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1940s Boat Neck Ballet Gown

1940s Boat Neck Ballet Gown

$3,098.00

The highly requested 1940s boat neck ballet gown, cut in luxurious satin with a graceful neckline, flattering cap sleeves, a sculpted basque waist, and a gently gathered full skirt that falls into a dramatic cathedral train. This piece has been thoughtfully modernized with cap sleeves and a corseted back for more flexible sizing while honoring the beauty of the original silhouette.

Note on Fit: An additional piece of fabric (15x15in) is included with purchase to assist with alterations or resizing if desired. The lace-up back offers adjustable sizing flexibility. As currently styled with the modesty panel in place, the gown is best suited for an XS/S fit. Removing the existing panel, or creating a new modesty panel using the included 15 x 15 in fabric piece, would allow for a larger fit — potentially up to a size Large. Please reach out with any questions regarding sizing or alterations.

Features

Era: 1940s

Material: Satin, Solid brass grommets

Sourced In: USA

Color:  Ivory

Closure Type: Corseted lace-up back

Measurements

Best Fits: XS/S - with current modesty panel.

Note on Fit: An additional piece of fabric is included with purchase to assist with alterations or resizing if desired. The lace-up back offers adjustable sizing flexibility. As currently styled with the modesty panel in place, the gown is best suited for an XS/S fit. Removing the existing panel, or creating a new modesty panel using the included 15 x 15 in fabric piece, would allow for a larger fit — potentially up to a size Large. Please reach out with any questions regarding sizing or alterations.


Stretch: No stretch; lace-up back allows for flexible sizing.

Extra Fabric: Yes. 1 piece of 15 in x 15 in

Approximate Measurements:

Bust: 32 - 35 in - with current modesty panel
Waist: 24 - 26 in - with current modesty panel
Hips: Free

Center of Bust to Point of Basque Waist: 11 in
Length (Center of Bodice to Front Hem): 46.5 in

Length (Top of Shoulder to Front Hem): 52 in
Train length (Front Hem to End of Train): 36 in

Clipped-on Model: Yes, slightly.

Model info: Model is 5'3" with shoes shown/ Waist: 24.5" / Hips: 33" / Bust: 32" 

CONDITION

This vintage piece is in good overall condition for its age. There are three small mended holes on the front skirt, some light scuffing throughout, faint hem marks at the back, and one mark on the back of the skirt. Please refer to the photos and videos, taken in natural light.

Other minor vintage imperfections may be present due to the age and delicate nature of vintage textiles. These are considered normal for garments of this era and add character to the piece’s storied history. We carefully inspect each garment prior to listing and do our best to document all visible and notable imperfections to the best of our ability.

While every garment is carefully inspected, not every minor imperfection can always be individually noted. These characteristics are typical of vintage garments and contribute to their unique history and charm.

Each piece has been professionally cleaned and arrives ready to wear. A light steam may be needed upon arrival to release any wrinkles from shipping (please see care instructions).

VINTAGE CONDITION GUIDE

Pristine — Never worn or in flawless condition, with no visible flaws.

Excellent — Beautiful overall condition. May include some visible flaws that do not detract from the garment’s overall impact.

Great — Noticeable wear with visible flaws, though still wearable and intact.

Good — Multiple or more prominent flaws that may affect wearability or overall appearance.

Fair — Best suited for display, repair, or study purposes.

Care

Please handle delicately. This garment is vintage and may be more fragile than modern pieces. Avoid excessive pulling, stretching, or pressure on seams and closures. Store properly and wear with care to preserve its condition. The piece has been cleaned and arrives ready to wear. A light steam will be needed to release any wrinkles from shipping. When steaming, we recommend using distilled water and placing a clean white cloth between the steamer and the garment to protect the fabric from potential water marks. When possible, steam from the inside of the garment for the safest and most gentle results.

Returns

Due to the unique and delicate nature of vintage garments, all pieces are final sale

Please review the condition notes, fabric contents, full item description, measurements, and care instructions carefully prior to purchasing. If you have any questions regarding fit, details, or condition, we encourage you to reach out before checkout at hello@1208vintage.com. 

Due to their age, minor imperfections may be present and are considered part of the garment’s history. These garments have lived full lives, surviving decades and often generations of ownership and wear. Vintage textiles are delicate and may show signs of wear. These may include light spots, faint discoloration, small marks, pinholes, areas of fabric wear, or previous repairs. Vintage garments were also constructed differently from modern clothing. 

Many feature fine seam allowances and interior finishes such as pinking, which were commonly used in historic garment construction. Over time, seam edges may appear soft or fuzzy. This is normal for garments of this era and does not affect the overall wearability or integrity of the piece. 

Any notable imperfections will be disclosed in the Condition Notes section of each product listing to the best of our abilities. While every garment is carefully inspected, not every minor imperfection can always be individually noted. These characteristics are typical of vintage garments and contribute to their unique history and charm. 

By purchasing, you acknowledge and accept the nature of vintage garments and agree to our final sale policy.