A B O U T

A masterpiece of American couture, this exquisite 1950s cocktail dress by Traina-Norell captures the refined elegance and impeccable craftsmanship that defined Norman Norell’s work during his partnership with Anthony Traina. Designed for the sophisticated woman of the era, it embodies the balance between sculptural tailoring and feminine grace for which the house became internationally celebrated.

The dress features a fitted bodice of luminous rose-pink iridescent sari silk, delicately embroidered with metallic silver floral motifs that shimmer softly in the light. The wide bateau neckline and three-quarter sleeves frame the shoulders with understated poise, while the original matching silk belt defines the waist—an iconic Norell detail emphasizing structure and proportion.

Falling from the nipped waist, the full black silk chiffon skirt floats effortlessly, composed of multiple layers that create volume and movement without bulk. A fitted silk under skirt sits under the sheer chiffon layers. The silhouette—slim through the torso, voluminous below the waist—reflects Norell’s mastery of line and fabric, echoing the influence of the Parisian couture houses he admired, yet distilled through a distinctly American modern sensibility.

Fastening with a back button closure on the bodice and side metal zipper at the skirt, the dress is fully finished and lined in fine black silk crepe. The label Traina-Norell, New York attests to its early origin, prior to Norell’s solo label in 1960, making this piece both exceptionally rare and historically significant.

M E A S U R E M E N T S *

Bust: up to 34” 

Waist: up to 24"

Hips: up to 36"

Length from top of shoulder to hem: 44"

Fits like an  small 

Label: Traina-Norell New York 
Material: silk 

Condition: overall excellent , freshly dry cleaned and ready to wear. Minor signs of wear typical of age. Some minor discoloration at the waist and on the sleeves. 

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All of our pieces are thoroughly inspected and repaired by our in house professional seamstress prior to shipping to ensure your garment is in ready to wear condition upon arrival. 

*Please compare measurements to a garment you currently own to ensure proper fit! Please note: most of our pieces are clipped to fit our dress forms (bust: 34"; waist: 23").


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