1950s Sybil Connoly Pleated Gown

Some days I wake up in the morning and I know something fabulous is on the horizon. This magnificent dress must have been calling to me, because I had something completely different planned for my day, and instead, I walked into this treasure.

It is without the Sybil Connolly label, but there is no doubt in my mind it was made by her. Nobody else made dresses like this. There is a long, ribbon inside the neck that has very faint typing on it that reads "Christmas Holiday" Size 8 100% Linen, In bodice 100% Silk Lining, In skirt 100% Rayon, Made In Eire.

They say Sybil Connolly single handedly resurrected the failing Irish Linen industry with these creations. It is said that it takes 9 yards of this fine Linen to create 1 pleated yard. The pleats are all hand done, and are tight and sumptuous. They are so finely done, they are miles above anything the famous pleaters Fortuny or Miyake ever created. Connolly's pleats were described as being like the gills of a mushroom, and indeed, that is a very good comparison. If you have never seen a Connolly pleated garment, prepare to have your mind blown, and your heart stolen when it arrives in your home.