STUNNING ALFRED SHAHEEN HAWAIIAN sarong stole sun dress! GREAT ACCENT DETAILS on this FABULOUS dress! Ruched sides with good strong elastic, centre boned cup bullet style shelf bustline with accenting folded over material. Bustline feels like its reinforced and lined with the same material as the dress. Metal zipper works well, and hook and eye catch at the top of the zipper closes well. Sarong styling across the front with side ties. Detachable stole with three buttons on inside bustline. Halter straps are sewn in but can be folded down inside the dress for a strapless look. Sweatheart neckline. There are hanging straps to hang the dress. The hemline appears hand stitched with brown ribbon finish (sign of exceptional quality in a dress).
The material pattern is of Hawaiian village huts, tikis and palm trees. The pattern is accented with a metallic gold type print. Alfred Shaheen was known for using 100% cotton hand printed material. The camera flash makes the photo color a bit light rusty instead of earth-toned browns and beiges. The color of the garment is best reflected in the bottom photo.
There does not appear to be noticeable wear, and the ruching elastic is good and firm. FANTASTIC versatile dress, can be worn with or without straps, or with or without stole. SENSATIONAL DESIGN! I am guessing it is from the 1950's but I can't be sure. Accessories not included.
Measurements below:
Size - not listed on label, Bust - 31" unstretched - 38" stretched, Sides are 3" section ruched elastic.
Hip - 40", Waist - 26" measured at sarong tie, Length armpit to bottom hem - 35".
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