Beautiful custom made evening gown by designer Darnell of London

Darnell of London made glamorous dresses for performers, notably Shirley Bassey, Dusty Springfield and Dian Dors.

http://catwalkthreads.wordpresss.com/2010/12/15vintage-gowns-by-darnell-of-london/

I am guessing that this dates form the 80's.

The dress is expertly made in vibrant red silk, fully lined with a heavily beaded top in a red and gold pattern. The beading is made of tiny glass beads - there must be thousands - all hand sewn. The skirt is almost full circle and drapes beautifully from a flattering asymmetric waistline. The sleeves are 3/4 length and hang gracefully in a waterfall effect. The neckline is open and is also of an unusual asymmetric cut. There is an invisible zip at back.

The dress is in good vintage condition apart from a rip in the lining of the underarm and a couple of small dirt marks near the hem of the dress - I can send further photos, if required. It has been in storage for sometime and would benefit from a dry clean.

I would say this dress is an approximate size 12

Measurement when laid flat:

Underarm to underarm - 45cm

Waist - 37cm

hip to hip - free

waist to bottom - 110cm

N.B. The mannequin is a size straight size 8 and the dress would fit and drape much better on a fuller or curvier figure