Fashion Extremes of 1949

These black and white fashion shots were taken by LIFE photographer Nina Leen in New York City show some of the fashion extremes in 1949.

Model wearing sensational taffeta gown by Adrian called "After Theatre" featuring batwings, each 22 inches fr. the spine, which make up its show-stopping bustle.

Shari Herbert, one of New York's top models, wearing tight grape taffeta gown by Schiapparelli featuring a separate flesh-colored bra that drips sequins & pearls.

Model wearing mother-of-pearl satin gown by Balmain featuring three huge roses tucked in a shell-shaped waist.

Shari Herbert, one of New York/s top models, wearing tight grape taffeta gown by Schiapparelli featuring a separate flesh-colored bra that drips sequins & pearls.

Model wearing checkered, deep-cuffed fleece coat which is almost all sleeve as it stretches 52-inches fr. wrist to wrist in one continuous piece, designed by PaulineTrigere.

Model wearing rose-decked sheath topped by the fullest chiffon skirt which spreads out from a 22-inch waist to a 40-inch circumference on this gorgeous gown by Traina-Norell.

Model wearing formal navy velvet gown by Dior featuring short skirt w. large bow-topped, scissor panel in satin w. a camisole top.

Sixteen-inch feather antennae on velour cap designed by Hattie Carnegie worn by model is amusing outdoors but a menace in crowded elevators.

Model wearing the longest gloves designed by Hattie Carnegie which almost cover the shoulders.

Model wearing long 3 1/4- inch faux diamond earings (Bergdorf-Goodman).

Naked sandal by Julianelli has sparse velvet straps that give it a barefoot look.

(Photos via LIFE photo archives)