Early Career Richard Tyler Couture Purple and Black Gown at 1stDibs Early Career Richard Tyler Couture Purple and Black Gown at 1stDibs Richard Tyler Dresses Richard Tyler Couture Formal Satin Gown Wsash 1990s Richard Tyler Couture Paris Print Size 8 10 Paris Print Vintage 1990s Richard Tyler Couture strapless ballgown at 1stDibs. Richard Tyler had a small shop in Melbourne at the age of 18 and by the 1970s was attracting the ye of touring rock groups. In 1978 he dressed Rod Stewart for his Blondes Have More Fun tour. He specialized in costumes for the rock star set through the 80s but eventually settled in Los Angeles, opening his first showroom in 1988. The Richard Tyler Couture line was his main, high end line and pieces retailed for thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. He was known for his impeccable tailoring and finishes and at the time employed some of the best tailor and seamstresses in the business. This dress is almost too scandalous to wear. The base fabric is a mix of metal mesh, backed in a black fabric so it is not see through. Onto that are rows of glass beads, hand sewn into place and set in vertical rows with some rows having a angular design. The front drapes over the bust and ties behind the neck. The cut leaves the sides and back completely bare. the waist at the back is cut to drape as well and dips quite low. The skirt falls to the floor in a sleek column of beads and metal mesh. It is slit up one side extremely high which only adds to its overt sexuality. It is super model long and insanely fabulous. Really an outstanding piece. Excellent condition Fully lined in black and ties at the back of the neck with a black cord looped through the neckline. It closes at the low back with a hidden set zipper. Perhaps the occasional missing beads here and there but nothing that deters or should be pointed out specifically. The cut will allow for a variety of sizes with the waist sitting lower on a smaller girl Bust: open Low sitting waist: to 14" flat across from side seam to side seam Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam Bodice: 16" from natural neck to waist but will drape once on Skirt: 48" from waist to hem Slit: 33" from hem to top of slit Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS MED Item# DD2937 This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.