Design Era: Early to Mid-1930s (c. 1931–1936)
Garment Description:
A romantic day or informal summer/tea dress from the 1930s, characterized by figure-flattering lines and delicate fabric manipulation. The full-length garment features a fitted bodice and a flowing skirt, likely cut on the bias to achieve its characteristic drape. This dress shows the dramatic change of the boyish, flapper, gamine silhouette of the 1920’s to the more feminine cut with big shoulders, fitted waist, and lower hemline if the 1930’s.
This dress exemplifies the 1930s style shaped by Hollywood’s Golden Age, reflecting the influence of designer Adrienne, best known for creating Joan Crawford’s signature look.
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Fabric and Color: Constructed from a light yellow (or pale daffodil) silk or high-quality rayon satin/crepe. The fabric possesses a smooth finish, enhancing the garment’s soft drape and luxurious appearance.
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Bodice: Features a fitted V-neckline. The front is embellished with extensive, finely ruched or gathered detailing that radiates from the center-front and emphasizes the bust line. The bodice is shaped to fit the natural waist.
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Sleeves: Short, voluminous puffed sleeves are set into the shoulder, created by gathering the fabric at both the armhole and the cuff.
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Skirt: The skirt is constructed of multiple vertical panels, likely using the bias-cut technique to ensure a close fit over the hips before flaring out gently towards the hem. The skirt achieves its length and fluid movement through this cut.
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Embellishment: The skirt is decorated with large, stylized appliqué elements crafted from ruched strips of the same fabric. These decorative motifs resemble large hearts or ornate ribbon flourishes, adding texture and visual interest to the lower panels.