1970s James Galanos Couture Yellow Silk Black Dot Print Draped Dress

If the quality of a dress can be judged on its ability to transcend the decades, then this couture James Galanos from 1973 is a masterpiece. Its brilliance lies in its color—a sunshine yellow that soaks up the silk chiffon and creates a mouthwatering canvas for an array of gorgeous details.

The smartest among them are mini black polka dots, which are echoed in the clear Lucite and black ball buttons. Also stunning are the pleats at the front, which open to reveal a slit and loads of movement when the wearer is in motion. Nancy Reagan once remarked that you could wear Galanos’ clothes “inside out, they are so beautifully made.” This column silhouette lives up to her praise and then some.

Measurements:

Size estimate: Extra Small to Small

Shoulders: 15 inches

Sleeve length: 23 inches

Bust: 35 inches

Waist: 27 inches

Hips: 35 inches

Length: 58 inches

This vintage couture James Galanos is in excellent condition. It bears a hand-written label displaying the date 6/25/73 and the original client’s name. Note that one of the buttons on the left cuff is missing its black center. The shirtdress silhouette is tailored from black polka-dotted yellow silk chiffon. It is fully lined in sheer yellow silk chiffon. The spread collar tops off a center-front placket that opens with six clear Lucite buttons decorated at their centers with black plastic balls.

The center front continues into the skirt, where it is closed from the waist to the knees with handset and hand-covered fabric snaps. Pleats on either side of the slit drape down the front. The long sleeves end in barrel cuffs that are also closed with a pair of buttons. This dress has been professionally dry-cleaned and pressed. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.