Swing Collectibles

Darla

This delightfully feminine frock is called the "Darla". Based on an original dress from 1945, the Darla reflects the design trends of the period in many ways. The exploration of the use of ruching, which is a quintessential design element of the time, seems to be the intention of the original designer. While there was some re-interpretation of the orginial design, you will still find multiple rows of ruching at shoulder front and lower bodice. The sleeves are unique in that the center of the sleeve has seven rows of ruching set into a "V" shaped slit near the hem.

The sleeve is gathered at the cap. This treatment keeps a smooth line at the lower half of the sleeve and creates a soft billowy shape at the top. The seven gore skirt is set below the bust line in a peak between the breasts. This design element was very popular during this period and is quite flattering as the skirt lays smoothly from rib to hip while the bodice creates fullness only at the bustline. The Darla is stitched silk in almond colored silk georgette print. (Due to the war effort, the Darla in its day could not have been stitched in silk as it was being used to make parachutes for the troops. We selected this fabric, however, for the fine quality of the fabric and the vintage "look" of the print.)

Handwash in cold water and line dry or dry clean.

$250

*** PLEASE NOTE: This dress is sheer and a slip will need to be worn underneath it.

reVamp offers an accompanying slip in matching creme satin. It has six gores and shaped bodice front derived from an vintage pattern from 1943.

$100