Jean Patou - 1947

This gorgeous evening gown was designed by Jean Patou in the spring of 1947.  Sparkling gold sequins cover the strapless bodice and glimmer over the pale blue tulle skirt.  A dress like this must have captured the imagination of every woman in Paris after years of war and deprivation. The color combination inspires me today.  What does the gown say to you?

Antonio Castillo for Elizabeth Arden Coat

Castillo for Elizabeth Arden coat and suit pictured for Vogue magazine, Nov. 1, 1947

I am deeply indebted to Monica D. Murgia for her in-depth research about Antonio Castillo and the few short years he worked for Elizabeth Arden.  I highly recommend you read her blog post about the collaboration between Castillo and Arden to understand how special the coat I am going to show you today is.

Antonio Castillo worked for Elizabeth Arden from October, 1945 until 1950 when he left to join the House of Lanvin.  He produced couture garments for the clientele at the Arden salon exclusively until the Fall of 1949, when his first ready-to-wear collection was produced and sold wholesale to leading department stores like Neiman Marcus and I. Magnin.

Castillo for Elizabeth Arden 1947 couture coat at Couture Allure.

It is my pleasure to present this couture coat from Castillo for Elizabeth Arden from the Fall 1947 collection.  The coat is made from navy and black striped silk ottoman and features hand finishing and couture construction throughout.  While not perfect, this is a rare and very special example of American couture and is now available at Couture Allure.

Weekend Eye Candy - Lanvin, 1947

June bride #3 is wearing a silk faille wedding gown by Jeanne Lanvin from 1947.  Look closely.  That faille is woven with polka dots!!!!!!!

Weekend Eye Candy - Christian Dior, 1947

What better way to welcome the holidays than in a red satin evening gown all tied up with a big bow?  Christian Dior, 1947.

Debutante of the Year - 1947

Do you recognize her?  It's Jacqueline Bouvier wearing a $59 off-the-rack dress in 1947.  In 6 years she would be the wife of Senator John F. Kennedy and in another 7 she would be First Lady.  Do you think she had any idea of what was to come behind that smile?

Weekend Eye Candy - Yvonne De Carlo

Actress Yvonne de Carlo in a production still from the film Scheherazade, 1947. I want that necklace!

Weekend Eye Candy - Jacques Fath 1947

By 1947, Paris couture had bounced back from the war. Jacques Fath showed this suit in his Fall 1947 collection. Brown wool crepe tailors to perfection. The flared peplum is trimmed in mink fur.