Sybil Connolly Couture Green Pleated Linen Dress, 1960s

Known as the Dior of Dublin, couturier Sybil Connolly is revered for her high caliber designs and artisanal technique. A raving success since her first fashion show in 1953 which landed her the cover of Life magazine, Connolly can easily be said to have put Ireland on the map in the world of fashion in more ways than one.

By incorporating authentic Irish linens and wools alongside her signature hand-pleating technique that frequently required around nine-yards of fabric, Connolly offered truly unparalleled garments that have earned her numerous spreads in Vogue and was even worn by Jackie Kennedy in her White House portrait. As a testament to her influence, Connolly’s work was exhibited as recently as 2018 at the Hunt Museum in Ireland.

Done in a stunning chartreuse linen, this 1960s gown boasts innumerable horizontal pleats that give this dress a serene, natural texture. The bodice has a classic ballet neckline and is exquisitely tailored. From the waist, the skirt has a gentle bell silhouette and ripples down to the ankle.

On the back, a modest V-neckline is complimented by princess lines that shape the dress to the body. Larger pleats lend an additional flair and volume to the skirt. Charming and sophisticated, this gown makes for an astounding evening option that can easily stand alone or paired with gloves and light accessories for a nostalgic 60s look. This dress is also part of the permanent collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Size estimate: Small

Bust: 34 -36 inches

Waist: 27 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 57 inches

Inside, the dress features a built-in boned waist-stay for additional shaping and support. The bodice is lined in olive green silk while the skirt is lined in a pale green dupioni silk. This dress closes on the side with a painted metal zip and hand-set snaps.

In excellent condition, this dress 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.

Reference Photos: (1) Sybil Connolly Dress 1960s from The Met Collection Online. (2) Portrait of Jacqueline Kennedy by Aaron A. Shikler. Oil on canvas