Vintage 1970s Pelilla 100% Metallic Maxi Dress Hand Printed Italy

A striking vintage Pelilla maxi dress, made in Italy and fashioned from an exceptionally sheer, shimmering metallic fabric. The original label reads “Printed by Hand / Pelilla / Made in Italy.”

The dress has a long, slender silhouette with a V-neckline, fitted body, long sleeves and deep fitted cuffs. The lightweight metallic knit is almost transparent and catches the light beautifully, giving the entire dress a silvery, subtly iridescent shimmer.

The hand-printed design is particularly interesting. The upper portion features an all-over geometric diamond or argyle-inspired pattern in muted shades of charcoal, silver, grey and soft mauve. Toward the lower skirt, the regular diamond pattern gradually dissolves into elongated abstract geometric forms before fading into the darker metallic border at the hem.

The V-neckline and cuffs are finished in a denser dark metallic knit, complementing the darker hem. The dress closes at the back with a long zipper.

The original content label reads “100% Metallic.” The precise composition or construction represented by this unusual fibre designation is uncertain, so we have described it exactly as it appears on the manufacturer's label. The fabric is exceptionally lightweight, fluid and sheer, with some give/stretch. A slip, bodysuit or other undergarment would be required for conventional wear.

The combination of Italian manufacture, hand printing, metallic textile and dramatic floor-length silhouette makes this an unusual example of 1970s Italian evening fashion.

Label: Pelilla – Printed by Hand – Made in Italy
Content: Labelled 100% Metallic
Colour: Charcoal, silver, grey and muted mauve
Closure: Back zipper
Condition: [add condition assessment]

Sizing

Although tagged a vintage size 8, vintage sizing differs considerably from modern sizing. Based on the measurements and the degree of give in the fabric, this would probably best suit a modern Small, depending on desired fit. Please refer to the measurements below.

Measurements: Shoulders 13 1/2" across seam to seam; bust 33"; waist 27"; hips 36"; sleeve 24" from shoulder / 19" inseam; overall length 57".

A wonderfully dramatic dress that should be stunning on the right wearer and is certain to attract attention.

Please note: The AI model image showing the dress being worn is included for illustrative purposes only. Please refer to the other photographs for an accurate real-world representation of the garment.