Measuring & Fit Guide
We offer a large selection of designers and manufacturers that span the 20th and early 21st century. Sizing varies greatly, so we have outlined our measuring and size estimating process.
The best way to know if a vintage item will fit you is to take a garment that fits you well, similar to the one you are interested in purchasing, and measure it the way we measure ours.
We lay all garments flat and measure as follows*:
| DRESSES | PANTS | |
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BUST - under arm to under arm across the front and then double that measurement. |
Measure the WAISTBAND, widest part of the HIPS, widest part of the THIGH on one leg and width of the CUFF, then double those measurements |
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WAIST - find the smallest part of the garment if there isn't an obvious seam for the waist and measure across and then double that measurement. |
LENGTH - Measure from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the cuff along the side seam. | |
| HIPS - Find the largest part of the hip area and measure flat, then double that measurement. | RISE - Measure from the crotch to the top of the waistband. | |
| LENGTH - from the nape of the neck or the top of the shoulders, depending on the style of garment. We will measure to the waist when applicable, so that you can determine if it will fit your torso, and then a waist down measurement. | INSEAM - Measure from the crotch to the bottom of the cuff along the inside seam. | |
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SLEEVES - measure from the top of the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve. When we think that the arm opening is particularly small, we will provide that measurement as well.** |
*Fabrics with stretch will have some give, we will try to mention the range of measurements that will fit comfortably.
**With dolman sleeves, the size is an estimation based on the waist as the body seamlessly joins the sleeve. 
Feel free to email us with specific questions about specific measurements that we may not have included that you need to know in order to feel confident about your purchase. If you have a particularly long torso, short legs, long arms, etc.. we can help you determine whether or not a garment will work for your body.
Description
Vintage 1950s Ceil Chapman Dress
This vintage Ceil Chapman dress is amazing! It is crafted with exceptional detail including rows of black lace over netting that give a horizontal stripe effect. It has a side metal zipper and is fully lined with cream taffeta. The only flaw found is that the label needs a stitch on one of the edges.
You will find that Ceil Chapman dresses are very collectible and this one is no exception. You can see why she is such an admired designer. This one is from the 1950’s and is shown with a crinoline slip which is not included. You can find these slips easily at vintage clothing stores, or the Intimates section of our website. It's easy to see why Ceil Chapman was one of Marilyn Monroe's favorite fashion designers!
| Bust | 36" |
| Waist | 26" |
| Hips | Free |
| Arms | 12" opening |
| Sleeve | 6 and 1/2 inches from shoulder seam |
| Length | 12.5" from center of back to waist |
| Length | 16" from top of sleeve to waist |
| Length | 27" from waist |
| Condition | Excellent |
In order to best determine fit, measure yourself or a garment that fits you well. Compare those measurements to those on the item description.
All of our pieces have been professionally cleaned and arrive ready to wear.
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Measurements, not size. View our Measuring Guide
Have Questions? Visit our FAQ or Contact us
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