This dress employs two Bill Blass signature “codes”—tiers and ruffles—in a nod to flamenco costume. We couldn't find an exact match for it in any editorial or runway photos, but it is very similar to a dress that was released in 1976. The runway dress, and its Manifold Vintage sibling, exemplify two features of 1970s clothing production that may be surprising to present-day buyers.
First, they demonstrate how runway pieces were often simplified for production and sales. The runway dress, and the one Manifold Vintage holds, share several features: both are black, both share a ruffled chiffon layer near the neckline, two chiffon pieces that might be tied in a bow, and chiffon tiering towards the bottom. But the runway dress was full-length, had two tiers, and included ornamentation on the straps. Clothing producers still simplify runway pieces for the retail market. Second—and arguably more surprising by present-day standards—the dress was featured in two consecutive runway shows: Spring/Summer 1976 and Resort 1976. (You can spot a young Bill Cunningham pictured in the SS1976 image.) We can only speculate as to why. But putting a standout item in multiple shows would maximize its chances of being seen at a time when runway images were harder to come by.
In very good condition.
bust: 32, waist: 30, length: 47
size: S and XS
Return policy: Returns accepted within 7 days of receipt for a credit card refund and within 14 days for store credit. Item must have original tags still attached.
