Halston Black Halter Dress, 1970s  

In the early 1950s, while attending the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Roy Halston Frowick (American, 1932-1990) began a business designing and making women's hats. He gained a well-known clientele designing for the Chicago elite. He later became the head milliner for high-end New York City department store Bergdorf Goodman. His fame rose when he designed the pill-box hat that Jacqueline Kennedy wore to the inauguration of her husband, President John F. Kennedy, in 1961. In the late 1960s, Halston made the transition to women's clothing, opening a boutique on Madison Avenue in New York, and started a ready-to-wear line eventually rising to international fame in the 1970s with countless licensing agreements.  

This dress was purchased from Martha, a specialty shop created by Martha Phillips, with locations in New York, Palm Beach, and Bal Harbor. The customers that frequented Martha were amongst the wealthiest and most socially prominent figures of the day.

Black knit wrap dress with halter top and v-neckline.
Label: Halston
Retail Label: MarthaSize Label: Unlabeled  Approximate Measurements:Chest: 26"Waist: 23"Hips: 28.75"Length (high shoulder point to hem): 45"
Property from the Estate of Bud and Donna O. Wilkinson

Condition: The overall condition is very good with no visible issues.Everything is sold 'As Is'. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email us with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.