Youseef Rizkallah joined the Malcolm Starr label in 1969 and remained as the head designer until 1975. The years that Youssef headed the line are among some of my favourites. While at Malcom Starr the piece that he designed pieces had  both his name and the Malcolm Starr International name on the label. Rizkallah was born in Egypt and studied at the Ecole de dessin appliqué and the Ecole des arts decoratifs in Paris. His designs seem to combine that sense of couture drama and cut that he learned while in Paris with the color and vividness of his homeland. This is the second time I have had this dress in the shop. The first time was an all gold and blue version and I am very happy to have this red and gold version this time.

This stunning dress is one of my favourite Malcolm Starr designs. In general I love the Rizkallah years. They have lots of drama and impact and this dress is a gorgeous example of his work. The fabric is gorgeous. A heavy dose of gold metallic thread covers an underlying pattern in corals and red, all on an light silk brocade feeling fabric. The effect is amazing. It is almost like wearing a piece covered in gold leaf. The dress at first glance looks substantial but in reality it is actually shockingly light in weight. It is just heavy enough to hold the shape and volume you see but it is so easy to wear. The bodice skims over the torso and is cut to be a little more fitted. The sleeves are capped and the waist line is set higher up to sit just under the bust. The front neckline is notched and plunges down to meet the band under the bust. Around the neck, the waist and at the end of each sleeve is a detailing of gold braid that has rhinestones set all along its length. I love the flat bow that sits just under the bust made from that same gold and rhinestone cording. The skirt cascades to the floor, widening out as it nears the hem, and I love the fullness of it. Pockets sit on each hip. The silk used is very lightweight and the fabric really holds the shape of the skirt beautifully. I love that it is lined in a soft coral silk. That unexpected flash of colour is spectacular against the gold. It is just a beautiful dress. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a coral silk and closes with a painted back metal zipper. The inner skirt lining is finished with a wide band of dressmakers horse hair at the hem to help support and keep the shape of the skirt over it. Hand finished. The zipper will open easily if the sides are pulled apart but it stays up once zipped.

Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 11" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 42.5" from waist to hem with 2.5" turned under the hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3746

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.