Canary yellow jumpsuit worn by Ella Fitzgerald

Canary yellow crepe weave jumpsuit. The jumpsuit has a long sleeved bodice with a high collar, which has a 'V' shaped opening (some 16cms in length) at the centre front. A pleated crepe waistband, with a central bow, adds definition at the waist. From this point to the hem the trousers widen out into extremely wide flares which are over 100cms wide at their maximum extent.

The majority of the jumpsuit is formed from a synthetic crepe fabric, but the sleeves are formed from a translucent gauze style fabric which has been woven with velour style circular motifs. The sleeves fit relatively closely to the arm, but there is a short 'V' shaped vent at the wrist.

The bodice is not lined but the crepe trousers feature polyester[?] inner trousers, shaped to follow the line of the jumpsuit, but with slightly narrower flares at the base. Cream, semi-circular dress shields have been safety pinned into place at the interior of the sleeveheads.

The jumpsuit fastens at the centre back with a concealed metal zip. This zip (about 62cms in length) runs from the centre back of the collar to the lower back area. There is a further pair of metal hook and thread loop fastenings at the centre back of the collar.

A maker's label with a cream ground and black woven text is present at the interior of the neckline. This reads: 'Don Loper/Beverley Hills.'

Vivid yellow jumpsuit designed for the singer, Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996) by American costume and necktie designer Don Loper, circa late 1960s or early 1970s.

S.38-2018