This amazing vintage suit was made for Sonya Loew, who was the heiress to the Loews theater empire. She and her husband owned the Latin Quarter of Miami in the 1940s and 1950s. She is sitting next to Zsa Zsa Gabor in the photo.
The work on it looks Victorian but it could be a "gypsy" piece as well. It consists of a changeable silk body that is embroidered with heavy gold and sterling beaded soutache and accented with multi colored rhinestones and turquoise beads. It has a fitted bolero top with darts and an A-line mid calf skirt. Its trimmed with Victorian metallic lace. The bolero is lined in purple taffeta faille. The skirt is lined in heavy black cotton. It is possible this was a rework of a Victorian ballgown. It has endless design possibility.
Marked Size: None
Bust: up to 38
Armhole circumference: 20
Length: 16
Skirt
Waist: 26
Hips: 44
Length: 28 1/2
CONDITION: Very good no holes or stains however there is a slight wear to the outer layer of the fabric, and a tear in the top of the vest. In my opinion this just adds to the dustiness of the color but it is perfectly wearable.