Nina Ricci 1980s Black Wool and Silk Cocktail Dress

Fine and rare Jean Varon spider cobweb dress which can be dated to the designer's 1973 collection and featured here in the September issue of British Vogue. Fashioned in a sleek black jersey with a slight sheen, it has faceted-domed glass buttons down the front and around the wide cuff billow sleeves. It has a half-length front hidden zip for ease of access. The embroidered tulle panel on the back with applications of beads and sequins forming spiders crawling around cobwebs and has made this dress the most prized of all John Bate's designs. They rarely come up for sale; this has been in Circa's collection nearly 20 years and is notably held in several fashion museums worldwide. In fabulous vintage condition with absolutely no issues and is worthy of museum acquisition. The only thing if we're being very, very picky is that there are two tiny pin holes on the back near the right-hand seam; absolutely impossible to see when worn and only noticed when the dress was held to the light. It is best for a size UK 8 or US 4 and smaller on account of the small waist. Notes on Designer: John Bates was a highly regarded British designer who began his label Jean Varon in 1959. Famous for sheer panels, short hemlines and bare midriffs, he was one of the pioneers of the miniskirt and trousers for women...

This is a really good example of 1950s knitted formal wear with an elaborate applique floral spray pattern that features on the bodice and the lower hem of...

DOLCE GABBANA black pink rose print silk lined draped mid cocktail dress IT38 XS Reference: TGAS/D00262 Brand: Dolce Gabbana Designer: Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana Material: Vi...

Black chiffon cocktail dress with black beaded bustier. BILL BLASS EVENING for Bergdorf Goodman. Body fabric composition: 51% triacetate, 30% rayon, 19% polyester. Trim : silk. Zip...