Two Galanos Dresses, 1980s

This lot contains two dresses by James Galanos.  

James Galanos (1924-2016) was the only son of Greek born parents. In 1944, he became a general assistant at the New York East 49th Street emporium of Hattie Carnegie. Galanos was known for using the finest materials and impeccable construction, often called the "˜American Couturier'. With a career that spanned five decades, he dressed Hollywood stars, royalty, and political figures of the day.

These dresses were 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.  

THE FIRST
This evening dress comes from the Fall 1987 collection of James Galanos, featuring shoulder buttons by Tess Sholom. A dress of a similar design appeared in the Galanos exhibition at The Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 1996.  

Green crepe one shoulder evening gown with fancy crystal buttons (by Tess Sholom), a keyhole chest cut out, and a center back and side zipper closure; paired with a matching green prong belt with a square buckle. Fall 1987
Label: Galanos  
Retail Label: Martha  Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:
JACKETChest: 30"Waist: 26.25"Hips: 30.5"Length (high shoulder point to hem): 56"

BELT
Length: 27.5"
Width: 1"

THE SECOND
Red crepe dress with crew neckline, short pleated bell sleeves, and center back zipper closure.
Label: GalanosSize Label: Unlabeled
 Approximate Measurements:Shoulders: 13.25"Chest: 33.5"Waist: 33"Hips: 34.5"Length (high shoulder point to hem): 48"Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 21"
Property from the Estate of Bud and Donna O. Wilkinson

Condition: THE FIRST The overall condition is very good though a few picked threads throughout due to the nature of the textile.THE SECONDThe overall condition is good. There are multiple picked threads along the chest on the center front as well as towards the hem. There are faint soiled spots around the left armscye. On the back, there is a small spot on the left panel, beside the vent as well as the seam above the vent has minor stress. On the interior, there is a very faint soiled spot right above the vent as well as a pulled thread, running vertically down the back left panel.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.