Help with 1980s dress

[mommyofone]

Hi. Can anyone help me with what this style of dress might be called and/or how to describe it effectively? I am pretty sure it is from the 1980s (shoulder pads!). Maybe there is a bit of a kimono style influence around the neck? I have no idea. It still has tags on it (from Sears, that hotbed of fashion, LOL) but I know it is not a sought-after designer (J. Stevens by Carol Escritor). Fabric is rayon and acetate and it was made in the USA. It has a lot of texture. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!!

 

[Jonathan]

It's based on the Cheong Sam - a style of dress that originated in Shanghai and Hong Kong in the 1920s-30s

 

[mommyofone]

Thanks, Jonathan! That is very helpful. Would you guess it is from the 1980s?

 

[Jonathan]

I wouldn't be able to tell without handling it but they have never stop being made - you can still get them. However, the shoulder pads sound pretty damning for the 1980s!

 

[mommyofone]

Thanks again. I agree about the shoulder pads and their damning effect.