Norman Norell wool Dress Cape Ensemble, 1960s

American designer Norman Norell’s design perspective was simple but impactful. Norell found his place as a highly awarded and one of the most recognizable designers in the mid-century due to his flattering and uncomplicated styles. From the 1960s, this ensemble showcases one of Norell’s signatures. Made in a black and red puppytooth wool, this ensemble features a capelet and a matching dress.

The capelet offers a youthful feel due to its soft, rounded lines and gentle collar. The tailored seaming and light structure of the fabric allow for the capelet to fit snugly around the shoulders while keeping a well-balanced proportion around the arms.

Underneath, the dress is done in a charcoal black wool with a simple, quintessentially 1960s shirt-style silhouette with a shallow boat neck. Slightly fitted at the waist with darts, the more relaxed fit and solid color pairs well with the pattern and tailored lines of the skirt portion. Excellently balanced and tailored, this ensemble is the perfect day-to-night look that is both professional and flirty.

Size estimate: Small

Measurements:

Bust: 34 inches

Waist: 25 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 37.5 inches

Cape length: 15.5 inches

The capelet closes at the front with a series of round black buttons. On the dress, the bodice fastens at centre back with large circular covered buttons while the skirt has an interesting two-zip closure at the right and left side-back.

The capelet is fully lined while the dress is only lined at the skirt. In excellent condition, this ensemble has been professionally eco 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.