40s Hayworth Evening Dress

40s Hayworth Evening Dress in black crepe by The House of Foxy

I didn’t have a little black dress for fancier evenings out at special events or the theatre, and though my wrap party and screening days are well behind me, I’m trying very hard to be an optimist. The Hayworth Evening Dress (named, of course, after goddess of the silver screen Rita Hayworth) was significantly reduced by The House of Foxy on my birthday, and I thought why not attempt to will a higher quality of life into my 30s with a dreamy 1940s crepe cocktail dress?

I’m a little self-conscious showing my arms at fancier occasions (what?) and would have felt less so in their 40s O-Hara dress, which is a similar style but features 3/4 length sleeves. Unfortunately, the O’Hara was not discounted and therefore twice the price of the Hayworth. I wasn’t that optimistic.

The dress features a waterfall sarong skirt, which is the first time I’ve worn something of this style. It’s fastened with a side zipper and keyhole button at the nape of the neck. It’s unlined, so I wear a black slip underneath to protect it from my underpinnings. The relaxed drape over the shoulders is gorgeous, and I love the neckline – it shows off Evelyn too which is always a nice bonus!

The fabric provides a little stretch if your measurements are a smidge over the recommended body measurements on their size chart. I am bang-on their recommended body measurements for a size 8 in this dress, give or take half an inch at the waist – because food – and the fit is good. It is a bit short on my long torso though, and the cut of the dress below the waist means it wants to sit lower on my hips and rear than it does. This creates gaping of excess fabric around my lower back. Dresses and trousers not accommodating my long torso and height is a common problem for me, and aside from this the fit is perfect. It’s a beautiful, sophisticated dress, and I’m sure it will come in handy for the odd night out – but perhaps I’ll wear a coat or jacket to hide the gaping fabric across my lower back.

Currently (Oct 2021), there aren’t many Hayworths available on HoF, so if your heart is set on this specific design I’d recommend having a look at the House of Foxy buy swap sell groups listed in this blog post for all the pre-loved goodies from fellow vintage dames!

Explore my 40s Hayworth Evening Dress Style Gallery: