12.30.2014

Edward Molyneux


British born Edward Molyneux (b.1891 - d.1974) was one of the leading couturiers in the first half of the 20th century. He opened his first Paris fashion house in 1919 where he produced his simple, elegant designs for the high-end clientele that "wanted to be absolutely right without being utterly predictable." He soon opened couture houses in several other cities including Grosvenor Street in London (opening in 1932) where he spent the majority of the second World War before returning to Paris in 1946 + retiring in 1950. His highly sought after pieces grace museums + private collections around the world.



Molyneux sheer gown, c.1923 | Molyeux evening gown, c.1935 Kyoto Costume Institute


Marlene Dietrich exiting Molyneux show, c.1937


Molyneux gown + sable bolero, c.1937


Molyneux silver fox fur coat, L'Officiel magazine 1938


It is with that storied history we are happy to present this beautiful + rare late 1930s/early 1940s silver fox fur bolero by Edward Molyneux.

Edward Molyneux 1930s Silver Fox Fur Bolero Jacket
Edward Molyneux 1930s Silver Fox Fur Bolero Jacket
Edward Molyneux 1930s Silver Fox Fur Bolero Jacket
Edward Molyneux 1930s Silver Fox Fur Bolero Jacket

A stunning piece, this Molyneux fur boasts classic bell sleeves + cropped construction with black rayon side panels + lining. Designed to be worn open. Excellent vintage condition - there is a very very slight amount of wear to the guard hairs on the coat - not particularly noticeable, especially for an 85+ year old fur coat. No other rips, tears, odors or shedding. Designed to be worn open.


Available at http://www.bustownmodern.com.

12.18.2014

Holiday Bells


Ensembles/Gowns by Adolfo, circa 1970

Here at Bustown Modern, we are forever a champion of the 60's/70's work of designer Adolfo Sardina. His work from this period is a beautiful exploration of sumptuous fabrics + furs -- silks, metallic brocades, quilted velvets, sable + mink -- along with impeccable construction + extravagant forms. As a designer, he often gets a bad rap. His later St John-style/santana knit rut from the 70s + 80s clouds the public's eye from his previously brilliant work.

Ensemble by Adolfo Sardina, c.1967.
The Darnell Collection of International Vintage Couture, Newcastle Gallery


Curator Charlotte Smith with the Darnell Collection of International Vintage Couture, Newcastle Gallery


We are pleased to offer this museum worthy (as seen above) example of Adolfo Sardina at his best. Stunning vintage late 1960s/early 70s Adolfo red velvet top. SUCH an amazing and rare, museum quality find! Cherry red velvet with off the shoulder high scoop neck and MASSIVE quilted bell sleeves. Woven ethnic patterned ribbon trim. Metal zipper in back. Fully lined in silk. Excellent vintage condition. Best fits size M.






Available at http://www.bustownmodern.com.

12.17.2014

The Two Sides of Beene -- Holiday Edition


Photo courtesy of Architectural Digest

Geoffrey Beene, one of America's most beloved designers, is the king of the cocktail dress. The construction, quality materials + attention to detail make even the simplest of his dresses look elegant. His early career was full of youthful a-line frocks + perfect party attire. Like other designers, his oeuvre changed with the fashion + fads de rigueur. If you pay close attention however, his fashion grew up, just like his clients. As Beene's career furthered his designs went from playful clothing for fashionable youthquakers to breathtaking elegance for the sophisticated woman.

So we present you with two options for your holiday season fĂȘte -- a 60s mini dress for the fun loving party girl + an elegant 80s silk + lace gown for the slightly more conservative. While different, both are perfect examples of Beene's work.







Absolutely adorable circa 1969 Geoffrey Beene red wool mini dress. The ultimate mod piece and perfect for all of your holiday parties! Ultra fitted bodice with classic super-high (almost empire) waistline. High white satin mock-neck and black ribbon tuxedo front with bow-tie and covered buttons. Matching zippered cuffs. Synthetic zipper in back. Fully lined in silk. Best fits sizes XS/S.







Absolutely Stunning 1980s Geoffrey Beene floral evening gown. Spectacular quality with the most beautiful details! The dress features a floral chocolate brown and nude floral lace bodice lined with red taffeta. Long skinny sleeves with scalloped neckline. The gathered skirt is metallic silk with swirling florals, huge front pleat and scalloped, lace hem. This is one of those pieces you truly have to see to believe! Pristine vintage condition. Best fits sizes M/L.


All items available at http://www.bustownmodern.com.

12.01.2014

OWN The Season


Own EVERY holiday party with our 2014 "Own The Season" Holiday Collection! Our top vintage finds for the season will have you looking your best for any holiday occasion. Shop the whole collection at http://www.bustownmodern.com.



All items available at http://www.bustownmodern.com