A B O U T

This exquisite 1950s silk cocktail dress by Luis Estévez captures the mid-century ideal of elegance with its masterful cut and refined details. Rendered in a rich, moody floral silk, the dress features a fitted bodice with a jewel neckline and a dramatic plunge back that fastens with a bow at the waist. The full skirt is structured with deep box pleats that create volume and movement, while a built-in tulle petticoat provides shape. Fully lined in black rayon, the construction reflects the quality expected of an Estevez creation during his early, formative years as a designer.

The rear bow detail emphasizes the nipped waist and frames the low back, creating a silhouette both demure and alluring—a perfect balance of sophistication and playfulness that made Estevez a favorite of society women and Hollywood starlets alike.

*About the Designer:

Luis Estévez (1930–2014) was among the first American designers to gain international recognition in the 1950s. Born in Cuba and trained at the Traphagen School of Fashion in New York, Estévez launched his own label after working in Paris with Jean Patou. He quickly became known for his dramatic eveningwear, daring necklines, and sculptural use of fabric. In 1956, at only 26 years old, he won the Cotton Council’s “Young Designer Award” and was named to the Coty American Fashion Critics’ Hall of Fame, cementing his place in fashion history. His designs, often celebrated for their glamour and architectural precision, were worn by icons such as Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, and Lana Turner.

This cocktail dress is a quintessential example of Estévez’s early work—youthful, architectural, and chic—embodying the timeless appeal that continues to captivate collectors today. In excellent condition, freshly dry cleaned and ready to wear. 

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

Bust: up to 36" /  shoulder to waist: 15.5"

Waist: up to 26"

Hips: open

Length from top of shoulder to hem: 42"

Fits like a small

Label: Estevez Grenelle 
Material:  silk, rayon lining, tulle petticoat 

Condition: Excellent, freshly dry cleaned and ready to wear. Minor signs of wear typical of age. 

https://shopxtabay.com/pages/policies

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").


💖 F O L L O W

facebook | xtabay vintage clothing boutique 
instagram | xtabayvintage
pinterest | xtabay