Vintage Tadashi Shoji Bodycon Sheath Evening Gown 1980s Black Jersey Dress Small

This is a pre-owned vintage 80s evening gown or long dress made in a “body conscious” sheath style by renowned designer Tadashi Shoji.  Tadashi Shoji studied art in Japan, moving to Los Angeles in 1973 to study fashion design.  He apprenticed with Bill Whitten, who designed costumes for Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Neil Diamond, The Jacksons and Earth, Wind and Fire.  He launched his own line in 1982 and has gained a reputation for creating sophisticated figure-flattering clothing.

This dress is cut to accentuate the body.  It has a crossover bodice, wide V shaped neckline, long sleeves, defined waistline, draping on the left hip, and tapers to the hemline.  It has stays on either side of the bodice, and does up the back with a long nylon zipper.  It came from the original owner with a belt that has a rhinestone buckle, and although I don’t believe it to be original to the dress, I will include it.  The dress is unlined. 

Age: 1980s

Label: Tadashi.  This is an earlier label used by Tadashi

Color: Black

Material: Stretchy jersey consisting of 82% Rayon / 10% Nylon / 8% Lycra.  Made in U.S.A. No hot iron, steam only

Sizing: Size small is indicated on the label, but please rely on the following measurements for fit, noting that good fit would be somewhere between the unstretched and the stretched measurements:

Shoulders:  17” across

Sleeves:  23” long

Bust: 33” unstretched, stretches out to 36”

Waist: 24” unstretched, stretches out to 30”

Hips:  36” unstretched, stretches out to 38”

Length: 60”

Condition: It is in very good condition with no wear, tear, stains or odors.  This was well cared for over the years and looks like it saw little use.  the belt, however, has some signs of wear, but nothing pronounced.

This is a fabulous example of earlier Tadashi design - striking form and fit, sure to be noticed if you have an entrance to make!