50s Cocktail Dress Vintage Jerry Parnis Milgrim Illusion Lace Small to Medium VFG

This gorgeous 1950s designer vintage cocktail dress is so alluring, covered up while suggesting a wilder side! The bodice has cap sleeves and is fitted, with underbust seaming that hugs the waist before flaring into a seven gore skirt. The bodice has an outer layer of illusion lace, very light and delicate looking, in an unusual pattern that reminds me of graceful fronds. Underneath, a combination of black and Caucasian nude, cut in such a way as to suggest a strapless bodice. The dress is shown with a crinoline underneath for inspiration - the crinoline is not included with purchase.

SIZE: No size label

FABRIC/COLORS: Lightweight black silk taffeta, black lace in a delicate frond weave backed with pale pink netting, and peachy pink taffeta under the lace and net. The dress is partially lined in black voile.

TAGS: Jerry Parnis, New York. The second label says Milgrim, a specialty fashion store in New York, owned by Sally Milgrim, who was the head designer.

CLOSURES: The dress closes with a metal zipper down the center back. The illusion lace section has a small button & loop at the neck and two sets of hooks & eyes below.

CONDITION: There is a small area on the right rear shoulder with a tiny hole in the black lace - see closeup. The netting underneath is intact - I think a former owner may have used an evening bag with a shoulder strap that rubbed a bit there. No other issues noted.