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"