RARE! Vintage Linda Allard Ellen Tracy black beaded cardigan

NOTE: some photos lightened to show detail Vintage Linda Allard for Ellen Tracy black beaded cardigan This was purchased in the late 90s when Linda Allard Ellen Tracy was an expensive line made with fine fabrics and attention to detail. The cardigan is made of a black mohair-blend open knit* that has a lacy, crochet effect, with literally thousands of tiny, tube-shaped black beads hand-sewn into the yarn. (*I think it's called a Raschel knit) Originally came with a matching camisole (that I accidentally shrunk and gave to charity); together they cost me $1000 (about $1675 with inflation). The "original price" of the cardigan is based on 65% of the cost for the set, in today's currency. Versatile: wear over a cocktail dress for evening or over a pair of jeans for day Size S: Measurements are taken flat and unstretched: Shoulder width: 15" Back width: 17" Length from shoulder: 18.25" Sleeve length: 23" * Ellen Tracy was founded in 1949 by Herbert Gallen, a juniors manufacturer. In 1962 he hired Linda Allard, who moved the company toward the new career women of the 1970s and became known for high-quality fabrics and impeccable tailoring. * In 1984 Linda’s name was added to the label. The company was hugely successful, hiring many of the 80s supermodels (like Cindy Crawford and Linda Seymour) to star in its ad campaigns. * The firm was sold to Liz Claiborne in 2003; Allard retired and removed her name from the label. Her archives are housed at Kent State University Museum