An early Jacques Fath ball gown and matching cape, probably Spring-Summer, 1948, the gown labelled 'Jacques Fath, Paris', of deep rose-pink satin, zip-fastened centre-front and with zips to both cuffs, the bodice embroidered with stylised flowers and seeds, large elliptical topaz coloured pastes, chunky beads and raised couched threads and braids and scattered silver and gold sequins, the gently gathered skirt which culminates in a padded, quilted band at the hem; the matching cape with similar quilted detailing to the angular collar and hem, bust 91cm, 36in, waist 71cm, 28in (2) Jacques Fath gowns of similar lines formed part of the Spring-Summer 1948 collection which were illustrated in Femina.

Dress: overall visually fresh and good. Bodice decoration – good, lacking just a couple of small beads/sequins. One paste is detached but we have it. Paint on zip is slightly chipped. Zip looks like it has been resewn. Approx 3 barely visible watermarks and various small blemishes down front of skirt and small rouge mark. Dress has been professionally cleaned so appearance is generally good and small marks and stains are thus not immediately visible. Inside: sleeves have been altered, made narrower and new fabric applied to line cuff edge. Sleeves have been re-set into bodice. A backing patch in matching silk has been added to the lining centre-back right waist area to strengthen and reinforce the beaded area at the front. I think the waist has been altered also – made smaller – but extremely well done. It has been re-stitched all along its length. Tears in some of the tulle layered petticoats. Cape: the cape has been cleaned, there are barely visible mildew spots speckling it. Visually first impression is good condition.