Vintage 1940s Evening Gown by Bianca Gusmaroli Canadian Couturier - Size S
$750.00
Brand Poppy's Vintage Clothing
A 1940s evening gown, this is a rare piece by Bianca Gusmaroli, a Canadian couturier. There are probably not too many examples of Bianca Gusmaroli's work that have managed to survive, so this is really a collector's piece, deserving of museum display.
The gown is made of champagne gold colored silk in an off-the-shoulder style. It has a sweetheart neckline, with the right side crossing over the left front, the separation accented down the line with mustard tan colored velvet ribboning. The interior of the skirt of the dress is lined in pellon and the hips are bolstered with tulle and wire. The dress does up the back with a fine toothed metal zipper. The dress is, of course, entirely hand sewn and finished.
Color: Champagne gold
Material: Silk
Sizing: This dress is quite small, especially in the waist. Although this is primarily meant to be a collector's piece, here are the measurements for fit:
Bust: 35"-36" around, taken at the arm openings
Waist: 23"-24" around
Hips: Full
Length: 55"
It is in very good condition with the exception of some soiling/marking primarily towards the bottom of the skirt, most near the hemline - please note that the overall darkness towards the bottom of the dress is due to lighting/reflection and not the marking that I have mentioned. I have not tried to have this cleaned, as this really needs to be handled by a professional, preferably a conservator.
Some information about the couturier: Bianca Gusmaroli from Montreal was one of a few Canadian couturiers, along with Marie-Paule Nolin, Jean-Raoul Fouré, Colpron d'Anjou, Marie-France de Paris and France Davies who were members of the Association of Canadian Couturiers. Subsequent to WWII, the Parisian fashion houses were in disarray due to the devastation caused by the war. Canadian couture found a more willing public due to diminished supply, but also because these couturiers offered both quality and a different perspective to the latest in fashion.
This vintage 1940s evening gown is a rare piece of Canadian fashion history and a very beautiful display piece.