St John knits are a classic for good reason. Marie Gray was doing quiet luxury before the term became ubiquitous as a result of Succession. I believe this dress dates to the 80s, probably late 80s. There is evidence of shoulder pad removal inside. I took a few photos with pads tucked in to show the dress with and without. 
The bodice is styled with square cut batwing sleeves and a contrasting banded collar. The wide waist section is accented by a pair of black enameled brass ringed buttons with a brass chain that connect them - the chain attaches with small hooks, which means it is easy to remove if you don't care for the slight aura of military swagger. The skirt is straight with a bit of wiggle - hem is a bit narrower than the hips.

SIZE: Labeled size 8. Measurements taken with the dress laying flat; i.e., without stretching

FABRIC/COLORS: Tomato red and inky black in a stockinette knit weave, It has been awhile since I had a St John in my stock, but this looks and feels like the Santana knit that I remember. No fabric content tag but the proprietary blend for Santana knits is 80/20 wool/rayon. Tag does say dry clean only, which is also typical for Santana Knits

TAGS: St. John for Saks Fifth Avenue, made in USA

CLOSURES: Nylon zipper the length of the back bodice with hook & eye at neck

CONDITION: There was a very small hole in the knit of the upper front skirt just below the front chain - see closeup. I think the chain hook may have gotten caught there at some point. I added a few stitches from the back to stabilize it - see closeup #2 after repair.