Slink into the room in the chicest, most dashing, and so very 1930s, black silk velvet gown. The perfect marriage of masculine and feminine swank attire à la Dietrich, Anna Mae Wong, Swanson, and Josephine Baker. Build with the perfect voluptuous, but streamlined, shape. They didn’t stop at the silhouette either, created in a sumptuous ink black silk velvet and an equally inky heavy satin, the contrasting sheen on the bodice with the two fabrics is quite the alluring effect. And there’s MORE, the sleeves keep on giving! Exaggerated ruched velvet shoulders like little black clouds round out the bodice shape, the back of the collar mimics the same ruching. The arms are encased in the contrasting satin, with velvet cuffs to match. This velvet is so plush and soft, you will be smacking your own hands away. Bodice features the contrasting satin finished with a tuxedo-dickie like fashion, complete with faux matching buttons. Keyhole top detail, for a tiny peep show, closes with a hook and eye closure at the very top and pin tucked detail that runs under the pointed and generous collar. Snap closures at the wrists for a perfect sleeve fit. Snap and hook closures at the side. The perfect 1930s black silk velvet gown.

Referring to “Le Smoking” created in 1966 by couturier Yves Saint Laurent, which is arguably the most famous tuxedo suit designed for women. Taking different parts from both men’s suits and women’s clothing, he created a first in fashion. The collar and shape of the tuxedo was more feminine, the waistline slimmer to show more body shape, and the pants adjusted to elongate the legs. It pioneered androgynous styles, influenced pop culture, and was seen as empowering by giving women the option of wearing their own version of what was traditionally an article of clothing worn predominantly by men. As Saint Laurent said “Chanel freed women, and I empowered them.”

This piece is so 1930s elegant, it really could get away with being at a variety of places. From a special event one night to grandma’s family dinner gathering, it will not fail you for any occasion. If you’re in a dramatic mood throw on a matching black velvet cape, or even better, a velvet cape in a bright, bold color for contrast.  Although not traditionally done with a dress like this, flats are not impossible if you were to want to attend a casual dinner.  

Bust – 34-35 inches
Waist – 27 inches
Hips – 36-37 inches
Length – 52 inches

Excellent, very wearable, condition. The velvet is still plush and has very minimal wear.

There are some very minor wear spots in the skirt that could not be captured in photos. Satin is strong and uniform in color. Minor small discoloration on the left sleeve by the cuff, slightly lighter than the rest of the sleeve, but could not be captured in photos.

All wear flaws are minor and are not visible when worn. The dress has one visible flaw, which is a very old repair done to the area just at the crease of the armpit on the left side.

There is a patch sewn in to cover what might have been a tear at some point. Professionally patched using the same exact satin and velvet as the rest of the dress, not noticeable when worn however it is noticeable if one is looking for details and flaws.

Closures are all intact and solid, ready for use.

Our vintage clothing pieces are true antiques, not modern reproductions or facsimiles.  As such, unless specifically stated that they are “new old stock”, each piece should be considered a previously worn treasure that will show varying levels of use and potential condition issues.  Please read every section of our vintage clothing product pages to best understand exactly what you are purchasing before placing your order. All vintage clothing is sold “as is” with no warranty and all vintage clothing sales are final. Please reach out before you purchase if you have any questions about a specific piece and one of our knowledgeable customer support agents will be glad to assist you.

Finding undiscovered troves of brand new vintage clothing is exceptionally rare, so each item in our vintage shop is a unique listing with a first-come, first-served setup. We cannot hold or reserve items and once they have sold, it is unlikely that we will ever get another in our store again. If you see something you love, make sure to buy it or it might not be here on your next visit.