1960s Bill Blass Navy Plaid Twill Suit

As much as we covet vintage Yves St. Laurent and Chanel, when it comes to American designers of that time, the designs Bill Blass was putting out for Maurice Rentner are unsurpassed.  Blass had a long and very illustrious career, first sketching for the sportswear firm David Crystal.  Then when he returned from World War II, Blass worked for Anne Klein, then for the ready-to-wear firm, Anna Miller Company.  In 1959 Blass took over as head designer when Miller retired, then stayed on when her brother Maurice Rentner merged their companies.  We imagine that Bill Blass was probably never one to compromise anything, much less his clothing designs. And talk about style longevity - this suit is absolutely timeless! A subtle graphic and loosely patterned plaid of white and tan on a navy background, in a weighty cotton twill fabric, makes this suit perfect for nearly year-round wear.  The jacket is single breasted with slanted welt pockets at the hip and a split cuff sleeve. The A-line skirt has  modified kilt styling with a flat front and a deep pleat to the left of center in front, and closes with a zipper and hook closure on the left.  The skirt is lined in navy cotton faille, the jacket is lined in beige silk.  Bust measures 38", waist 36"; hip 40";  shoulder 16"; sleeve 21.5", length 22". Skirt waist measures 29", length is 23". Both pieces are in excellent condition. $295