Two Galanos Dresses,  1985-80s  

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
White and black dress with a crew neckline, set in long sleeves, gathered empire waistline, black and white twisted attached belt, long black crepe skirt, and center back zipper closure with a keyhole cut out.Label: Galanos
Retail Label: Martha  Size Label: Unlabeled
Approximate Measurements:Shoulders: 17"Chest: 27"Waist: 22"Hips: 26"Length (high shoulder point to hem): 56"Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 25"

This dress appeared in the  
June 1, 1985 issue of WWD.

THE SECOND
White crepe tiered dress with crew neckline with gathering in the back, set in long sleeves with ruched cuffs, black skirt, and center back button and zipper closure.
Label: Galanos
Retail Label: Martha
Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:Shoulders: 16.5"Chest: 26"Waist: 25"Hips: 28"Length (high shoulder point to hem): 37"Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 25"
Property from the Estate of Bud and Donna O. Wilkinson

Condition: THE FIRSTThe overall condition is good. On the front of the dress, there is a faint blue spot on the right side of the white chiffon bodice as well as a smaller spot on the front left side of the white chiffon, beside the neckline. There are a few small spots along the ruched cuff on the back of the right sleeve. On the interior, there are only a few frayed seams.THE SECONDThe overall condition is good. There are pulled threads throughout, primarily on the backs of the sleeves, the lower part of the center front, and the ruched cuffs. On the back, there is a faint spot on the center back of the bodice. On the interior, there is minor soiling around the armscyes as well as frayed seams throughout.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.