1992 Bob Mackie Runway Metallic Gold Fully-Beaded Halter High Slit 'Flapper' Dress

ID: 1017263 Size: small-medium Condition: excellent This highly coveted and truly spectacular 1992 spring/summer Bob Mackie metallic gold fully beaded halter dress is such a perfect example of his genius. Known for his extravagant designs and incredible sense of showmanship, Mackie dressed some of the most iconic women in entertainment, including Cher, Diana Ross, Tina Turner and Carol Burnett. Titled ‘20th Century Legends’, this collection paid homage to eight extraordinary women with unmistakable personal styles. Among those celebrated were Lucille Ball, Rita Hayworth and Grace Kelly, each inspiring a series of unforgettable looks. This dress was inspired by Billie Holiday, drawing from her beginnings as a rising jazz singer in the late 1920s and early 1930s nightclub scene. The chic flapper-inspired silhouette features a dropped waist, a halter strap that fastens behind the neck, and a softly draped cowl neckline. On the runway, the model dramatically removed a floor-length opera coat to grandly reveal the sparkling piece beneath. The dress has a vibrant chartreuse silk lining, covered in delicate nude mesh lavishly embellished with metallic gold beadwork. Tiny seed beads and slender bugle beads form vertical rows of undulating waves, while the draped upper bodice is covered in a dense mosaic of gold glass beads, arranged at varying angles to create a dazzling, almost jewel-encrusted effect. I love how an angled band separates the two designs and also wraps around the dropped waist. The skirt's angled hemline is bordered with a swirling Art Deco design on unlined mesh, allowing the intricacy to really pop. A seductive thigh-high slit reveals a fabulous peek of skin, while the two elongated points move beautifully with every step you take. The back has a gently scooped shape, continuing the elaborate decoration, with a concealed center zipper for closure. You really have to see the craftsmanship up close to appreciate the extraordinary amount of work that went into this piece. With Bob Mackie's recent passing, the fashion world has lost one of its greatest creative talents, but what an incredible legacy he leaves behind. It is especially wonderful that he got to see a new generation of major celebrities embracing his archival designs, introducing his work to an entirely new audience. Documented runway pieces from such an important collection will only become increasingly difficult to find, particularly one as captivating as this dress. Measurements Bust: 34-35 inches Hips: 37-38 inches Shortest Length: 37 inches Longest Length: 50 inches This archival 1992 s/s Bob Mackie designer dress is in beautiful condition with the original back center zipper in place. No rips or holes, we only found one tiny spot on the lining of the bodice. Please message for detailed pictures. A wonderful wearable investment piece that will only increase in value.