Lot 7
Two Irene Skirt Suits, 1950s
Sale 1076 - Fall Fashion & Accessories
Sep 16, 2022 10:00AM CT
Online / Chicago
Estimate
$300 - $500

Sold for $219

Sold prices are inclusive of Buyer’s Premium
Lot Description
Two Irene Skirt Suits, 1950s

This lot includes two Irene Lentz skirt suits.

Irene Lentz, known as Irene, cultivated a prolific career in film and fashion between 1921 and her death in 1962. Beginning as an actress, Irene came to rely on sewing skills that earned her contracts with Los Angeles department stores. She eventually designed film costumes for Hollywood production studios, culminating in her role as head of art direction at MGM. The suits in this lot were retailed for Halle Bros. Co., a Cleveland-based department store chain, and exemplify hallmarks of her designs. They are tailored to create a narrow waist, austere and severe, but softened by sloping collars and carefully placed tucks to contour feminine curves.

THE FIRST
Black woven single breasted peplum jacket with notched lapel, set in long sleeves, and front button closure; paired with a matching midi skirt with top stitch detail.
Label: Irene
Retail Label: The Halle Bros. Co.
Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:
JACKET
Shoulders: 14.25"
Chest: 31.5"
Waist: 27.5"
Hips: 33.75"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 22.25"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 30.25"

SKIRT
Waist: 26.5"
Hips: 33.75"
Length (side waist band to hem): 29.5"

THE SECOND
Grey wool single breasted peplum jacket with notched lapels, set in long sleeves, two faux flap pockets, folded sleeve cuffs, and front button closure; paired with a cream silk vest with high collar, front single welt pocket, and front button and half belt closure; paired with matching grey wool midi skirt.
Jacket, Vest, and Skirt 
Label: Irene
Retail Label: The Halle Bros. Co. 
Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:
JACKET
Shoulders: 15.25"
Chest: 32.75"
Waist: 27.25"
Hips: 32.75"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 24.25"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 29.25"

VEST
Shoulders: 14.25"
Chest: 32"
Waist: 26.25"
Hips: 26.5"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 20.5"

SKIRT
Waist: 25"
Hips: 30.75"
Length (side waist band to hem): 27.5"
Property from the Collection of the North Coast College
Condition Report
Condition:

THE FIRST
The overall condition is good. On the jacket, there is soiling in the lining around the armscyes and a small spot in the center back of the lining by the hem. On the vest, there are a few dark spots on the front right panel along the neckline, on the center back of the collar, and on the back right panel besides the armhole. There is also soiling around the armholes. The skirt has no visible marks.

THE SECOND
The overall condition is good. On the jacket, there are soiled spots in the lining around the armscyes and the skirt has no visible marks except frayed seams on the interior.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email us with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Hindman website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Hindman.

Please email couturecr@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.