u/SGWinLA

Hi -- I've posted here before. I do the vintage section of a charity thrift shop in L.A. We got in this dress, which I think is late 50s/early 60s. Metal back zipper, tag attached to zipper cut off, lace hem ribbon. But on the back (last photo) is this weird thing -- there are two black cords attached to the shoulder lining which are connected by this small metal doohickey -- like what you'd see on a sweatshirt or something to loosen or tighten the neck cord. I've never seen anything like this before. The problem is, it pulls the lining out past the neckline and ruins the line of the sleeves. Does anyone know what this is?

Everyone's been so helpful with the Mystery Dress, I thought I'd post pics of another one we got in, although this one has a label. It's so cute! If something needs a minor repair, I'll bring it home, but I found that in addition to a ripped shoulder seam, it also has several pinholes, so we'll just be selling it As Is.

I do the vintage clothing section of a charity thrift store. I try to include the era on the price tags. We got in this dress, which I first assumed was 60s, but now I'm not sure. The hem doesn't look machine stitched, but the seams do, and I've not seen many finished seams in 60s clothing. The zipper is metal, but again, doesn't look like the ones I'm used to. No tag, except for the size. I'm thinking this is something newer that is just styled to look 'mod'. Thank you for any advice you may have!

EDIT: Thank you so much for all the input so far! I can't figure out how to add more pics, so I'll put them in comments about the questions -- back of zipper and waist measurement.