Jacques Heim Demi Couture 1950s New Look Black Dress

This striking 1950s New-Look style evening gown by Jacques Heim demonstrates some impeccable tailoring skills. The dress is of heavy starched black cotton and styled to flatter a classic hourglass silhouette. The wide angled straps graduate seamlessly into a gentle décolletage neckline with a skilful fold in the fabric over the centre of the bust bringing each breast to a point. A curved seam below the line of the bust draws the lower half of the bodice in neatly towards the waist, which details a neat bow to the right in juxtaposition to a matching bow at the base of the left shoulder strap. The full skirt is lined with a multi-tired Spanish style sateen petticoat that is not visible when worn and has a crinoline effect. The overlay is closely lined in a layer of starched fabric to ensure the line of the shirt remains crisp. Two folds of fabric are sewn into the skirt, crossing over the naval and widening at an A line towards the hem. There is a central zip fastening at the reverse. This magnificent piece is in excellent condition and would best suit US size 0-2 UK size 6.

Jacques Heim was a Parisian designer specialising in furs and couture for women and opened his own couture house in the 1930s. As well as starting a chain of sportswear boutiques, he was renowned for his beachwear and was one of the first designers of the two-piece bikini called the Atome (French for 'atom').

• BUST
  34 in. (86.36 cm)
• WAIST
  24 in. (60.96 cm)
• HIP
  38 in. (96.52 cm)
• LENGTH
  38 in. (96.52 cm)