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
1980's Floral 2 Piece Ensemble
This 1980's ensemble has a long slip dress made of black jersey with an organza overlay at the bust line that is made of the same fabric as the caftan. The caftan is absolutely amazing with gorgeous statement sleeves with extra long cuffs. I wish my mannequin showed off these sleeves more appropriately -- they are truly incredible! It is black with large, green flowers. The collar has a simple sash that can be worn tied or loosely.
This sensational ensemble comes from a remarkable woman who was very close to the Houston couture boutique owner, Isabell Gerhart. Isabell and Norwin Gerhart knew every major designer of the mid to late part of the 20th century and many of them visited them at their home in Houston. The woman who owned this ensemble worked at the upscale store (no longer in business) for many years and her clothing collection is outstanding. I am selling a few of her pieces on Dressing Vintage, and this one is one of my favorites.
This outfit is in excellent condition. The dress is an approximate size 8 and the caftan is one size.
Dress:
| BUST: | 38" |
| WAIST: | 36" |
| HIPS: | 42" |
| LENGTH from top of shoulder straps | 55" |
Caftan:
LENGTH from nape of neck: 56”
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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