Object of desire: Norman Norell Little Black Dresses

1960s Norman Norell LBD $1000 from Katy Kane (via 1stdibs.com)
Apart from its utter chic, and the fact that Normal Norell can be considered the American equivalent of the French Golden Age couturiers, the hidden detailing on this classic piece make it worth the investment. The belt, which appears to be a decorative element with two large black buttons, actually "disappears" inside the dress, where it closes with hooks and eyes at the center back, just under the zipper. This is not the only hidden design element in this dress, the low gathered skirt conceals a narrow fitted skirt underneath with a kick pleat at the center back.



1950s Norman Norell for LBD $950 from Katy Kane (via 1stdibs.com)
A narrow satin band at the hemline is used to create the pouf or bubble look of the skirt at its hem.The vendor describes it as a pouf dress, but it is more accurate to describe it as Watteau backed.

More on Norman Norell here