Henry Rosenfeld Dress - 1955

Dress it up, dress it down, there's nothing like the versatility of a little black dress.  This one by Henry Rosenfeld is fashioned of a cotton knit.  Shown here belted and blousoned, you could also wear this as a straight column with completely different accessories. 

I know it is difficult to see, but the model is wearing a multi-strand pearl necklace that is tucked inside the square neckline.  I really like that idea.....a lot.  The dress sold for $17 in 1955, equivalent to about $148 in today's dollar.  I can assure you, this dress was far superior in fabric and construction that anything you can buy for the same amount today.  Choose vintage!

Photo by Irving Penn for Vogue

The Details Make the Dress, 1951

One of the things I love about vintage dresses is the amount of work that goes into the details.  Case in point, this little black dress by David Marcus from 1951.  A lot of effort went into getting that collar just right so it frames the face and neck in such a beguiling manner.  The sleeve is not just a straight thing that hangs there.  It is cut with a slight bell shape and gathered into a cuff at the elbow.  The details are interesting enough that just a simple pair of earrings are all you need.

Photo by Clifford Coffin for Vogue.

How to Wear a Little Black Dress

Take a simple black sheath (you DO own one, don't you?), add a belt and pearls.  Classic yes, but still a bit safe.  Now jazz your look up with a fabulous wide brimmed hat.  That's how you wear a Little Black Dress!  Hat by Mr. John, 1962.

LAST CALL FOR WINNERS!  I still have not heard from 3 of the winners of the book "Fashion: The Definitive History of Costume and Style" from last week's giveaway.  If you entered the contest, please be sure to check your email as I need to get your address to the PR firm that is sending the books.  If I don't hear from you today, I will have to choose different winners.

Vintage Dresses

Every gal needs a little black dress in her closet, and we've got a fabulous selection of vintage dresses in black at Couture Allure! The best thing about a basic black sheath is the endless way you can accessorize it to suit your mood.

Little black dresses are great for daytime.


1950s embroidered rayon day dress - $75.00.

1950s cotton voile full skirted dress with slip - $95.00.

But it's evening when little black dresses really work their magic.

1960s sequined sheath by Gene Shelly - $250.00

1960s illusion lace cocktail dress - $75.00.

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