Incredible Fall 1971 Andre Courreges Black Dress w Open Back Detailed w Straps & Bows

This is a remarkable example of Courreges and the work that Andre was doing during that time period. I know we often associate his work with very mod and short pieces but he also did many dramatic and long pieces like this. We have had a dress from the collection before this in the shop before and we were happy to find a version of this one that was photoed for Vogue that spring and a runway shot with close versions as well. It is a fantastically chic and beautiful dress with just the right amount of sexiness to it with that open back.

Many of his pieces are a play on volume and proportion and this dress is an amazing example of that. It is a dramatic piece that has a more bare and fitted feel through the upper bodice and back and then flares and widens out very dramatically to the hem. The fabric is light in weight but has enough weight to it to hold the shape.  It has enough structure to it that it holds the intended shape and volume while feeling like you are barely wearing anything. The seaming is superb and the simplicity of it is part of what makes the design so good. All of the seams are vertically set on the dress to help add to the feeling of length and the bust is cleverly draped to add shape. I love the little faux pocket tops that sit just above the hip on each side. The neckline is sits straight across and high on the chest and the sides curve down for the arms. Straps hook into place at the front and curve down to meet the back. The back is scooped open  and then there are 4 straps that extend out from each side and tie in little bows down the centre. A final little bow sits at the very base of the curve of the back. Crazy good.  Extremely collectible and rare. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a deep burgundy silky rayon and it closes with a hidden set side zipper. One strap hooks into place at the front with a hidden hook and eye. Tagged a Courreges A.

Bust: 17.5" flat across the back from seam to seam
Waist: to 14.5" flat across from seam to seam
Hips: to 21" flat across from seam to seam
Total length: 56" from shoulder to hem w approx 2" turned under the hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD4593

Reference Photos: (1) Models in Courreges, photographed by Bugat, Vogue Paris, September 1971.  /  (2) Courreges Fashion Show, 1971.

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