A B O U T

A breathtaking example of New Look era early 1950's couture, this sculptural tea-length cocktail dress attributed to Werle of Beverly Hills exemplifies the designer’s mastery of form, fabric, and dramatic movement. Renowned for dressing Hollywood’s most elegant stars—among them Marlene Dietrich, Loretta Young, and Barbara Stanwyck—Werle’s creations embodied the glamour and precision of postwar couture translated for the American elite.

Crafted in a luminous gunmetal gray silk dupioni, the dress features a beautifully draped surplice bodice with a plunging V-neckline, artfully gathered shoulders, and ruched three-quarter sleeves that emphasize the natural curve of the arm. The bodice closes with self-covered buttons and a narrow matching belt that cinches the waist, highlighting the sculpted midcentury silhouette.

The pièce de résistance is the extraordinary chevron-pleated full skirt, meticulously engineered from diagonal panels of silk that create a dynamic interplay of texture and light. The directional pleating radiates from the waist in a fan-like pattern, giving the skirt both structure and fluidity—an unmistakable mark of couture-level craftsmanship.

Finished with hook and eyes and interior couture seaming, this garment demonstrates the impeccable construction associated with Werle’s Beverly Hills atelier. A hidden back zipper closure ensures a seamless fit, and the mid-calf length offers both grace and modern wearability. The skirt is backed with black netting and lined with a blush slip. In overall very good condition, freshly cleaned and ready to wear. 

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

Bust: up to 34” / shoulders: 15"

Waist: up to 26"

Hips: open 

Length from top of shoulder to hem: 48"

Fits like a small 

Label: missing label, previous owner attributes the design to Werle of Beverly Hills. 
Material: silk, netting 

Condition:  overall very good with signs of wear typical of age. Some spots here and there that hide well in the folds of the fabric. Small repairs made to the bodice at the underarms. Wears and presents beautifully. Flaws only noticed upon close inspection. See included close up pictures for full condition report. 

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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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