James Galanos was a genius at manipulating the finest of silks and when one finds such an exemplary example of his work like this it is a true joy. The construction on this particular Galanos dress is divine. It is made up of layers of a pretty peach colored silk chiffon anchored by a wide panel of a soft taupe anchoring the bottom hem. The silk is as light as a feather and is a difficult fabric to work with under any circumstance but Galanos took it a step further and made the entire dress into an intricate pleated construction. The silk is cut it on the bias and then it was knife pleated in long vertical lines. Even the wide cut, full sleeves have been pleated in this manner. This pleating technique give the dress an incredible movement and overall texture. The top is cut to sit loose and easy with an elastic finish at the waist. It can be worn on its own or with the wide ribbed leather belt that came with it. The skirt swirls out below that to the floor and Very feminine and very pretty. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in the same peach colored silk chiffon and closes with a two separate painted metal zippers at the back. The first closes the interior lining and the second is hidden under the pleats to close the outer layer. Each cuff has elastic. Hand finishes throughout and made to demi-couture standards. The belt shows minor wear - light scuffing here and there but is otherwise in excellent condition. I see two tiny smudges on the back shoulder mentioned for accuracy. The color has more of a pop and brightness to it in a person and the taupe panel is a softer shade in person. The photos do not do this amazing piece justice at all

Sleeves: 24"
Shoulders: 13.5"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner lining at hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from neck to waist
Skirt: 39" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2431

Reference Photos: (1) Vulkan Magazine, March 29 2016. (Photographer/Art Director: Michael Kai Young.  Fashion Director: Georgia Groom.  Hair & Makeup: Robert Weir @ Judy Inc.  Models: Erin Forster @ Elmer Olsen/Andrew Podolio @ Elite Toronto/Want Management.) / (2) Outtake from the same shoot.  /  (3-4) Spring 1973 James Galanos Couture Runway.

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