Jeunesse: A covert and romanticized saga...
This is an original Jeunesse, silk blend cocktail gown designed by George Halley. He began working under this specific fashion house with his (this) label in the mid-1950s, and the dress most likely came about between 1960 and 1965. Halley had worked his way up to the top and was called the "master of draping" by Charles James, of Lord and Taylor. He then began working for the fashion house owned by Richard and Sydney Browner-Jeunesse, where this piece would call home. Here, Halley was able to create his own designs with his name included on the ticketing. To find out more about Halley's fashionable history visit here: vintagefashionguild: George Halley.
The fashion innovations at the time were all about the new silhouette. Before the 1960s, dresses were usually cinched at the waist and envied a full skirt just skimming the mid to lower calf. These newer shift dresses were a respectful nod at the 1920s flapper, but had a more subtle femininity about them. For instance, this dress still exudes sex appeal with the cut out back, but the bow and ornate beading adds just enough detail to let the dress speak for itself. The bold powder blue is a color that was carried on into the late 1960s and early 1970s. The shift shape is also making a comeback into today's trends, including designers like Valentino, Michael Kors, and Louis Vuitton placing them in their spring collections from the past year and the line to come.
We are so grateful to be able to showcase amazing vintage pieces such as this one at Mosaic. We price to sell these beauties, but still want to give them the credit they deserve. The stitching is impeccable and the lines and unique details are hard to come by these days. Stop in and take a look at this dress and other garments we are excited about. Possibly pair this garment with some Maryjane's and chandelier earrings to keep it classically 1960s, or take it more modern with a nice pump and a pastel scarf tied around the waist or neck.
Enjoy!
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