NAPLES, Fla. – A century of fashion steps into the spotlight on Saturday, July 24 as Auctions Neapolitan presents its 404-lot Ladies with Style sale, part II, with Internet live bidding provided by LiveAuctioneers.com.
Fashionistas will have a field day choosing from the selection of dresses and accessories that were chosen for the event, said Auctions Neapolitan’s owner, Kathleen Pica. “It’s a nice mix of ladies’ favorites from the 19th century up to about the 1990s. Some of the items are very beautifully made – it’s incredible to see the fine workmanship that went into many of these pieces, especially when compared to what we see today.”
In addition to standard apparel, the auction includes antique lace and satin bridal wear, and gorgeous beaded dresses and gowns that bring to mind the days of Joan Collins and Linda Evans on Dynasty. Estimates and opening bids are extremely reasonable. For instance, lot 124, a 1970s Balenciaga-designed Jeffrey and Dave side-draped velvet gown has a starting bid of only $10 and an estimate of $80-$100. An early 1960s Yves Saint Laurent-designed black satin and lace top with peplum waist and long sleeves also has an opening bid of $10 and is estimated at $40-$60.
Costume jewelry has never been more popular, and Auctions Neapolitan’s sale is the place to look for bracelets, necklaces, earrings and brooches sold in generous “tray” lots. For instance, lot 42 is a tray loaded down with assorted costume jewelry – some of it signed – by such makers as Marvella, Trifari and Monet. Many of the pieces feature faux diamonds, faux pearls and rhinestones. This mini trove of costumer treasures has an opening bid of $10 and an estimate of $50-$100.
The auction also features many pieces of fine jewelry, which is not surprising, since Auctions Neapolitan is located in the upscale waterfront community of Naples, Florida. Lot 212, a platinum ring featuring a 1-carat center ruby stone and .60 carats of diamonds is estimated at $1,800-$2,200; while a 14K yellow gold ring featuring six square-cut, channel-set blue sapphires and 24 round-cut, channel-set diamonds is conservatively estimated at $900-$1,200. Both rings have an opening bid of $900-$1,200.
Accessories include designer hats, shoes, compacts, gloves, wraps, vintage eyewear, antique handbags and both crystal and beaded purses. A standout is lot 343, a vintage micro-beaded, silk-lined handbag displaying a Venetian scene. “This is just the sort of bag that collectors love,” said Pica. “The artistry is superb.” The purse is estimated at $300-$500 and has an opening bid of $10.
In addition to fashion, the auction also includes a selection of old sewing machines, including a miniature hand-crank model by singer (lot 7) that is estimated at $50-$100.
“We think this sale is going to be a lot of fun, and of course with LiveAuctioneers making it possible to bid online, collectors anywhere in the world can come to our virtual boutique online and place their bids,” said Pica.
For additional information about any item in the sale, call 239-262-7333 or e-mail sales@auctionsn.com.
ADDITIONAL LOTS OF NOTE
