This is a vintage 1950s ball gown made of black silk taffeta.  The skirt is made in two layers, the top, shorter layer being pleated and turned up at the bottom to form a “bubble” or “balloon” shape, a technique used by haute couture houses, specifically Balenciaga.  It is very well made, but I think that it was someone’s attempt at a copy.  Still, beautifully made, I’m just not sure about the proportion of the bottom of the skirt.  There is no label in this dress, but it is of obvious quality, fully lined in “pellon”, a stiffener used to aid in giving a dress structure - again, something that one would see in a high end dress.  In addition, the dress is beautifully lined through the bodice.  The dress is sleeveless, with shoulder cap straps, finely pleated bust and sweetheart neckline.  The back has a scoop top line and the waist is defined.  It closes with a metal zipper at the side and the bust has stays for support.   

Label: As mentioned, none.  Any label that was once there is missing, but, as mentioned, this is a very good quality dress.

Sizing: No size is indicated, and although this should fit an medium size, please rely on the following measurements for fit, taken from the exterior:

Bust:  37”

Waist: 28”

Hips:  38”

Overall length: 45“, measured flat

Condition: This dress is in very good condition with no wear, tear, staining, soiling or odour, but the pleating would need to be re-pressed in a number of places.  Otherwise, it looks to have seen very little use and was well stored over the last 65 or so years except for the creasing.

This is a quality silk taffeta gown - I don’t know who made it, but it’s an interesting piece!