This is a lovely dress whose fabric is phenonemal. It is by the Italian designer Franco Bertoli and you can clearly see its references to the great Italian designs who worked in similar velvets to this like Fortuny and Maria Monaci Gallenga. The dress has a simple cut. The bodice is more fitted and has a seam set under the bust. The lower part of the dress is set into that seam and widens out gradually to the hem. This leaves it loose and easy through the lower part of the body. Each sleeve is cut with a wide flare at the end and you can see how this adds a beautiful line to the dress. The sleeves add movement and drama to the dress and really give it that caftan feel. The fabric is just beautiful. It is a deep deep red and the velvet is soft and plush. Onto it there is a hand painted gold pattern that has those gorgeous large medallions running over the entire dress. You can see and feel the gold on the velvet and it really is just an amazing piece. This is the type of dress you will only ever find in vintage. Excellent condition 

The body of the dress is lined in a burgundy silk and the sleeves are unlined. It closes with a back zipper. There is a hand written numbered tag on the interior at the hem. Hand finishes throughout and hand fines inner seams

Sleeves: 25"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Seam under the bust: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Natural waist - hips: open
Bodice: 10" from shoulder to seam under the bust
Skirt: 39" from seam under the bust to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E693

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