1960s Bessi Vivid Tropical Colors Printed Silk Twill Dress w Belt designer-biba Reference photo: Christy Turlington

Reference photo: Christy Turlington

the effect of the gold thread & silver metallic thread worked through the black backdrop is breathtaking

A panel draped over on hip and another on the opposite side wraps over the shoulder in soft folds

He designed a gown called the "Eloise" that year that has a similar cut and apron technique used in the skirt

1960s Bessi Vivid Tropical Colors Printed Silk Twill Dress w Belt designer-biba Reference photo: Christy TurlingtonThe Bessi company was launched in 1950 but it was not until 1968 that it started producing the printed pieces that the label is now associated with. Like Pucci he signed all his prints and designed them himself. In terms of style, construction and quality his dresses were often on par with Pucci and Leonard, especially the ones from the late sixties to mid seventies. This one is made out of a fine silk twill which holds color beautifully and is why we