Mollie Parnis is one of my favorite American designers. She was known for having dressed numerous first ladies and her dresses regularly appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vanity Fair. She started a label with her husband in 1933 called Parnis Livingston Inc and she quickly became know for her quality, fit, and use of very good fabrics. She had a particular talent in dressing woman of every age and designed pieces that suited her older clients in a time when this was not a focus. Her husband died in 1962 forcing the label to shutter but she re-grouped and re-opened three months later under her own Mollie Parnis label. The boutique label launched in 1970 and the fabrics used for that line were targeted to a younger audience and utilized brighter colours and and bolder cuts. 

I have had the twin of this dress several years ago and was very pleased to have another. It has such a beautiful and perfect cut to it that allows the stunning fabric to take center stage. The first thing you need to know about this piece is that in person the color is just a touch deeper and the metallic stands out more. It is even more fabulous than how it photoed which says a lot. The dress is shaped in a classic silhouette that is almost sculptural in feel. It is cut to skim over the bodice with a beautiful high collared neckline. The sleeves are long and straight cut with just the slightest taper down to their ends. There is no seam at the waist and the skirt just extends out and falls to the floor. It is cut on an A-line so it widens out as it nears the hem. That fairly simple cut is completely off-set by the spectacular fabric. It is a rich metallic silk brocade with an intricate design that runs across its surface. The metallic portions of the design have a slight puff to them which adds a rich textured feel. It is stunning. Excellent condition.

Fully interlined in a turquoise muslin. Closes with a painted metal zipper. Hand finished interior.

Sleeves: 22" long and 12" around at the upper arm. There is an extra 2" of fabric turned up under the sleeve edge
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from neck to hem with 2.5" turned under the hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD4069

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.