The early little black jersey dresses that Ceil Chapman made on the late 40s and early 50s are some of the best examples of her work out there. This piece is seriously extraordinary and I hope that girl that decides to make it hers truly will love and cherish it. These arely Chapman pieces are very hard to come by and you can see the master draping techniques she employed in this piece. Made of a very early silk knit jersey the fabric is very fluid and drapes perfectly. The bodice is completely gathered in soft pleats held in place by the vertical stitching that run down the front. I love the gathered sleeves that carry the ruched feel down each arm. The looped pleating technique that create the front and back panels is incredibly beautiful and has that art deco, architectural feel to them. The panels give the dress movement and ease as you move. It does not have its Ceil Chapman label but it is absolutely a Chapman. Just a really extraordinary piece that is highly collectible and in excellent condition.

Beautifully lined in a combination of black tissue silk and a wide band of heavier cotton muslin at the hem and bodice to properly weight it and hold the proper shape. It closes with a back painted metal zipper.

Sleeves: approx. 17"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 16.5-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14.5" from neck to waist
Skirt: 28" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2218

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.