Frilly Frocks From the Past

Shabby Chic designer Rachel Ashwell — famous for her whimsical collection of bed linens and upholstery — has long scoured flea markets and second-hand shops for mid-century prom dresses. After years of fielding questions about the 70 texture-rich gowns displayed in her home and stores, Ms. Ashwell recently decided to sell some of the frilly designs at her New York boutique (83 Wooster St., between Broome and Spring streets, 212-274-9842).

The sale, featuring 30 custom-made designs from the 1940s and '50s, begins Thursday and runs through the end of December. Each gown costs $1,200.

These days, high school girls often choose short, form-fitting prom dresses in dark hues. Time was, voluminous gowns — constructed from lace, taffeta, tulle — were popular. Most of the designs in Ms. Ashwell's prom dress collection are strapless, cinched with ribbons, sashes, and floral accents at the waist, and have full tiered skirts. The color palette comprises pastels, jewel tones, and muted, off-white shades.

Ms. Ashwell and her design team have restored the dresses, and added to the already ornate designs silk trims, brooches, and vintage flowers.

Since April, the vintage collection, known as "Rachel's Traveling Girls" has been on view at the designer's nine retail shops — and the tour culminates with the forthcoming sale. "We're coming up on holiday time, when there are so many parties in New York," spokeswoman Renee Borsack, said. "It's a perfect time, and a perfect city. Women in New York love to dress up."