Grenelle Estevez and Mollie Parnis Help

cosmiccowgirl

cosmiccowgirl

Alumni
Yesterday I picked up several marvelous vintage pieces.

I was thrilled when I found a Grenelle Estevez label in the skirt seam of this black dress. It's made of what I believe is a silky rayon crepe with a wonderful drape to it. The bodice is goddess draped and the skirt is full. The waist section is black satin with a section of the same fabric the body of the dress is made of running through the middle. This turns into a bow in the back, which has a plunging neckline. It's fully lined in taffeta and zips up the back with a metal zipper.

Is this late 50s to early 60s? The skirt is pretty full, should I display it with a light crinoline or as is? It's in great condition with the exception of the zipper which has some teeth missing at the bottom so it comes off its track when unzipped to the bottom.

Although I know of Luis Estevez, I am not super familiar with this designer. Can someone shed some light on him? Anyone have any key words they could share?

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/est1.jpg><BR>

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/est2.jpg><BR>

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/est3.jpg><BR>

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/est4.jpg><BR>

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/est5.jpg><BR>

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/est6.jpg><BR>

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/est7.jpg><BR>

I also picked up a Mollie Parnis, again in great condition. It appears to be wool crepe and trimmed in white silk satin. Is the proper word for this trim soutache? It's fully lined and has an empire waist with a metal back zipper and black satin ribbon belt. Early 70s maybe? Again, any key word help or other information would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!

<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/par2.jpg><BR>
<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/par3.jpg><BR>
<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/par4.jpg><BR>
<img src=http://www.grandecom.net/~cosmiccowgirl/ebay/par1.jpg><BR>
 
Wow, those dresses are both pretty !

Estevez started to design for Grenelle in 1955. His specialized in black and white cocktail and evening dresses. Yours is a classic example of his work. I can see Zsa Zsa Gabor in this one !

On the Parnis, I think that is a decorative braid rather than soutache. Not sure on the date, but it looks 60's to me because of the empire waist.

Good luck with them !

Mary
 
Whooo Leigh, you have an Estevez! Fab find and this is an early one too!

I would also say 60s on the Mollie Parnis, and agree with Mary on the
decorative braid terminology, not soutache

Sue:)
 
Both are wonderful finds, and guess what? We need both labels on the label resource. Can you put them on the thread on the label board?
Thanks!
Lizzie:D
 
I don't know what the Estevez would like with a crinoline but I like it the way you are showing it. If you want a little more drama how about a fan swooping and billowing it?

Both are wonderful such lucky finds.
 
Ohhh, I just love that Estevez! Just a fabulously flattering design that will NEVER go out of style.

This reminds me of a LBD I recently sold, though mine had a tight hugging skirt on it. Here is the response I got from the buyer, just an example of why the best vintage styles will always ROCK.

"I just want to thank you for this beautiful dress which I received today! I dont' know where you found it, and I'm normally not one to buy vintage clothing, but it is such a classic and timeless piece that it doesn't matter what year it is. The fit is also just PERFECT for my figure, because I have a small waist in relation to the rest of my body and clothing usually fits a bit loose in that area (oh poor me, I know, *lol*). I also have a small chest so the shirred bodice is just right for adding to the illusion of something being there. Now I just need to find a great occasion to wear this at! :)"

Just thought I would share that as we sometimes feel our fantastic LBD go unnoticed.
 
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