James Galanos Couture Emerald Green and Purple Silk Print Dress, 1970s

American designer James Galanos had an extensive list of devotees including Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Diana Ross. With a career that spanned from the 1950s to the 1990s, he was not a designer mired in any one look. A July 14, 1959 New York Times article described Galanos as someone whose look was “…individual, inventive, often opulent and sometimes prophetic.”

This 1970s era silk dress is a striking example of Galanos’ ability to reflect the fashionable desires of contemporary culture. With a screen print most certainly inspired by cloud motifs found in Chinese embroidery, this gown carries a vibrant palette dominated by purples and greens. The complex pattern is thoughtfully placed within the cut of the garment; symmetrical green curves provide an overall slimming effect through the hips.

The deep v-neckline extends all the way down to the waist, but ties together at bust level with a rolled silk streamer. This detail leaves a flirty but subdued key hole opening down to the waistline, which has a hidden zipper extending down to hip level. Full sleeves glide over the shoulders and gather into a buttoned cuff. The skirt is a clever construction of two layered panels that are completely open to the waist.

The back drapes over the front panel, providing full coverage. As you move about, the panels open modestly to reveal part of the leg. The entire ensemble is lined in an emerald green silk chiffon. While Galanos reveled in displaying the female form, his designs respected the potentially discrete nature of the wearer. This vivid gown can be worn in the evening with high strappy shoes, or dressed down for an elegant day with flat sandals and a wide brimmed hat.

Size estimate: S/M

Measurements:

Bust: 34-36 inches

Waist: 24 - 28 inches

Hips: 37 inches

Sleeves: measured from the neckline 25 inches

Length: 60 inches

This 1970s era silk print dress by James Galanos is in excellent condition. A complex screen print pattern, dominated by greens and purples, is placed symmetrically on the dress with special attention to pattern density when framing the face and body. A deep v-neckline extends all the way to waist, with a satin streamer to secure the garment close at bust level; a key hole opening then extends from bust to waistline. Full length sleeves gather gently into buttoned cuff and the fullness of the bodice gathers into a waistband which is opened with a center front hidden zipper.

The skirt is made from two layered panels that are completely open to the waist. The back drapes over the front panel at the sides, providing full coverage over the upper thigh and hip area. The entire ensemble is luxuriously lined in emerald green silk chiffon. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.