garde and very beautiful!† Excellent condition!
Bust: 17.5î flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5î flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19î flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 44" from shoulder to hem
Fully lined in a fine black tissue silk and closes with a back painted metal zipper. Hand finishes and beautiful construction. There is the very slightest of wear to the fold along the bust. It is stable and does not deter so has been left - please super size the close up photo of the bust to see. It was cleaned and that caused no further issues so it should be fine for quite a while still!
Modern Sizing equivalent: SML (6-8)
Item# E454
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival