80s Rare Unworn Tunic And Pants Leisure / Hostess Set By Mary McFadden

The set is a rare example of Mary McFadden's leisure/hostess wear that is not a nightgown or caftan. It comprises a very long, oversized tunic top and straight-legged pants with an elastic waist. As you can see in the photos, the striped top has very long slits on the sides and coordinates with the paisley pants that complete the set. I had a difficult time dating the outfit, but there was one clue in particular that narrowed it down, that beeing the Sakowitz label. Sakowitz was a small chain of very upscale department stores based in Houton, much like the early Dallas-based Neiman Marcus was before it became a national chain. However, Sakowitz did not survive the bust in the oil business in the mid-1980s and filed for bankruptcy in 1985, after which it suffered the vicissitudes of re-organization and foreign investors until it closed its remaining stores in 1990. So because of this history and the fact that the set has a fabric label (not required until the mid-1980s) this set is probably from around 1985. Another reason that dating the set was tricky is that it is in superb condition and appears never to have been worn. The fabric looks and feels like silk crepe de chine but is labeled polyester, so it will be very easy to care for. The set is also labeled "Petite," but the measurements indicate it could fit either petite or regular sizes in the Medium, or 6-8, size range. Please refer to the measurements for the best guidance regarding actual size.*

TOP MEASUREMENTS
- Shoulder width is 19.5"
- Chest is 40"
- Waist, hips, etc., also 40"
- Length is 37" down center back.

PANT MEASUREMENTS
- Waist is 24" unstretched to 32" max
- Hips are 39"
- Rise is 14" excluding waistband.
- Inseam is 31"
- Width of bottom leg opening is 8.5"
- Length of side seam is 41"

CONDITION
Excellent condition with no apparent flaws. Appear to be unworn.