1960s Sleeveless Maineliner of Philadelphia White / Ivory Beaded Knit Shell Size Small

HIGHLIGHTS:
*1950s / 1960s from the Mainline of Philadelphia
*HUGE Rhinestones / Faux Pearls
*Silver & Gold Lurex Thread
*Like New Condition!

So chic and so versatile! Wear it with a skirt/slacks or under a suit. Sleeveless ivory crepe stretch shell / sweater in 100% Helenca Nylon. Collar of silver and gold metallic thread, lovely faux pearls, marquise cut clear rhinestones and round faceted gold rhinestones. Embellished neckline with back zipper. Armhole has a teardrop opening. So cute. Lightly banded at waistline. Marked "WPL 10784" on label.

This chic and versatile top packs such a punch and represents an important moment in US history--the return of nylon and other synthetic materials to non war-time use. There are also some interesting clues on its label. As best I can tell "Maineliner" was manufactured by Globe Knitwear on Arch Street in Philadelphia. Of course Philadelphia is renowned for its "Main Line" --the POSH residential neighborhood associated with the scions of industry. So I wonder if "Maineliner" was really meant to refer to the "Main Line", suggesting the luxury and wealth of that community. It definitely delivers! Finally, I found an ad in Life magazine that referred to "Helanca yarn--the fabric that made 'stretch socks' possible" which kinda cracked me up. Helanca Nylon is still in use today.

Brand/Designer: Maineliner/Globe Knitwear
Marked Size: Unmarked. (see dimensions)
**Please check the measurements provided below before purchasing. Vintage clothing sizes often fit much smaller than modern sizes.**
Dimensions (clothing is measured flat and unstretched):
* Bust: 15.5” (doubled = 31")
* Waist: 16" (doubled = 32")
* Hips: 16" (doubled = 32")
* Length: 24"
* Other: Sleeveless
Period/Year: 1950s/60s
Origin: Unmarked. Likely Made in USA (Philadelphia, PA)
Condition: Excellent. Unbelievable, really. No pulls or anything!
Color: White/Off white
Fabric/Material: 100% Nylon

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Disclaimers:
* Lipstick Girl Vintage (LGV) is a smoke-free, pet-friendly environment. Garments and other items are handled and stored in a pet-free, restricted area, however there is a potential for exposure. Due to the age of the items, LGV cannot guarantee against any previous contact with smoke or other allergens.
* All items are vintage and pre-owned. We disclose any flaws we find, however, it is possible that a flaw has been accidentally overlooked. We will offer a refund only if an item has been largely misrepresented.
* Please note that Lipstick Girl Vintage regularly sells items of historical significance, and, from time to time, some of these items might be considered controversial in nature. Lipstick Girl Vintage endeavors to offer these items for sale as sensitively as possible, by trying to balance our abhorrence for cruelty and respect for the important historic nature of many of these garments. What we wear, and how that has changed over time, is part of our story.