In 1979 LaVetta was featured in Ebony magazine () and in that article she says "We're known for the dramatic drop dead entrance". Dresses cost upwards to $10,000 when they were produced, which was a remarkable price tag in 1979. At the time she was "the only black person designing and marketing her own line" according to that Ebony article. She traveled to Italy and the Orient for silks twice and year and you can see that Eastern influence here on this stunning piece. It is entirely hand made and hand pieced together. The sleeves are cut wide and full, giving a nod to the kimono sleeve. Both the back and the front plunge and it is cut so that the weight of the lower skirts keep it perfectly in place despite the lowness of the cut. The skirt is magnificent and literally has a full 360 degree sweep. This gives it incredible volume and movement. The silk itself is incredibly light and fine - a very high grade. The print and the way it is mixed is magnificent. Each of these dresses was entirely hand made and each is entirely unique, with no two having the same mix of silk squares and patterns and how those squares are laid out. A wonderful unique and rare piece that is highly collected by a great African American couturier. Excellent, looks to be unworn condition

The top portion is unlined and the skirt has an inner lining of a lingerie weight stretch nylon. No closures - slip over the head to wear. The caftan/kimono like cut will fit a variety of sizes

Sleeves: approx 24"
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: variable as there are no defined side seams
Empire waist: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam of the inner skirt lining
Bodice: 11" from neck to mid waist
Skirt: 47" from mid waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent:SML-LRG

Item# DD2000

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.