Prom Dress - 1948

College deb Joan wears a strapless floral gown to a formal dance with her sailor.  The dress by Barbara is fashioned of sheer rayon mousseline and has a wide taffeta waistband with a bow at the back.  Gown sold for $25 in 1948 (about $235 in today's dollar.)  See where the 70s got some of its ideas?

James Galanos Dress - 1965

The work of Galanos is as close to true haute couture as you can get in a ready-to-wear garment. Each piece is hand finished with the finest of details and intricate construction.  This evening gown and matching coat ensemble from 1965 is made from sheer tiger stripe silk chiffon.  The coat closes at the back neck and waist (yes, the back!) with tiny cord ties.  Worn with great panache by model Donyale Luna.

Jerry Parnis Dress - 1959

Jerry Parnis is the less well known sister of Mollie Parnis.  This party dress from 1959 is fashioned of sheer white silk organza wtih Schiffli embroidery.  The tiny spaghetti straps are almost not there.  So very pretty and feminine!  Sold in 1959 for $110 (about $856 in today's dollar.)

Nelly Don Dress - 1961

The Nelly Don Company was known from the 1930s through the 70s for it's stylish, yet budget minded dresses.  This sheer cotton blend dress from 1961 came in misses and half sizes.  Made even more special with the addition of a bright pink hat, don't you think?  Sold in 1961 for $18.00 (about $136.00 in today's dollar.)

Harvey Berin Dress - 1955

Delicious, no?  This incredible dress was designed by Karen Stark for Harvey Berin.  The dress is pieced together from black lace and pin-tucked black silk chiffon.  It is lined in a light colored silk, probably pink or beige.  The work that went into this beauty is simply astounding!

New at Couture Allure - Vintage Party Dresses and Hats

New at Couture Allure this week are some lovely vintage party dresses and more hats from Mrs. Plankenhorn!  Be sure to check our What's New page to see all the latest items!

1950s cream lace with pink lining dress, perfect for a wedding or prom!

1980s does 50s white taffeta party dress.

1950s silk roses dress.

1960s dress with floating drapes.

1960s pink roses hat.

1940s hat with elaborate silk ribbons.

Weekend Eye Candy - Pierre Cardin Diffusion, 1975

Two evening gowns from Pierre Cardin's Diffusion line for spring 1975.  Both gowns are made of brightly colored silks and, while vastly different, I love them both.  How about you?