1950s Vintage Shirtwaist Dress | Grey Brown Baroque Print | Rare Rhinestone Cufflinks | Metal Zip | Modern Size L (10/12) | Project Piece
A moody and romantic 1950s shirtwaist dress in a grey and brown baroque scroll print. Features incredibly unique original rhinestone cufflinks, rhinestone buttons, and a gathered skirt. A rare find in a modern size Large, offered in fair, wearable condition with some restoration potential.
Measurements (Taken Flat & Doubled where applicable):
Bust (Pit to Pit): 40″
Waist: 34″ (No elastic, fitted waist)
Hips: Free / Open
Length: 41″
Shoulder to Waist: Approx. 16″
Sizing: Based on measurements, this fits like a modern US Large (10/12). Please check the 34″ waist measurement against a dress you currently own to ensure a good fit.
Material: Unlabeled, likely Rayon/Acetate blend. Era: 1950s.
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More about this Item
Step back into the mid-century with this wonderfully moody 1950s shirtwaist dress. It has the silhouette of a classic housewife dress but the soul of a gothic romance novel. The fabric is a fascinating textured overlay with a baroque or filigree-style scroll print in shades of cool grey and mocha brown, giving it a depth that looks lovely in natural light.
The absolute showstopper here is the hardware. It features four rhinestone buttons on the bodice (sparkly and substantial), but even cooler are the sleeves—they are fastened with their original matching rhinestone cufflinks! It is incredibly rare to find a day dress that still has its original cufflinks intact.
The dress closes with a vintage metal side zipper. Please note, this lovely lady has lived a life and is being sold in “Fair to Good” vintage condition. She has some battle scars (detailed below) and would be a perfect project for a seamstress or someone who loves wabi-sabi vintage.
Style Tips: Because the waist is 34 inches, this is a very wearable modern size! Pair it with a wide leather cinch belt (to replace the missing original) and some t-strap heels for a classic look, or wear it with combat boots for a grunge/whimsygoth vibe.
Condition Report: This item is wearable but has noted flaws. Please review carefully:
General: There is overall fraying near the collar and cuffs, typical of this fabric type.
Seams: There is seam separation on the right armpit and on the overskirt seams; these need restitching.
Holes: A small hole is present under the left arm/sleeve area.
Hardware: The rhinestone on the very top button is missing (mostly hidden by the collar).
Accessories: The original belt is missing (loops are attached).
Measurements (Taken Flat & Doubled where applicable):
Bust (Pit to Pit): 40″
Waist: 34″ (No elastic, fitted waist)
Hips: Free / Open
Length: 41″
Shoulder to Waist: Approx. 16″
Sizing: Based on measurements, this fits like a modern US Large (10/12). Please check the 34″ waist measurement against a dress you currently own to ensure a good fit.
Material: Unlabeled, likely Rayon/Acetate blend. Era: 1950s.





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