Vintage Mary Mcfadden Couture Pink Pleated Beaded Waist Maxi Column Dress

An accomplished designer, Mary McFadden studied in New York and Paris, worked at Dior, and served as the editor of Vogue South Africa among other positions and awards. She started her own label in the 1970s, incorporating global inspirations and classic silhouettes in her designs.

She notably created pleated garments that resemble the famous pleated silk dresses by Mariano Fortuny which eventually became her trademark. “The effect I'm searching for is to have the fabric fall like liquid gold against the body” said McFadden of her ‘Marii’ technique, and she seems to have accomplished just that.

Made up of Fortuny style pleats, this statuesque strawberry pink gown begins with a deep V neckline and long puff sleeves that reach just above the wrist. The waist of the gown features a scalloped band of beautiful abstract patterns made up of beads and sequins in shades of blue, pink, lavender, and white, bordered and intersected by gold sequins, creating a gorgeous medley of color that draws the eye. The scallops along the top of the band meet at the center front of waist in an upwards point, mirroring the V neckline before gradually tapering off into a narrower band as it wraps around the back of the bodice, accentuating the hips.

Size: 10

Size estimate: Medium/Large

Shoulders: 15.5 inches

Sleeves: 23 inches

Bust: 34-38 inches

Waist: 29-30 inches

Hips: 34 -38 inches

Length: 56 inches

The skirt falls to a maxi length from the fitted waistline, the ruffled hem reaching just above the ankles. The simple, columnar silhouette of the dress allows the color and beautifully adorned waist to take center stage while the vertically pleated fabric creates a pleasing rhythm throughout. Finished at the neckline with strawberry pink piping, this elegant and refined gown is the perfect choice for an evening soiree or special occasion.

This Mary McFadden couture dress is unlined, has padded shoulders, and closes with a concealed side zip. In excellent condition, this vintage maxi dress has been professionally eco dry cleaned and pressed. 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.