1990s ALL ABOUT EVE Talbot Runhof Pinstripe Black Wool Feathered Evening Dress

Never going too far, but always going far enough: this is the philosophy of Johnny Talbot and Adrian Runhof. This motto is also reflected in the collections of the designer duo. Each creation has special features and details that are nevertheless always fitting for a grand entrance. Precious fabrics are combined with exquisite couture techniques. Each evening dress from Talbot Runhof is unique. Whether classic fabrics or innovative high-tech fibres, Johnny Talbot and Adrian Runhof are always on the lookout for new textile challenges.

Here we have a stunning early 1990s strapless evening dress from the All About Eve Couture label. The designers combined the utmost simplicity in this gown and used the pinstriped black fabric and – above all – the feather accentuated bust to create the statement. It is such an amazing contrast between the masculine fabric and the feminine feathers!

The dress is cut straight with an alluring high center back slit. The strapless bodice features a built in inner corset to keep it in place. It is boned and finishes a bit above the hip. The bust is highlighted by that flamboyant line of fabulous, glossy and partly iridescent feathers in autumn colours such as russet, cinnamon and moss-green. This feather line is actually a separate piece on its own that snaps into place and I have provided photos of the dress with and without it. I love how the longer feathers flatter the neckline and seesaw when you move. Very well constructed with hand finishes throughout.

When I met Johnny Talbot few months ago in his boutique in Munich I showed him the pictures of this dress and he remembered it at first sight. Talking about this and that and about the fabulous feathers he told me that they are from the mother of his design partner Adrian Runhof – who was in the fashion design business as well – and date back to the 1970s.

The dress is lined with a black silky rayon and closes with a back hidden set zipper. Labeled “ALL ABOUT EVE COUTURE”.

Excellent vintage condition. All feathers are full and glossy.

Bust: 90 cm – 35.43″ (measured across from side seam to side seam with ca. a B cup room built in)
Waist: 77 cm – 30.34″ (measured inside the corset)
Hips: 100 cm –39.37″ (measured inside the corset)
Length: 134 cm – 52.76″ (measured from top of bodice to hem)
Slit: 66 cm – 26″ (from hem up)

Measurements are taken flat across from side seam to side seam and then DOUBLED for bust, waist and hips.

Approximate Modern Size: M