VTG 1957 James Galanos Black Wool Gabardine Couture Suit Bergdorf Provenance
What you’ll love about this 1957 James Galanos couture suit is the impeccable construction, the custom Bergdorf Goodman provenance, and the sculptural bows ribboning across the bodice — pure Old Money elegance designed for the women who were the guest list.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition for a late-50s couture set. Silk-lined bodice is clean and crisp; skirt unlined as originally made. Light, expected age patina only — no major flaws.
Fit Snapshot
Fits like a modern S/4. Tailored, hourglass silhouette. Jacket cap sleeves, slim pencil skirt.
Provenance Note
Custom-made for an elite Bergdorf Goodman client — inner tag shows “Bergdorf Goodman on the Plaza,” client name, and date 9/7/1957. Galanos’ work was bespoke for society patrons; very few survive with documented sales tags from 1950s Bergdorf. A true museum-worthy piece.
Pop Culture & Screen Style References 🎬
Channels the couture wardrobes seen in Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and Jackie Kennedy era — think Mad Men boardrooms and Rear Window cocktail parties.
Style Aesthetics
🔥 Old Hollywood • 📈 Collector-Level Couture • 🌿 Slow Fashion Luxury
Styling Tips
• Pair with black kid gloves + pearls for a vintage society lunch
• Add a jewel-tone hat & heel for a gala-ready moment
• Wear jacket alone with cigarette trousers for modern cocktail chic
Measurements (laid flat)
TOP
Bust: 38”
Waist: 34.5”
Shoulder: 19.5” (structured shoulder width)
Cap Sleeve: 3.5” from shoulder
Length: 18.5”
SKIRT
Waist: 25”
Hips: 37”
Length: 26”
Side metal zip
Approx. Modern Size
US Women’s 4 / Small (please compare measurements — couture fit)
Fit Guide
Best for heights 5’3”–5’7”, smaller waist-to-hip ratio. Bust fits fuller A–C cups comfortably; skirt has slim hip line typical of late-50s tailoring.
Fabric / Materials
Medium-weight wool gabardine, silk lining in jacket, original satin ribbon detailing.
Sustainability Note
Hand-finished couture garments transcend trends — keeping history in circulation is the ultimate in slow fashion.
Costuming CTA
Costuming a film, theater, or creative project? Contact Miss Kitty — our archive of 1950s couture includes prime pieces for Grace Kelly / Hitchcock era productions (think Vertigo, To Catch a Thief). We offer excellent bulk discounts for productions.
