1930s Black and White Hostess Gown

This floor-length evening dress is fashioned from black silk crepe faille with ivory crepe trim. At approximately 62 inches in length, this elegant dress is presumed to date from around the 1930s. Most notable about this dress is its graceful drape, which is enhanced by the smooth crepe material.

The elongated belt measures 3 inches in width, 93 inches in length and ties at the natural waist, with the ends hanging down the front. While both pieces are composed of the silk crepe material, half of the tie is ivory while the other half is black. The elongated V-neckline comes to a close at about 3 inches above the waist. The left side of the V-neckline overlaps the right side above the waist, and extends beyond the waistline to the knee area where it is seamed close. The waistline is approximately 27 inches.

Due to the simplicity of line and the front overlap of the dress, the garment takes on the look of a lingerie-type robe. However, the 18-inch stitching of the overlap from the waist to the knee suggests a modesty necessitated by a more public setting.

The sleeves consist of two layers of contrasting fabric colors and are arranged in a circular ruffle. Another unique aspect of the design is the fact that the shoulder seam rests not on the natural shoulder line but rather 2 inches below, where the circular ruffles begin. Apart from the sleeves, the main part of the dress is constructed from one layer of black silk crepe with no interior lining.

Project by Julie Anastos
Spring, 1998