Vintage Bill Blass Black Velvet Gold Metallic Halter Strapless Evening Dress

Before there was Halston, there was Bill Blass as the epitome of American style. Blass’ rise around the 1940s led him to be one of the most prominent women’s designers for multiple brands such as Anne Klein and Anna Miller. Blass’ reputation and keen eye for fit and detail led him to be in high demand upon acquiring his own company in the late 1960s.

Presumably from the late 80s/early 90s, this Blass evening dress is done in a gold lamé and silk blend and a black velvet bodice for a glamorous and sophisticated color combination. With two lengths of gold fabric gathered into the waist, the bodice of this dress can be styled in various ways. It can be styled in a sportier option as a halter framing the black velvet at the bust or it can be worn as an elegant strapless.

The dress has an overall columnar silhouette with slight definition at the waist. Centre front gathers provide additional dimension and as statuesque feel to the dress. This two-in-one dress is an excellent evening wardrobe addition that is both easy to wear and stunning to see.

Measurements:

Bust: 34 inches

Waist: 24 inches

Hips: 34.5 inches

Length: 52 inches measured from top velvet front panel to bottom

Because of the open back, an elastic strap runs across to secure it in place. This strap can easily be covered when styled as the strapless option. The skirt of the dress closes at centre back with a waistband snap and a concealed zip. At the hem, a slit is placed for ease of motion.

The velvet bodice is lined in a black silky rayon while the remainder of the dress is unlined. In very good condition, there are some signs of wear to the gold lamé fabric. 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.