.. This dress has the classic Nina Ricci look, though I believe it was designed by the great Gerard Pipart, who had worked with Balmain, Fath and Jean Patou before joining Ricci in the late 1960s.

..Beyond the social elite of the San Francisco Bay Area, the Gumps label doesn't ring bells... but we who are lucky enough to live here know that Gumps carries only the best. Though mostly known for thier imported home decor, they also sold some very wonderful "exotic" fashions.

.. This remarkable item was obviously made for the American customer. The silk is luscious, top quality, printed in jet black with a garden of fresh flowers and a divine border decoration. The robe is lined in ruby red silk. The robe has sexy side slits, and closes with a simple sash.