"Conversation Pieces" 1950's Vanity Fair Black Lace Slip
There isn't much literature behind the elusive Vanity Fair "Conversation Pieces" line, but I'll piece together what I can to give the full picture of these extraordinary pieces!
A little information about this piece:
Made of a delicate, yet sturdy Black Stretch Lace and fine Crystal Pleats of a delicate Nylon Chiffon line the hem.
The special Gold Thread, Chiffon "Vanity Fair" tag hidden on the inside seam.
From what I've gathered, this is one of only a handful of styles that Vanity Fair released as part of their "Conversation Pieces" (not sure if VF coined that or the lingerie collecting audience) line.
I found an article from the Sunday Herald Magazine dated December 11, 1955 where there was a holiday write-up about this new launch from Vanity Fair.
For the girl who dreams of gold for Christmas there is a nylon lingerie lavished with gleaming "cloth of gold" accents offered by Vanity Fair.
An aura of excitement goes with garments trimmed with this rich tricot impregnated with 24 karat gold.
(...)
A theater slip, two beautifully styled nightgowns, an elegant peignoir, and bra and briefs also take on the "Midas" look.
Sunday Herald Magazine, December 11, 1955
In the coming weeks, I'll be posting the gold pieces online, but, for now, let's revel in the beautiful simplicity of this slip.
By all accounts this is a line that was very short-lived and meant more as a capsule collection. In 1955, items from this line retailed between $12,95- 99.95 and if I priced this slip at the low end of the retail spectrum this slip would have been $12.95 in 1955. If adjusted for inflation the same slip would retail for $148.37 in 2023. The gold pieces would be over $1,100 today! Definitely one of the first luxury lines!
If you love the history behind this piece, stay posted for more from this line!
circa 1950's, United States
AP.11.19.CP.43