Original 1940s 40s Vintage Red Crepe Novelty Print Dress With Pleats And Decorative Grape Design Buttons

This wonderful dress was made in the 1940s from a crepe fabric decorated with raspberries and cherries on the plant. The garment has a v-neckline framed with parallel pleats extending from the shoulder to the bodice. These pleats end at a flattering diamond shaped yolk at the bust. The shoulders have small flattering gathers in classic early 1940s style. One side of the collar is folded at the back while the other side is collarless, which may be a period alteration to the original design but adds an interesting detail. Pleats are also used vertically to highlight the bodice and bottom half of the skirt. A small peplum extends from the waist to the hip and both the top of the bodice and the peplum are decorated with fabric covered buttons arranged in the shape of a bunch of grapes. The same fabric covered buttons are used to fasten the back of the dress. Underneath the button fastening, is a concealed metal zipper and hook closure to the skirt. Inside, the dress is unlined and without maker’s labels.

Bust: 36”

Waist: 28”

Hips: 36” (tight 38”)

Length: 42 1/2” 

Shoulders: 15 1/2 seam to seam 

The dress is in good condition, however there is some oxidation to the buttons as well as some wear to the fabric of the top most buttons. There is also bobbling in places and evidence that there is colour transfer following washing and a seam split to the underarm as pictured. 

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