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
This is an iconic butterfly dress design by Norma Kamali in the 1970's. The dress is in a silky cream viscose fabric in the tiered, draped butterfly design that hangs longer on either side.
There are loops around the shoulders of fabric that give this jacket the illusion of shoulder pads, but, instead of shoulder pads, it is fabric tied around the tops of the shoulders. This dress has three tiers of gorgeous pleated fine rayon fabric that creates the effect of butterfly wings. It has a deep V neck both in the front and in the back and is in a lovely cream color. This one closes with hooks and eyes down the front seam so it can be worn as an evening jacket or dress.
This dress version was designed in 1978 and a version of it is in the MET museum.
The original owner unfortunately removed the label on this vintage dress (the black Norma Kamali OMO label would have showed through the semi sheer fabric). We have had one of these dresses in the past, and there is no mistaking it! The original owner assured us it is authentic, and her estate was full of wonderful designers such as Chanel, Hermes and Valentino.
Each tier has a 40" opening, and the draping material and construction allow it to fit a range of sizes. It is modeled on our size 2 mannequin without pinning. Can fit up to a size 6 (hooked) due to 40" tier measurements.
LENGTH from shoulder to side hem: 45"
LENGTH from shoulder to front hem: 34"
SHOULDERS: 14"
TIER MEASUREMENTS (top seam to bottom seam): 13-14""EACH
In order to best determine fit, measure yourself or a garment of a smilar style 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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