Two Ensembles and a Dress by Arthur McGee, 1970-80s

The Arthur McGee Collection can be found in Lots 1 – 18. The collection includes 45 garments and ensembles designed by Arthur McGee (1933-2019), and an archive of personal and business records. A true trailblazer in the fashion world, McGee was the first African American to run the design room of an established Seventh Avenue apparel company in New York City. He was a highly influential designer and has inspired generations of designers through his talent and mentorship. This collection honors the legacy of Arthur McGee and exemplifies the elegant and innovative designs for which he became renowned. The net proceeds of the collection’s sale will benefit a scholarship for emerging fashion designers from Arthur McGee Legacy, LLC.

This lot contains two ensembles and a dress.

THE FIRST
Top and skirt of thin tan cotton or cotton-blend. Top is cut with long sleeves and a double ruffle at the center front. The flared skirt is gathered into a wide waistband and closes with a zipper.
Label: Me and McGee for Alba

Size Label: Not labeled

Approximate Measurements:
TOP

Shoulders: 17.5"

Chest: 37.75"

Waist: 37.5"

Hips: 38.75"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 24.25"

Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 36.5"

SKIRT
Waist: 28.5"
Hips: 37.5"
Length (side waist band to hem): 32.25"

THE SECOND
Long sleeve dress in a silk or silk-blend with a squiggle-line print. The dress closes at the center back neck with a single large button.
Label: Me and McGee for Alba

Size Label: Not labeled

Approximate Measurements:

Shoulders: 18.5"

Chest: 40.25"

Waist: 40"

Hips: 40.25"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 34.75"

Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 26.5"

THE THIRD
Top and shorts of a similar material and print, but of a slightly different fabric and color. The top is a pull-over style with long sleeves and a fold collar. The shirt features four figures. The short shorts are a wrap style that tie at the center front and back.
Label: Me and McGee for Alba

Size Label: Not labeled

Approximate Measurements:
TOP

Shoulders: 16"

Chest: 40.75"

Waist: 40"

Hips: 40.5"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 29.25"

Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 33.25"

SHORTS
Rise: 14.75"
Measurement at waist is adjustable with ties.

Collection courtesy of Arthur McGee Legacy, LLC, Johnetta Shearer and Maxine Gordon, Co-Directors

This lot is located in Chicago.

Condition:

THE FIRST
The overall condition is good. There are minor soiled spots on the center front mid way down.

THE SECOND
The overall condition is good with only minor piling and slubbing throughout due to the nature of the textile.

THE THIRD
The overall condition is very good with no visible issues.

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 [email protected] 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 Freeman's 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 Freeman's 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 Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

To request further details about this lot, please email [email protected]

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Spring Fashion & Accessories

Two Ensembles and a Dress by Arthur McGee, 1970-80s

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