I have had this in my archives for ages - before we even first found the reference photo of it that was used in one of written by Laura McClaws Helms. She explored some of the history of the label and it is worth it to click the link above and read her post if you missed it the first time around. This dress is the twin of the dress used for the ad campaign that year and I have included that reference photo here.

The dress is absolutely wonderful and it really showcases the higher end work that the label was capable of. Around the same time that Starr hired Elinor Simmons to design the label for him, he also had a company based in Hong Kong that was doing the more elaborate beading and sequin work. At the time, Hong Kong was doing the best sequin and bead work in the world outside of the specialty ateliers in Paris. The high quality of that work is readily apparent on this dress. The entire upper bodice is covered with beads, sequins and prong set crystals. Each of these elements are hand sewn into place to exactly follow the pattern in the fabric underneath. All of the edges are also bordered with a hand set bead and gold cord detail that precisely follows the curves of the dress. The fabric is a silk blend with a very 1960's feeling pattern done in deep corals, navy and white. The bodice is molded around the bust and nips in at the high waist with a band of the same fabric making it feel even tinier then it already is. Under that, the skirt flares out dramatically with yards and yards of fabric in it. The silk is just heavy enough to help keep the shape and volume. I love the little cut out that sits just at the base of the bust. It allows the smallest bit of skin to peek through for the perfect finishing, sexy touch. Excellent condition

The bodice is lined in a red silky rayon and the skirt is self-lined in a white cotton muslin fabric. It zips to close at the back. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. There is approx 1.5" turned up under the hem.

Bust: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 11.5" from top of shoulder to top waist seam
Waist Band: 3"
Skirt: 40" from lower waist seam to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD3223

Reference photo: 1968 Malcolm Starr Ad.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.