1980s Victor Costa Beaded Illusion Tulle + Taffeta Gown – Size 2

Description

1980s Victor Costa Beaded Illusion Tulle + Taffeta Gown – Size 2

Description:
Victor Costa was doing high fashion fantasy long before Pinterest moodboards were a thing. This late 1980s/early ’90s number is the kind of dress you’d expect to see gliding past the velvet ropes at the Met Gala if the invite list were curated by André Leon Talley himself. A lush explosion of fuchsia taffeta blooms from a sheer black tulle bodice, intricately hand-beaded with hot pink and violet sequined florals. The wide pleated waist sash in orchid silk pulls it all together with couture-level polish.

Sculptural, unapologetically feminine, and made for the woman who actually RSVPs “yes” to everything—gallery openings, fashion week receptions, cocktail-hour fundraisers. Especially that one in TriBeCa with a 3-floor walkup and a jazz trio playing in the kitchen.

Styling Tips:
Style with minimalist white or chrome heels, a micro box bag (as shown), and sculptural earrings. Could also be taken downtown with a moto jacket and pointed boots. This dress does not blend in.

Era: Late 1980s to early 1990s
Brand: Victor Costa
Estimated Fit: Best fits modern size 2 (model is 5’8”, 32B, wearing unpinned)
Material: Silk taffeta skirt; sheer illusion tulle with beaded/sequined embroidery on bodice
Closure: Back zip with hook and eye
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minimal signs of wear
Lining: Bodice is sheer and unlined; skirt has inner lining and built-in tulle underlayer for volume

Occasions:

• Gala or formal benefit event
  
• Fashion week parties
  
• Dramatic cocktail or birthday look
  
• Couture prom alternative
  
• Museum wedding guest moment
  

Comparables:

• Victor Costa embellished gowns (The RealReal): $395–$645
  
• Oscar de la Renta vintage taffeta evening gowns: $700–$1,100
  
• Rare 80s Bill Blass or Mollie Parnis styles: $425–$900