I love this little hat by Christian Dior. It is just wonderfully made and so unique. I have seen a couple of version of this over the years in duller colors - a taupe and a olive green, but this is the only one I have come across in this wonderful red color. The brim is wide and bold with a touch a a slant that you can play with once it is on. I love the soft, 'fuzzy' chenille felt choice of fabric that gives it a fur feel. It has a wonderful patchwork of ribbons hand placed around the crown and onto the brim. The band is a pale dusty rose grosgrain ribbon that extend out the back into two ties that are each finished with the same ribbon. It is then top stitched over the ribbons all the way around the crown and brim. The hat is soft but with a shaped crown and not so soft that it is floppy. It feels very on point and modern. Excellent condition

Interior matched red grosgrain ribbon. 21" inner circumference

Item# A370

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This is a beautiful black dress from the Christian Dior label that showcases the restraint and elegance that the best of the brand's work has always displayed. The main dress under the cape is cut in one long and lean line. This simple sheath silhouette make it feel even longer then it already is. Everything about the cut is done to lengthen the girl wearing it and give her one long and beautiful line. The inner dress has no true sleeves, instead there is a pleated overlay that is attached around the neckline and falls over the dress. There are slits open along the sides that you can slip your arm through. I am going to post some shots of this dress on my Instagram feed that will show the dress worn as shown on the dress form, belted and with my arms fully inside the overlay. Each way gives the dress a very distinctive look and feel. The panels are pleated and made of a light fine silk. This gives it a lot of movement as you move underneath. I love that the hem of the overlay is set along an angle that curves up at the center front down at the sides and back. The body of the dress follows the body underneath in a way that the fabric just skims over you from shoulder to hem. The skirt falls from there to the floor in a column with a back slit to give you ease of walking and flash a little leg. It is simple and refined and has not a single unnecessary seam. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a black silk and closes with a zipper at the back. Appears to have never been worn, or worn very little. Hand finishes. If you prefer to wear the top as a true cape over the arms, you could add hidden hooks or snaps to close the arm slits to make it more versatile. Tagged a US12, FR44

Bust: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 61" from shoulder to hem with a 23" slit up the center back from hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# DD3298

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This was sold to me as a Christian Dior but I have never been able to fully verify this with 100% accuracy. It's been priced for what it is and if it does turn out to be a verifiable Dior then you have gotten an amazing bargain. Regardless of its heritage it is an incredibly striking dress.

This dress is all bombshell. It has the feel of the Old Hollywood siren to it and one could easily imagine any of the big movie starlets of the day wearing this out as part of their glamorous lives. The fabric is a deep burnished gold lame that has a stitched effect running over it that gives it a quilted 3D feel but in a very abstract kind of way as opposed to any geometric pattern you would normally see with a quilting technique applied. It is very light in weight and feels like a wisp of air once on the body. It is cut for maximum attention. The top is set with two halter triangle tops that have that wide cut to them from this era. This lets the tops of each halter sit on the outer edges of the shoulders, emphasizing the cinched in waist. On an actual body you can cinch it in even tighter to create more of an hourglass shape. It plunges down to meet the wide sash that wraps and ties around you. The back plunges in the same fashion to leave a large expanse of your back bare. The partially attached ties that wrap around the waist are very long so you can really play with how you style them. Under that the skirt falls in a narrow pencil shape with a small vent at the back to allow for walking. It's gorgeous. Excellent condition

Fully lined in black silk and closes with a painted back zipper. Partially attached ties at the waist that very ling and wrap and tie. Pockets on each hip. Hand finishes

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15.5" from top of shoulder to waist
Skirt: 20" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# E669

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

This top is the last of the Haute Couture pieces that have come to me directly from the daughter of the Haute Couture client who would have ordered it from the atelier. It has not been on the market prior to this. She shopped primarily with Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior and unfortunately the label was removed at some point. This is the only piece that her mother did not document as to which house it came from. I am leaning more towards YSL as it bears a remarkable resemblance to this one, that one we previously sold from this same collection.

Regardless of which house it originated from, it is absolutely exquisite. The top is entirely hand made as the parameters of Haute Couture define. The silk chiffon used is of the finest possible grade and you can feel the difference at first touch. I love the extensive embroidery and bead work that covers the exterior. The level of workmanship is extraordinary and it is certainly the work of the Lesage ateliers. It forms an intricate pattern over the silk chiffon that completely covers the majority of the top and the sleeves. The very bottom portion of the top is left as just the silk so that it does not get ruined when you tuck it onto your skirt or trousers. At the back the zipper extends past the lower hem in the manner that Couture pieces were finished during this time period. I cannot go on enough about the fine workmanship and sheer time that this would have taken to create. It is an absolute work of art and a stunning example of Haute Couture during this time period. Excellent condition with one small note below

Backed in a nude silk chiffon and closes down the back with a hand set zipper that extends beyond the hem in the traditional Haute Couture manner. Entirely hand done. Note that there is a slight texture change to the silk under each arm with minor discoloration. There is no evidence of it on the exterior and it was priced with this taken into account.

It is always a privilege to have true Haute Couture pieces pass through the shop. Haute Couture is the very pinnacle of the fashion experience and I would hazard to say that vintage versions are even a little more special. You also get a lot for your money in many ways with vintage versions as the cost of current Haute Couture has skyrocketed.

Bust: 16.75" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 21.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# S876

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

This lovely little Christian Dior scarf is from the late 1970s, early 1980s, and it is very pretty. I love the mix of the stark black with that brilliant blue and the way the two colors are divided down the center. This give you a lovely effect once it is tied. It is made of a double layer of fine silk chiffon that has a slight texture to it. This fabric choice makes it extremely light and pliable so that you can easily tie it as you wish. Excellent condition

Christian Dior tag as shown. It is freshly cleaned and it looks to have been worn very little if at all.

Measures 45.5" x 17.5"

Item# A365

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

This belt would be from the Marc Bohan days of the Dior atelier. I love the wideness of it and how this allows you to really get a cinched in look if you wish. The belt is made of a slightly textured white leather with a simple slip buckle at the front that makes it super easy to adjust in size. Attached to the belt all the way around are 3D, raised round gold medallions that have an intricate design etched onto each of them. It looks to have been worn very little and has only a light patina to it from natural aging and minimal use. Excellent condition

33.5" x 2.5" and the buckle is 2.25" across. It will accommodate up to about 31" and if the buckle is perfectly centered between the medallions it is a 27" waist. Era appropriate logo stamp.

Item# A350

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

This set is from the same Haute Couture collection as the linen jacket I also have listed in the shop. It is also from the same private collection coming to me from the daughter of the original Couture client. The look for the 1981 season, according to the book, 'Dior, Catwalk' was easy, flowing styles .. "the dresses often have short puffed sleeves and are scattered with cheerful motifs....Bohan has created styles that not only uphold the honor of couture but can be worn comfortably as well"

The attention to detail shown in every stitch is breathtaking. It is entirely done by hand and the silks used are of the highest possible grade and are as fine and light as a feather. The top is done in a silk chiffon that has a ribbon finish to it that adds pretty texture. It floats over the torso for an easy fit. It is unlined, which makes it semi-transparent. It has a finish of pleats that run down the front for a pretty detail. This makes the floral pattern that covers the silk even more interesting as it peaks through and over the pleats. The sleeves are short and puffed as the collection was noted as having. The skirt is a neat pencil and falls in a column of perfectly cut silk. The same pretty floral pattern is continued over the silk of the skirt and it feels just a touch deeper in tone since the fabric there is opaque. The skirt wraps over itself and hooks & snaps to close. There are even pockets on each hip. It is truly a wonderful example of Couture during this time period and when you see it in person you will be astounded at the level of craftsmanship and care put into the construction. Excellent condition with one minor note below.

The skirt wraps and hooks and snaps to close. It is hand lined in an ivory silk. The bodice is unlined and closes down the front with the buttons and then snaps nearer to the bottom. You could move the hooks and snaps at the waist of the skirt to adjust the fit a bit up or down as required. There is one very faint spot on the tip of the collar of the top. I photoed it and you can review that photo after the label shot. The color in person is a pure ivory with no yellowing to the fabric - any you see in the photos is from the lighting only. It is completely made by hand as the parameters of Haute Couture dictates. Proper Haute Couture label present in the top. Numbered 13660

Top
Slightly inset shoulders: 13.5"
Bust-Hem: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 24" from top of bodice to waist

Skirt:
Waist: 12.25" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 24" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3194

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

The wonderful little piece merges a top with a jacket perfectly and is a beautiful example of Ferre's work during his time as Creative Director for Dior. The twin of this piece walked the runway and I have included the video of the piece in its debut as well as a still capturing it on the catwalk. The tag is numbered which for the boutique line label usually denotes a custom order or an order by an established client during this time period.

A cornerstone of Ferre's work was his ability to mix textures and fabrics so flawlessly that they created one seamless piece that you could not imagine being made any other way. Here he utilizes four distinct fabrications to make this gorgeous little jacket. The sleeves are cut to be very full and billow above the cuffs. On each cuff there is a filigree silver metal button, a signature of this particular collection. The sleeves are made from a fine silk organza and the execution of each is flawless. I particularly love how they are pleated across each upper shoulder. The back is a raw silk finished with a touch of sheen. The front is made of silk cord that is knotted and swirled. Finishing it off is waxed cord that is set as tassels all along the lower edge. It is remarkable, extremely well made and my client says that it was never worn. Excellent condition.

The front panels are lined in a silk chiffon and the back in a black silk. The sleeves are left unlined. It has no closures at the front. Each cuff buttons to close. The tag is numbered 49407

Sleeves: 24"
Slightly dropped shoulders: 16"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 15.5 " from neck to hem at the back, 20" at the front

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# S851

Reference Photos: From the Christian Dior S/S 1994 Runway Show Video (below).

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This wonderful little dress and jacket set bears the Christian Dior New London label, making it a beautiful and early example of the Dior labels history. This is from the Spring of 1961, an important year in Dior's history as this would have been Marc Bohan's first collection for the house. The collection was called 'The Slim Look', and was noted as being a 'simple, young and streamlined style - his modern take on the New Look'. You can see a striking similarity to the design in the examples shown here from the Haute Couture collection from that same year. This set is from the Modele Original line which would have been custom made based on the Haute Couture presentation and special ordered through Harrods in this case. It is numbered and was made with many of the same high standard finishes that the Haute Couture pieces incorporated.

Bohan's inspiration for Spring 1961 was the 1920s. He underplayed the bust and dropped the waistline. Skirts had a slight flare and the jackets were soft and slouchy. It was a huge commercial success and a critical one as well. Here was have a set is made up of two pieces, an inner, sleeveless, dress with a soft cut jacket. Both pieces are made of a beautiful coarsely woven linen and silk mix that is just heavy enough to hold the shape but without adding any bulk or excess weight. In person the pink color is even richer and deeper then how it has photoed and is quite lovely. The cut of both pieces are wonderful. The dress is cut in a long sheath that gently flares out as it nears the hem. Slits are set on each side of the skirt so you get a bit of extra movement when you walk. It is sleeveless which is perfect for the warmer months and the waist is cut loose and easy. The front has a bibbed panel set over the inner dress. The detailing on it is remarkable - even though it is attached each of those buttons and button holes is 100% functional - though they serve no purpose in being so other then to have made the piece 100% properly. The neckline is a simple and collarless. The matching colored jacket sits over the dress and it too is kept simple but with immaculate seaming and top stitching creating the only detailing. It has no closures and is meant to sit softly on the body with little structure. It is beautiful and a remarkable example of his work during this pivotal collection for the house. Excellent overall condition with some minor notes below.

Both pieces are lined - the dress in a matching silk organza and the jacket in a hand set ivory silk. The dress closes with a back hand set painted metal zipper and the jacket has no closures. Hand finished throughout with silk covered seams in areas. The pockets on the jacket are functional. The pink color is deeper and much much better then how it photoed. Please note the following - the inner silk organza of the dress has some small tears and parts of it are missing through the upper bodice. It does not affect wearing it in anyway and rather then remove it I prefer to send as found. The jacket shows mild discoloration around the arms which does not go through - please review the photo provided after the shot of the label. There is the slightest grubbiness to the arms on the dress but very very minor and they would not photo even.

Jacket
Sleeves: 17.5"
Slightly dropped shoulders: 17"
Bust: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 20" from neck to hem

Dress
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 43" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# DD3188

Reference Photos: (1) Model in Dior, Vogue, March 1961.  /  (2) Dior Haute Couture Presentation, Spring 1961.  /  (3) Dior 1961. Quotes from the book Dior Catwalk 

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

This gorgeous little dress may not be as flashy as some pieces I have had on the site but it is absolute perfection if you are looking for a dress that will never feel inappropriate and still with a touch of detailing. It is made of a fine black silk that has the feel of a lightweight wool so it has structure and shape. It is cut to skim over the body. Yes, it does give shape but in that perfect way that feels classic. This is the type of dress that you may imagine Kate Middleton or Meghan Markle wearing in our modern world. Little cap sleeves give a touch of coverage to the upper arm and the waist is set slight above the natural waist line for the most flattering fit. The front neckline is scooped and detailed with a thick white silk cording that is hand placed and curved into a intricate pattern. I love that you can see a glimpse of skin through the cording. The fabric label on this one is hand written and the tag is numbered. This usually denotes a custom order or an order by an established client. It is extremely well made and my client says that it was never worn. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a black silk and closes with a back set zipper. Tagged a vintage 38. Numbered tag reads 28343. Light padding in each shoulder

Shoulders: padding extends slightly beyond natural shoulder and the seams are slightly dropped at 16"
Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 12" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 24.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3182

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This is a fabulous little dress from the Miss Dior label. It is made out of printed nylon jersey makes it very easy to wear and care for. This is a dress that can go from beach to cocktails to dancing. The fabric reminds me a bit of high end swimsuit fabric but is lighter. It will wear amazingly and you can literally roll it in a ball in your suitcase and wear it with a quick steam as soon as you arrive to where you are going. The front is cut with a scooped halter bodice with straps that curve up and behind your neck. The bodice is defined and made from two layers of the same fabric for a little support and to make it opaque. This sits above a high set waistline. The skirt sweeps out from there in a gentle A-line. It's fabulous and it's Miss Dior. Excellent condition.

The bodice is a double layer of the same nylon jersey and the skirt is unlined. Slips on and buttons to close at the back of the halter neck. The fabric does have stretch it will fit from a 0-2 maybe up to a smaller busted 6

Bust: 13-16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 12-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: approx 56" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3168

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This dress is from the Spring 1996 collection as worn by Shalom Harlow for the runway show. It was actually the closing look of the show. Shalom also wore one for its appearance in Vogue Magazine. If that provenance was not enough, I lent this exact dress to stylist Penney Lovell who fitted it for Emily Deschanel's appearance at the 91st Academy Awards this year. Emily walked the red carpet in the dress. It is am amazing piece of fashion history and the dress is stunning.

The dress is a beautiful example of Ferre's work during his time as Creative Director for Dior. It was the highlight of the show for that season and was chosen to close the presentation. The dress is fitted through the bodice with a neckline that curves down in a slight scoop. This version as little straps that the dress is suspended from but if you prefer the strapless look of the runway you could easily tuck them in or remove them as the neckline is cut the same as the runway dress. There is now waist seam to break the line of the dress. All of the foundation work to hold the dress in place is done and hidden inside. On the exterior the dress curves down front he neckline in an unbroken line, curving in at the waist and then curving out and over the hips. Pockets sit on each hip and each is still tacked shut. The skirts flare out dramatically with a bit of a Spanish Flamenco feel and there is an elaborate set of built in underskirts to help achieve the flare and volume you see. These are made with a netted silk with lace finished edges and there are layers of the ruffles attached at the end of the inner hems. The skirt is cut shorter at the front and then flares out dramatically at the back. Emily is quite tall so on her the skirts lifted off of the ground but in a girl who is not quite as tall you would get a more trained effect. Note that the back of the dress curves around with a slight drop. On the shot of Emily from the back you can see that it is finished with a more V cut, this was a temp alter where the back was folded over and tacked as it suited Emily better that way. It was un-tacked and re-cleaned since the Oscar's and there is no evidence that it was ever down any longer other then the photo. Excellent condition 

Bust: 15.5-16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner waist: 12.75" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 50" from top of bodice to front hem, 60" to the longest point of the back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3155

Reference Photos: (1-4) Emily Deschanel at the 91st Academy Awards, Styled by Penny Lovell / (5) Shalom Harlow for Vogue, 1996 / (6) Dior SS 1996 Runway (7) Christian Dior Runway video, The Fashion Channel

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This exceptional dress is by Marc Bohan for Christian Dior and it is a wonderful example of his work during this time period. It is not perfect but I believe its flaws could be reinforced. Please make sure to read the entire description and review the provided photos before purchasing. Its an exceptional piece and offered at a dramatically discounted price as a result of its small flaws.

It was in the late 1960s that Bohan was doing these wonderful metallic detailed dresses for Dior and the results were stupendous. The red silk chiffon base is as light as a feather and there are literally yards and yards of fabric used to make this dress. Woven through the silk is a winding flower and vine design that is entirely made form a gold lurex thread which gives the dress its metallic finish. The gold is used from neck to hem and catches the light as you move. The neckline is high and the bodice is set above a empire waist that is detailed with a wide red silk ribbon that is attached and hooks to close at the back. This is balanced by long sleeves that has a bit of volume to it above the cuffs. The skirt is fabulous and has a tremendous amount of fabric it, falling to the floor from under the red ribbon. It also has a extremely large shawl scarf piece that is made form the same fabric and I think you could easily use some of the fabric from that to reinforce the flaws. The flaws are as follows. There is stress and small tears to the fabric at the seams under each arm and near the seams. I see some very small starts of this near the seam of the top of the shoulder. There are a couple of large areas on the fabric of the skirt that also show small tears and weakening. Please review all photos provided that are shown after the label shot and read any extra details concerning condition below. Otherwise it is in great condition and presents very well

The skirt is fully lined in a red silk with the sleeves left unlined. It closes with a back painted metal & nylon zipper and hook & eye just above the zipper of the low back. The ribbon belt hooks to close. Each sleeve buttons to close and one button is missing. Hand finishes. Please read above concerning weak areas of the fabric. There may be additional teeny tiny areas I missed. The scarf could be used to reinforce the weak areas or even to recreate and replace them as it is huge. This would easily be priced for $3500 if perfect so is a tremendous bargain for the person willing to put in a little work on it. It is sold as a final sale

Sleeves: 25"
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 22" flat across from side seam to side seam of inner lining
Bodice: 11" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 43" from waist to hem

Shawl: 94" x 43"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3151

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

I have held this in my archives for several years now and I think that it is a stunning example of the fur pieces being produced at this point in Dior's history. I am no expert on furs but believe this it is mink. The color is a rich deep chocolate that is so dark that at first glance it almost appears to be a black. The fur is supple and soft and very shiny. It is applied on to the coat in series of matching rectangles that each measure approx 5" x 7" and you get a bit of a border where each fur piece meets another. This gives the coat an added bit of texture and a subtle pattern. It is cut in an almost trench coat style with a more structured, flared bottom to it then a soft trench would have. Big, unusual silver buttons run in a double row down the front. Slanted slit pockets sit on each hip and and it has its original matching tie belt that you can cinch to give the coat shape. The sleeves are cut straight and full and the collar is a classic notched wide collar.  It has been properly stored and cared for and appears to have been worn very little if at all. No splitting, issues or shedding. Excellent condition with a minor note below to review.

Fully lined in a black silky satin and closes with the buttons down the front and has an attached tie inside. Slip pockets on each hip and one hidden along the inside edge at the front. Matching tie belt. I see no bald spots or shedding, the pelts are supple, soft and shiny. there is slight wear at some of the common points - edges of the sleeves. the inner edge, but it is very minor. For a vintage fur from such an important designer, I still rate this as near excellent. The fur has no odd odor, is still supple and is stable with no signs of excessive shedding that would indicate that it is breaking down. 

Sleeves: 24"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 44" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# C484

I have a small collection of historically important, key designer labelled vintage furs, fur trimmed & feather pieces stored away in my archives that I will be slowly posting on the site over the next couple of years until I have none left. I will no longer be buying furs for the shop moving forward and have not purchased anything for several years now. I feel like times have changed and while there still is a place for vintage furs for some, including collectors and historians, many modern girls are choosing other options. Many of the pieces in my collection are representative of the designer during a set time period in history that was different then our modern outlook. I have decided that the best course to handle this controversial issue is to let the pieces I have go rather then sit in a cold storage unit. All fur coats, fur trimmed & feather pieces are final sale

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

The Colifichets boutique was found on the ground floor of the Dior Haute Couture atelier at 30 Avenue Montaigne in Paris. It allowed Dior to expand his clientele beyond his Haute Couture clients. The pieces were still made in house and to demi-couture standards. I found reference to the boutique as early as 1949 in article giving the history of when Dior conceived his first lipstick. That idea was conceived as a sort of limited-edition 'gift with purchase', and was sent to the most loyal clients of his Colifichet boutique as a Christmas present that year. This is a beautiful example of the workmanship coming out of the boutique. It is not perfect but still a very rare and important piece of Dior's early history.

The dress is made from a rich ivory silk that holds the shape well. The bodice is cut with a high V at the front and the back gently scoops to leave the upper back bare. The waist is set high just below the shaped and formed bodice and the skirt is cut to angle out as it nears the hem. The bodice has an intricate design done in a combination of crystal rhinestones, dangling drops, and faux pearls. The edges of the bodice are densely covered and all the edges are finished with dangling teardrops. Every piece is hand set and applied and you can clearly see the hand done work on the back of the fabric. The interior is fully finished with a boned and cupped inner corset that hooks to close independently under the exterior zipper.

The dress is far from perfect and is suitable for the collector as is, or for someone who would be willing to take on a restoration project. I note the following flaws: faint discoloration and staining scattered over the skirt. These might be lightened out by a specialist. They are faint and if you don't mind small flaws these could be considered negligible. On the bodice there are some missing tear drops and beads here and there. Not very many and a repositioning of some of the other beads and crystals would resolve this. Inside, some of the metal stays that create the boning are poking through at the ends of this silk pockets. Again a minor issue to resolve. The interior of the inner corset is otherwise very clean and unaffected. The real flaw is the staining under each arm. The arms would have to be re-cut. The good news is that the marks do not go terrible deep into the dress from under the arms so should be doable without completely compromising the dress. I have chosen to sell it as found for two reasons. One, the collector may wish it to be in its original, as found  state regardless of the flaws, and two, for the girl buying to potentially wear, it makes more sense to have the repairs done to fit her specifically.

It is fully lined in an ivory silk and part of the lining has its own hook and eye closure. The exterior silk closes with a back, painted metal sipper. The  inner corset closes with hook and eye. The tag is numbered. Please make sure to fully read the above paragraph before purchasing. This gown is sold as a final sale and as found

Bust: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam, removing the inner corset might give you another inch or two. The cups would fit up to a B I think
Waist: 11" flat across from side seam to side seam, removing the inner corset might give you another inch or two
12 to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 12" from top of shoulder to lowest part of empire waist
Skirt: 41" from lowest part of empire waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS to maybe a XS if inner corset was removed or altered

Item# DD3089

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

On June 15, 1978 Lisa Najeeb Halaby wed King Hussein wed and she became the Queen of Jordan. She chose a Christian Dior gown, designed by Marc Bohan, for the ceremony and instantly became a style icon. Harper's Bazaar named the gown one of their 'The Most Iconic Royal Wedding Gowns of All Time'. That same year my client commissioned this version of that dress. I have also included a reference photo from the Metropolitan Museum of a top from the same collection that year that also has the open cut work 'ladder' technique. The dress for sale today comes direct from the daughter of the original Haute Couture client who had it commissioned.

The attention to detail shown in every hand done stitch is breathtaking. It is entirely done by hand and the silk chiffon is of the highest possible grade and as fine and light as a feather. The top floats over the torso for an easy fit and is left unlined, which makes it semi-transparent. There is a double row of that open 'ladder' stitch edging the top portion of the bodice. The skirt falls in a column of bias cut silk chiffon. Detailing the lower half of the skirt are six rows of that same open ladder design that is used on the bodice so that it is in perfect balance. It comes with the original flower belt. The belt combines an antique gold metal thread lame that is then detailed with a huge silk flower. You can wear around the waist as intended or even choose to wear at the neck or as a head piece. I also photoed it without the belt so that you can see how versatile it could be. There is also a square silk chiffon scarf that came with it that is not photoed but will be sent with the gown. It is truly a wonderful dress and when you see it in person you will be astounded at the level of craftsmanship and care put into the construction. A masterpiece and fit for a modern day queen. Excellent condition.

The skirt is lined in second layer of the same silk used on the exterior while the bodice is unlined. It is completely made by hand as the parameters of Haute Couture dictates. It closes with a handset, low side painted metal zip below the waist and and above that the bodice closes with a series of hand set, silk covered snaps. Inner waist stay the hooks to close. Note there is no label but it is true Haute Couture Dior. Note the color has a slight hint of terra cotta to it in person

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 18" from shoulder to waist but drapes to approx 15" when on
Skirt: 39.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2365

Reference Photos: (1-2) Queen Noor in a Christian Dior Gown & King Hussain of Jordan on their wedding day, 1978 (credits unknown)  /  (3-4) Graco of Monaco in Yellow Christian Dior for the wedding mass of Caroline of Monaco, 1978.  /  (5) Princess Caroline of Monaco and Philippe Junot civil wedding, June 28,1978.  /  (6-7) Dior Evening Ensemble from The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Online Collection

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

The notes for the 1972 collection in the book 'Dior, The Catwalk' state that The New York Times declared Bohan's collection for Dior as 'the best of the season in Paris'  that year. The same notes on to say that the full records for Bohan's collection did not survive the passages of time. Having a dress from this collection that is so very well documented is that much more special as a result. The dress is exceptional.

The caption on the photo of Vogue editorial that I have included here says it best: "Pretty. That's really the word for it - the softness of everything at Dior. So feminine at night especially...The flirt of the sleeves on a short dress for evening...black mousseline, covered at the neck and yet...revealing lots of skin beneath and lots of leg below". Of course on this version, the dress has a crossed over V neck that I prefer to the higher tied neckline. A Haute Couture client would have ordered the dress in a variation that suited them best and often a change like this would not be allowed to be repeated. This design also allows the unusual sleeves to really be showcased and become the highlight of the dress. Each sleeve is semi-sheer to the elbow and is full and poufed underneath until the cuff cinched it in at the wrist. Lying over the lower portion of the sleeve is a circle of silk that that circles around each sleeve and lies over the lower half of the sleeve. It is a very unusual treatment to the sleeves and instantly catches the eye. You can see why it would have been pulled to be used for editorials that season. The skirt is full and has two soft and floating layers of black silk chiffon over a slimmer  inner skirt. The shape this creates mimics the detailing on the sleeve perfectly. The back is left entirely transparent for an unexpected touch of sensuality. Dated and numbered with it Dior Haute Couture label. This is a rare piece of fashion history. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a nude silk chiffon except for the sleeves and upper back above the waist. The back closes with a low set, fine metal zipper and then the dress snaps to close with a series of tiny snaps up the back of the dress that run over the zipper, past the waist to the neck. Each cuff buttons to close. Entirely made by hand. The Haute Couture label is present and the dress is numbered 01340

Sleeves: 27" (poufs up when on)
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 24" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3031

Reference Photos: (1) Karen Graham in a chiffon dress by Marc Bohan for Dior, Autumn/Winter Collection 1972, photo by Richard Avedon, July 1972.  /  (2) Dior dress in Vogue, September 1972.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This dress is one of those amazing little black dresses that have just enough 'pop' to be the perfect evening piece without ever being too over the top. This is from is from Marc Bohan reign over the house of for Dior and it is a stunning example of his work during this time period. The dress is made from a black silk crepe and the cut is a play on a classic tuxedo. The neckline is cut into a low square and the reference to an evening tuxedo is done with the double row of hand covered buttons that run down the front. An simple black belt in the same fabric is attached around the waist. The skirt below that falls in a simple and slim pencil silhouette. The effect is very chic and simple. Along the neckline are rows of glittering crystal rhinestones that are set in a double band. These follow the edge of the front and back and then curve up and over each shoulder strap. They glitter like diamonds in real life and have far more of an impact then how they photographed. This is demi-couture and the Dior label is numbered, meaning that it was most likely a custom order through the boutique rather then an order place through the Paris atelier. It is a beautiful. Excellent condition.

Fully interlined in a black silk and closes with a fine back painted metal zipper. All the inner edges are ribbon finished and hand done. Constructed to demi-couture standards. The buttonholes are properly made but the buttons are decorative only and the front does not undo. The belt is attached around the waist with hidden snaps and has a slip buckle front. There is a tiny amount of minuscule snagging tot he fabric here and there. It does not detract but is mentioned for accuracy.

Bust: to 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14-14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from top of shoulder strap to waist
Skirt: 23" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2702

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

This exceptional silk halter dress with its matching blouse 'jacket' is by Marc Bohan for Christian Dior and it is a wonderful example of his work during this time period. I found an example with a similar feel from the 1976 collection and am sure that this would be from that same collection or within a season or two of it. The extra label example reference I have provided , taken from the book Dior by Assoulin, is to show that this label, with slight variations as time passed, was being used as an alternative to special order, or custom couture items from the period of the house that dated from the late 1960s to the mid-late seventies.

The silk chiffon that has been used to construct this dress is especially fine. It is a pale, very light yellow, that has fine gold stripes running vertically down both the dress and top. The gold lurex thread is woven through that silk and this gives the dress a subtle metallic finish. The vertical lines are used to highlight the cut of the dress and I love the way that they catch the light as you move for the subtlest of glimmers. The neckline is a cut halter style with a strap running up around the back of the neck. The bodice plunges into a V and the fabric wraps around your upper waist but still leaves most of the back completely bare. From the waist to mid hip the skirt hugs the body and then opens out by using wide, flat pleats. It is on these pleats that you see the care a couture piece is given. Here the gold stripes are placed so that they each still perfectly lines up across the top of each of the two inch pleats so the pattern is unbroken to the eye and the volume seemingly happens by magic when you move. The dress has its original matching top that blouses over the dress when on. It buttons to close down the front below the soft silk attached tie at the neck. Matching fabric ties run through the waist and each sleeve so you can cinch them and have it blouse and pouf, or wear them loose and open for a more relaxed feel. The dress is gorgeous and even better in person. Excellent condition.

The dress is fully lined in a pale yellow silk taffeta and the top is unlined. The dress closes with a back painted metal couture zipper and buttons at the neck. Inner waist stay hooks to close. The top buttons to close and the sleeves and waist has ties that run through to cinch. Light boning through the bodice. Hand finished through out, hand finished selvages. Silk covered buttons. Since it does not have the formal couture label I am categorizing this as demi-couture, but strongly suspect it was special order from the couture atelier.

Dress
Bust: approx 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner lining hips: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: approx 15" from top of neck straps to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Top
Sleeves: 25"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam with ties to adjust in
Length: 18" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2986

Reference Photo: Christian Dior ensemble, photo by Michel Picard, L'Officiel (n. 626), 1976.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.

A similar dress in yellow was photoed in 1965 and the dress with its beautiful, almost iridescent peach is even prettier in my opinion. Marc Bohan was only a couple of years into his tenure as head of Dior and the 1965 collection was a study in line and cut. He designed a gown called the "Eloise" that year that has a similar cut and apron technique used in the skirt, it is the obvious that this dress is descended from that. I have included photos of both dresses as reference.

The first thing about this dress that you are drawn to is the color. It is an amazing shade of peach and the camera does not quite capture the slightly iridescent quality that the silk adds to its impact. In person it is gorgeous and the color is richer and has more depth. The dress is immaculately constructed. For example, the edge of each inner seam is painstakingly wrapped in a thin banding of silk chiffon. The work to do this with such a finicky fabric would have taken hours to complete just this one detail and it is a detail that is unseen. The dress has a almost sculptural feel to its shape. The bodice is sleeveless and has a softly scooped neck. It is cut and fitted to skim over the body by perfectly placed seaming. The skirt is deceptive as it appears to be a simple cut but it is actually constructed in layers.  There is an inner fitted skirt that has two slit pockets that sit on each hip. Over this inner layer are two attached panels, one that sits over the front of the skirt and the other that sits over the back. The best way to describe it is like an attached apron that leaves the sides open on either side to see the inner skirt. It is exquisite. Excellent condition with a note to review below concerning the inner lining.

The dress is fully lined in a white silk chiffon on both the inner dress and under the skirt overlays. The inner silk bodice is lined in a silk crepe. It closes at the back with a painted metal, hand set zipper. There is a second hand set metal zipper that closes the inner waist and bodice. Hook and eye are hidden to close the band set at the waist. All the edges of the inner seams are finished with a silk chiffon edging. Some of the inner lining is splitting horizontally here and there as the fabric used was so fine and delicate. I have chose to leave it as found rather then having it removed. It is all original and is stable and wearable as is and of course you do not see the lining when it is on. It appears to have not been worn or worn very little otherwise. The label is numbered denoting its demi-couture status.

Bust: 18.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from shoulder to waist
Skirt: 26" from waist to to bottom hem

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD953

Reference photo: (1) Marc Bohan for Christian Dior, 1965.  /  (2-3) from the book Dior, Marc Bohan 1961-1989 by Assouline.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival

20% Off Use Code: EXTRA20

This Haute Couture dress by Marc Bohan for Christian Dior is wonderful. The attention to detail shown in every stitch is breathtaking and to the highest standards. A longer version with a less detailed pleat insert technique is held in the archives of The Metropolitan Museum but I prefer this version. It would have been made entirely by hand in the Dior atelier. The silk used is of the highest possible grade and the gives the dress its beautiful drape and fall. The top is cut into a V that tops a wide fitted banding through the waist. Each sleeves is cut so that it puffs above the fitted cuffs. A thin band of matching fabric is used as a tie at the waist for a romantic and whimsical  touch. The skirt is a masterpiece of pleat work. Each individual pleat is perfectly matched to its neighbor and inset on a series of angles around the waist. Each of those angles lines up with the one beside it causing the pleats to lie flat until you move. It is truly a brilliantly cut dress. Excellent overall condition with some small note in the condition report below to review.

Fully lined in a matching silk and is completely made by hand as the parameters of Haute Couture dictates. It closes with a back, handset painted metal zip. The cuffs button with round polished quartz buttons.There is one small dark spot on the back of one elbow and a soft discoloration on the back of one sleeve near the cuff. One button missing from one cuff. The tie belt was originally stitched to the dress and there is the slightest of marks on the fabric at the front waist. Haute Couture number 003272. Note that in person the color is deeper in tone and even better then how it photoed.

Sleeves: 24"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 9" from neck to seam under the bust
Waist detailing: approx 6"
Skirt: approx 25" from higher points of the waist detailing to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2037

Reference Photos: (1) Christian Dior Runway, 1973.  /  (2) From the MET Collection.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.