Circa 1960–1965

England

A Norman Hartnell ball gown without a label, in gold and cream silk satin, accompanied by its tie-belt and a long matching scarf. The fitted, sleeveless bodice, with a boat neckline and zip at the back, is entirely embroidered with tubular glass beads and sequins on cream satin, forming interlocking vermicular roses. The skirt is full-length, gathered into wide box pleats at the waist. Taffeta petticoat in matching colour and cream silk pongee lining on the bodice. Beautiful couture finish. From the wardrobe of the Duchess of Fragnito. A few micro-scratches on the gold satin, very difficult to spot, the only flaw to note. No holes or stains. Overall in Very good condition in terms of colour and preservation.

Dimensions: Equivalent to a French size 38. Length 122 cm, shoulders 40 cm, waist 70 cm, bust 95 cm.

Sir Norman Hartnell (1901–1979) was the dressmaker to queens and stars, best known as the dressmaker to Queen Elizabeth II. He was the leading figure in London haute couture during the interwar period, gaining international renown as the dressmaker to the British royal family, including the design of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation gown. In 1923, Hartnell opened his first fashion house at 10 Bruton Street, Mayfair. He designed evening gowns for high society women – those wealthy ladies who regularly attended social events such as balls and receptions. As his reputation grew, so did his client list. He was much sought after by numerous icons of the stage and screen, such as West End actress Evelyn Lane and film star Marlene Dietrich. All of Hartnell’s designs had a theatrical flair. The dresses were studded with sequins, pearls and rhinestones, and featured stiff, cage-like petticoats known as crinolines.