Two Victor Costa Dresses, 1980s

This lot includes two dresses.

Victor Costa was born in 1935 and his work in fashion began in New York in the 1960s, when he adapted Paris fashions for the American market. As he began designing under his own label, his affinity for making women feel glamorous earned him a clientele throughout the United States, from New York society to Hollywood. His early formal training at the Pratt Institute and the Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, as well as his business savvy, enabled him to produce high-quality garments at economical prices. He continued taking inspiration from French couture throughout the 1980s and 90s, earning him the nickname “King of the Copycats.”

THE FIRST
Black, pink, and blue abstract hand painted effect printed silk dress with wide neckline, tiered short sleeves, deep V back, tiered bottom panel with large round bow detail, and back zipper closure.
Label: Victor Costa
Size Label: 12

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 16.25"
Chest: 36"
Waist: 33.5"
Hips: 36.5"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 40"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 20.5"

THE SECOND
Black acetate dress with crew neckline, set in long sleeves, asymmetrical structured pleated flounce along the hem, and center back zipper closure.
Label: Victor Costa
Size Label: 6

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 15.25"
Chest: 32.5"
Waist: 28.25"
Hips: 31.75"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 43.75"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 31"

Property from the Collection of the North Coast College

Condition:

THE FIRST
The overall condition is very good with only a faint white mark on the front right side along the black outline next to the armscye.

THE SECOND
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.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

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Two Victor Costa Dresses, 1980s

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