Saramae lingerie was a mid-priced yet very elegant lingerie brand that was sold in high end department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue from the 1940s through the early 1980s. The Saramae lingerie brand was famous for quality craftsmanship and careful attention to details, and their line of half slips were very beautiful. Highly sought after by collectors now, Saramae’s half slips were layered in delicate lace, often with fancy embroidery and designs.
Since these half slips were so well made, and such elaborate detail went into their design, they can actually be worn as skirts today, which many vintage enthusiasts do. Saramae brand half slips can be found for sale on auction sites at varying prices (usually $30+), but be sure to check your local thrift stores as often times these slips simply get tossed out, due to the fact that most people who are trying to get rid of them often do not realize their value and simply view them as old lingerie to be discarded. They’re very, very rare to find so if you find one in Grandma’s closet, don’t throw it out!
The company was owned by the Lewis S. Kaufman family and was based on Madison Avenue in New York City. In the 1980s, the lines were designed by Bert Yelin, who was also the company’s president.
Bette Davis Jezebel 1938 Giclee Print