Three Versace Items: Two Dresses and a Coat, 1980-90s

The third dress (black and white polka dot) was worn by Etta Froio. During her tenure as the editor of Women’s Wear Daily, Etta Froio was known for her poise and taste, and for giving John B. Fairchild the courage to “do something different.” Alongside Fairchild at the helm, Froio was instrumental in shifting the paper’s focus to American fashion designers and to the starlets and socialites who wore the fashions. Froio retired in 2013 after nearly four decades of watching, writing, and creating the culture of modern fashion.

For more on her legacy, see Edward Nardoza, “Editor’s Letter: Never Can Say Goodbye,” Women’s Wear Daily, March 28, 2012.

This lot includes three pieces; two dresses, one coat. Only the third dress has a known provenance.

THE FIRST
Sleeveless black silk dress with white polka dots and a scoop neckline. The bodice is cut in two layers with the outer layer falling into draped folds. The skirt tapers at the hem and is closed down the center front with buttons. The dress closes down the side seam with a zip.

Label: Gianni Versace / Sera / Made in Italy
Size Label: 40
Style/Serial No.: N/A

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 15"
Chest: 32"
Waist: 28"
Hips: 33"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 53"

THE SECOND
White crepe dress with crew neckline, short sleeves and a panel of black crepe extending down the center front. The dress closes down the center back with a zip. The dress comes with the retail labels still attached.

Label: G V / Versatile / Couture / Made in Italy
Size Label: 42
Model No.: 70843

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 16"
Chest: 34"
Waist: 31"
Hips: 34"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 43"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 17.5"

THE THIRD
Black and white wool and cashmere coat woven with a diagonal stripe. The jacket closes with two buttons at the waistline with one button made of silver metal in a cylinder. Coat is lined.

Label: Gianni Versace / Made in Italy
Size Label: 42 / 8
Style/Serial No.: N/A

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 19.5"
Chest: 40"
Waist: 35"
Hips: 40"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 49"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 33"

Property from the Collection of a Midwest University