Rayon Jersey Sequined Dress (c. 1940s)

$285.00

This captivating 1940s rayon jersey dress is a true gem of mid-century fashion. With its rich, swirling floral print and flattering draped silhouette, it strikes the perfect balance between bold elegance and easy wearability. The supple rayon jersey fabric molds gently to the body, offering both comfort and glamour. Finished with a gathered hip and a vivid red belt for a cinched waist, this piece channels timeless femininity with an artful edge — ideal for vintage lovers or collectors of era-defining fashion.

Features:

  • Distinctive feature: A beautiful panel that is draped in three loops and adorned with gorgeous iridescent sequins

  • Material: Soft and stretchy rayon jersey

  • Print: Dramatic floral pattern in warm tones of rust, cream, and taupe on a deep brown background

  • Silhouette: V-neckline with gathered hip detailing and draped skirt

  • Sleeves: Short sleeves with subtle puff at the shoulder

Garment Measurements:

  • Bust: 36-42 inches

  • Waist: 31-34 inches

  • Hips: 36-40 inches

  • Sleeve length: 7.75 inches

  • Dress length: 45.5 inches

Fit: M/L/XL

Notes:

  • The belt is a styling suggestion and not included in this sale

  • This garment has been gently cleaned and is ready to wear

  • There are some small areas where some general discoloration is noted upon very close inspection but is not notable when worn, it is in excellent vintage condition

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 captivating 1940s rayon jersey dress is a true gem of mid-century fashion. With its rich, swirling floral print and flattering draped silhouette, it strikes the perfect balance between bold elegance and easy wearability. The supple rayon jersey fabric molds gently to the body, offering both comfort and glamour. Finished with a gathered hip and a vivid red belt for a cinched waist, this piece channels timeless femininity with an artful edge — ideal for vintage lovers or collectors of era-defining fashion.

Features:

  • Distinctive feature: A beautiful panel that is draped in three loops and adorned with gorgeous iridescent sequins

  • Material: Soft and stretchy rayon jersey

  • Print: Dramatic floral pattern in warm tones of rust, cream, and taupe on a deep brown background

  • Silhouette: V-neckline with gathered hip detailing and draped skirt

  • Sleeves: Short sleeves with subtle puff at the shoulder

Garment Measurements:

  • Bust: 36-42 inches

  • Waist: 31-34 inches

  • Hips: 36-40 inches

  • Sleeve length: 7.75 inches

  • Dress length: 45.5 inches

Fit: M/L/XL

Notes:

  • The belt is a styling suggestion and not included in this sale

  • This garment has been gently cleaned and is ready to wear

  • There are some small areas where some general discoloration is noted upon very close inspection but is not notable when worn, it is in excellent vintage condition

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.