1950s Adele Simpson Printed Silk Sheath Dress with Matching Fringed Shawl/Sash

This vintage 1950s Adele Simpson sheath dress is patterned with an abstract giraffe print on silk. Circa 1953, it comes with a matching fringed shawl, a signature of Adele Simpson's from this era, which can be styled a number of ways— around the neck as a scarf, around the shoulders as a shawl, around the waist as a sash belt— see below primary source images to get an idea! The shawl has an opening on one end (like the eye of a needle) to pull the end through and easily create these looks, ensuring it stays in place. Active from the 1920s to the 1980s, Adele Simpson was the pinnacle of the New York fashion industry for much of the 20th century, and this dress is a testament to her legacy. It has a beautiful cut, which is classic 1950s: a defined waist, with a bodice that is more blousy, slight cap-sleeves with ruching, and a wide V-neck. The skirt is cut relatively straight but has a deep inverted pleat down the center; darts at the hips keep is somewhat fitted. It also has an amazing kick pleat detailing at the bottom back.  

Measurements: Shown clipped on a size X-Small to simulate proper fit. As it is, this will best fit a size Large (possibly Medium); note that the seams were at one point let out, and if you look closely you can see the original seam line. If you'd like to make it smaller, you could very easily do so by following these original seam lines (they are not visible  unless you're looking carefully so it doesn't distract from the overall look when worn). This would take the waist in by a total of 2.5" to give you an idea.

Chest: 39" (some leeway)
Waist: 30.5-31"
Length: 45.5" from shoulder to hem

Good vintage condition overall, with some signs of wear. There is some minor discoloration (faint watermarks) which really blend in with the pattern, as well as some repairs to the fabric, which are near the hem. In all cases, any slight imperfection disappears into the pattern and is not noticeable when worn (especially due to placement) and does not detract from the overall beauty of the dress, which presents beautifully. With any questions about the specific condition or size, please email shop@verybreezy.com for additional photos or measurements, as all sales are final.

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model Dovima wearing an Adele Simpson sparkling printed silk organza sheath with floating back panels, photographed by Richard Avedon for Harper's Bazaar, December 1955

Adele Simpson dress circa 1950s

Jean Patchett wearing an Adele Simpson orange Moygashel linen sheath worn with yellow jersey fringed scarf, photographed by Louise Dahl-Wolfe in Spain for Harper's Bazaar June 1953