Late 20th-Century Green and Black Floral Midi Skirt

From the Closet of: Roya Shanks No Label Era: Late 20th-Century Size: Small / Medium About the Item: Purchased at Shareen, the cult-favorite vintage boutique once hidden on the second floor of a West 17th Street townhouse, this late-1950s or early-1960s skirt embodies the sort of extraordinary find that kept New York vintage devotees climbing its creaky stairs. Owner Shareen Mitchell famously signaled the shop was open by hanging a dress from the balcony, and Roya Shariat recalls that the store had "an amazing collection." This piece was among her favorite discoveries there: a richly textured silk skirt with a quilted feel, black lattice embroidery, jet-like beading, and flashes of vivid emerald-colored florals beneath. "It's silk, but it has a heft to it," Roya says, noting the rhinestone embellishments and remarkable craftsmanship. "There's some sparkle black, some rhinestoney things, and then these green flowers. It's really beautiful." The only surviving tag reads "All Silk," the type of elegant material designation often found in high-end mid-century garments—including pieces by designers such as Adolfo—before modern care labels became standard. Measurements: Waist: 15” Hip: 23” (flared skirt) Length: 32.5” Fabric: Silk Condition: Item is in great vintage condition.