Ronald Amey Couture Beautiful printed Elaborate Buttons Maxi Dress, 1970s

Known for his unique use of fabric and color, American fashion designer Ronald Amey was popular in the 1960’s for his dramatic evening wear. Working from his New York atelier, his made to order dresses were crafted to couture standards. Amey notably collaborated with artist and designer Tzaims Lukus on a few bold prints, one of which combined paisley with stripes.

A 1969 issue of Harpers Bazaar described Amey’s pieces as an “Out an out fantasy,” with several of his designs drawing inspiration from Indian and Victorian fashions. From the 1970’s, this Ronald Amey dress is jaw-dropping gorgeous. Because his dresses were made to order, it is very likely that this dress may be the only one of this design ever created, making it even more special.

Done in a gorgeous couture quality silk, this dress features floral patterns and bold colors. The bodice is done in scalloped stripes of deep purple, black, marmalade, crème, and scarlet, beginning at the high collar through the elegant blouson sleeves which are finished with three filigree buttons at the back of each cuff. Colorful floral patterns repeat throughout in various sizes and configurations, the sleeves finishing with spaced layers of flowering vines on a crème ground.

Size estimate: SML/MED

Shoulders: 14 inches

Sleeves: 24 inches

Bust: up to 36 inches

Waist: 26-30 inches fitted with elastic

Hips: up to 38 inches

Length: 56 inches

The skirt begins with layers of flowering vines on a crème ground to match the sleeves, finishing with bands of purple, orange, marmalade, black, and a band of scarlet at the hem to mirror the bodice. Filigree button closures set with amber colored cabochons line the front placket from the neck to three quarters of the way down the skirt, giving this already refined dress another layer of majesty.

The skirt falls from the fitted waist to maxi length at the ankles, with small gathers at the hips creating a beautiful drape throughout. A slit below the knee allows for ease of movement while also giving the dress a bit of lightness to balance the high neck and long sleeves.

This 1970’s dress is fully lined and closes with buttons along the center front placket. In very good vintage condition, this Ronald Amey dress is over fifty years old and has some light signs of wear. There is a small tear or burn about the size of an eraser head on the side seam of the skirt — please refer to a close-up image of the fabric in the pictures to the left. 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.