One of Princess Diana’s favorite designers was Bellville Sassoon who started in 1953  by Belinda Bellville. In 1971 David Sassoon became a partner and creative director. This dress with its wide white satin sailor collar and cuffs has a 1920s design feel. The majority of the dress is black silk velvet with 2 rows of gold ribbon buttons with faux pearl centers. The last 6 inches is accordion pleated silk. The bow at the collar is also silk taffeta. The design is A line.  The dress dates from the late because it has Lorca Mullany name on it, she took over as designer in 1987.  Measures as follows Shoulders 15, Armhole 8, Sleeves 21, Bust 36, Waist up to 28, Hips up to 40. length 49 good to excellent condition there is wear to the velvet on the inner sleeve where the elbow bends  and also wear at the bottom left of the velvet in the back. A great dress for a collection for they are less seen in market and David Sassoon just died.