878. Ginger Rogers “Penny Carroll” Grecian dance gown designed by Bernard Newman from Swing Time. (RKO, 1936) Bona fide triple-threat Hollywood icon Ginger Rogers danced her way across the silver screen into the hearts of American audiences and the arms of some debonair partners in the most memorable musicals ever made. And Rogers always floated across a dance floor in the most elegant and beautiful costumes the era’s designers could dream up. Gowns that often seemed as effortlessly choreographed in their movement as hers. This custom-made Grecian dance gown was designed by RKO designer Bernard Newman for use by Ginger Rogers in Swing Time (working title Never Gonna Dance) and is constructed of floor length two-tone chocolate and crème crepe with gathered waist cinched by gold spiral applique’ detail. With sweetheart neckline and shoulder straps of linked chocolate brown self covered hoops. Integral crepe slip for volume and lining of flesh colored mesh at bust and bodice. Hook and loop back closure. The gown was worn by Rogers in an unused scene from the film and became the grand prize in a 1936 contest promotion to win “Ginger Rogers’ dance frock” from the upcoming RKO film sponsored by Screen Romances magazine. The dress is accompanied by the original congratulatory letter to the contest winner from the director of publicity at RKO Studios, on studio letterhead, as well as a Typed Letter Signed by Ginger Rogers, with transmittal envelope, thanking the fan’s sister for sending a picture of herself wearing the dress she’d won. Rogers writes, in part: “My congratulations to your sister for winning the dress, and to you, my heartfelt wish that you never have to work as hard in it as I did! Sincerely Ginger Rogers”. Also includes a clipping from Screen Romances magazine showing Rogers posing in this dress and the contest rules. Gown exhibits minor straining near the bottom, yet remains in vintage, fine condition.
$4,000 - $6,000