This striking 1940s authentic rayon jersey dress channels the bold elegance of iconic mid-century American design, drawing clear inspiration from Gilbert Adrian’s legendary “Firebird” dress. With its sweeping, colorful feather-like print on a cream background, sculptural silhouette, and subtle keyhole neckline, this piece evokes the same theatrical glamour that made Adrian a fashion legend. The dress hugs and moves with the body, thanks to its luxuriously soft rayon jersey fabric—making it as comfortable as it is breathtaking. A rare, museum-worthy garment for collectors and serious vintage lovers alike.
This gown also features a long attached sash at the neckline that can be worn hanging down as photographed. It can also be worn as a hood or around the neck.
Features:
Fabric: Rayon jersey with beautiful drape and stretch
Print: All-over feather/flame motif in vivid hues of orange, maroon, green, and yellow on a soft cream ground
Design details: High gathered neckline with keyhole cutout; cap sleeves and flattering side-ruching for a sculpted silhouette; and a slim, elongated shape reminiscent of Adrian’s signature draping
Inspiration: Echoes the drama and color play of Adrian’s famed “Firebird” dress (c. 1940s)
Garment Measurements:
Notes:
History: 1940s Rayon Jersey Fashion
In the 1940s, rayon jersey became a revolutionary fabric in women’s fashion, prized for its comfort, fluidity, and adaptability during a time when practicality and style had to coexist. Rayon jersey's soft, clinging quality made it ideal for the era’s elegant, figure-flattering drapes. Designers used gathers, ruching, and wraps to enhance the female form without restricting movement. Dresses made from rayon jersey could easily transition from daywear to eveningwear, with understated prints or darker solids for daytime and more dramatic shapes or embellishments for evening. Stars like Rita Hayworth and Lauren Bacall popularized the slinky, curve-skimming jersey look, bringing Old Hollywood sophistication into everyday wardrobes. Despite fabric limitations, 1940s women’s fashion retained a strong sense of polish. Rayon jersey provided a wash-and-wear solution that was durable yet graceful—perfect for working women, housewives, and socialites alike. In short, rayon jersey fashion of the 1940s captured the spirit of resilience and refinement, offering women a way to feel both comfortable and elegant during a decade of profound social change.
This striking 1940s authentic rayon jersey dress channels the bold elegance of iconic mid-century American design, drawing clear inspiration from Gilbert Adrian’s legendary “Firebird” dress. With its sweeping, colorful feather-like print on a cream background, sculptural silhouette, and subtle keyhole neckline, this piece evokes the same theatrical glamour that made Adrian a fashion legend. The dress hugs and moves with the body, thanks to its luxuriously soft rayon jersey fabric—making it as comfortable as it is breathtaking. A rare, museum-worthy garment for collectors and serious vintage lovers alike.
This gown also features a long attached sash at the neckline that can be worn hanging down as photographed. It can also be worn as a hood or around the neck.
Features:
Fabric: Rayon jersey with beautiful drape and stretch
Print: All-over feather/flame motif in vivid hues of orange, maroon, green, and yellow on a soft cream ground
Design details: High gathered neckline with keyhole cutout; cap sleeves and flattering side-ruching for a sculpted silhouette; and a slim, elongated shape reminiscent of Adrian’s signature draping
Inspiration: Echoes the drama and color play of Adrian’s famed “Firebird” dress (c. 1940s)
Garment Measurements:
Notes:
History: 1940s Rayon Jersey Fashion
In the 1940s, rayon jersey became a revolutionary fabric in women’s fashion, prized for its comfort, fluidity, and adaptability during a time when practicality and style had to coexist. Rayon jersey's soft, clinging quality made it ideal for the era’s elegant, figure-flattering drapes. Designers used gathers, ruching, and wraps to enhance the female form without restricting movement. Dresses made from rayon jersey could easily transition from daywear to eveningwear, with understated prints or darker solids for daytime and more dramatic shapes or embellishments for evening. Stars like Rita Hayworth and Lauren Bacall popularized the slinky, curve-skimming jersey look, bringing Old Hollywood sophistication into everyday wardrobes. Despite fabric limitations, 1940s women’s fashion retained a strong sense of polish. Rayon jersey provided a wash-and-wear solution that was durable yet graceful—perfect for working women, housewives, and socialites alike. In short, rayon jersey fashion of the 1940s captured the spirit of resilience and refinement, offering women a way to feel both comfortable and elegant during a decade of profound social change.
Image 1 of 12
Image 2 of 12
Image 3 of 12
Image 4 of 12
Image 5 of 12
Image 6 of 12
Image 7 of 12
Image 8 of 12
Image 9 of 12
Image 10 of 12
Image 11 of 12
Image 12 of 12