Absolutely gorgeous evening gown in excellent condition, by Victor Costa for Neiman Marcus. Original owner stored it   in her home since it was purchased new in the late 70s.

The straight necklines front and back are set off by the puffed sleeves that sit just at the edge of the shoulders of the velvet bodice.   The bodice ends asymmetrical waistline. The bodice has 2 stays front, and 2 in the back plus lighter stay near the seams under the arms, beginning a little below the sleeve. The back has a 20" zipper that disappears into the top of the skirt. Sleeves have a 1.5" slit at the bottom ....see picture. The bodice and sleeves are fully lined.

The royal purple draped skirt is a master of design construction, and is drawn up on the side into a folded flap. Under the flap is the triple hooked opening that allows a perfect fit once the dress is on, the skirt flowing over the hips for a beautiful, smooth fit.

The skirt has 5 layers of fabric, counting the stiff organza that is sewn as a backing onto the purple satin. Then a much stiffer fabric to keep the shape of the skirt that is helped by the next layer of crinoline net. Finally the lining that extends down from the bodice, so the scratchy stuff never touches you. And look at all the fabric that is added to the side to complete the drawn up skirt illusion!  Whew!

The size on the tag is 6, however, designer dresses always were larger than a regular size, so we wore a 6 instead of an 8, with which the measurements are consistent.

Measurements taken flat:

Pit to pit: 18"

Waist: 15"

Hips: 20"

Length from shoulder: 60"

Note: the armholes may have been professionally altered to add the minimal stays that are part of the bodice, under the arms. I mention this because the seam at the bottom of the armholes is visible, not encased/covered as would be expected.