This would have been designed and created under the eye of Marc Bohan for Dior and has the added distinction of coming directly from the daughter of the Haute Couture client who ordered it from the atelier. It has never been on the market prior to this offering. The top is exquisite and is entirely hand made as the parameters of Haute Couture define. It is literally like holding a little jewel in your hands and feels like a wisp of air once on despite its dense bead and sequin work. The silk chiffon used is of of the finest grade and you can feel the difference at first touch. The top opens like a card and you slip it on and zip it to close up one side and then hook the top shoulder on that same side. It is covered in a floral design made up of tiny gold and silver seed beads, and sequins all hand applied. I believe this to be the work of Lesage. The edges of the top are finished with more sequins and beads and also crystal rhinestones. It is truly exquisite and 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 from this time period. No matter how amazing it looks in the photos it is even better in real life. Excellent condition

The body of the top is backed in a black silk chiffon and the hand done bead and sequin work is clearly visible through the fabric. It closes at the side with a hand set zipper and along the top of one shoulder with hook and eye. Entirely hand done, all original. I see one tiny bit of one row missing on one flower petal. See last photo. Perhaps a single bead or sequin may be missing elsewhere but nothing I see that was readily apparent

Bust: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 16" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# S835

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 dress from the Christian Dior label that showcases the restraint and elegance the best of the brands work has always displayed. It is cut to supermodel length and the lines make it feel even longer. Everything about the cut is done to lengthen the girl wearing it and give her one long and beautiful line. The shoulders are slightly squared off, but not in an exaggerated way. The sleeves are long and lean. The body of the dress follows the body underneath in a way that the fabric just skims over you from shoulder to hem. The waist is brought in just a touch and this is done with vertical seaming so that there is no line to break the fabric across the waist. The skirt falls from there to the floor in a column. It buttons down one side and the buttons are set on a slight curve that gives the dress a respectful nod to the early days of the house. These completely open so you could actually wear this is a layered piece if you wished. It is simple and refined and has not a single unnecessary seam. The original tags are still attached. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a deep blue silk and closes with the buttons down the front. Original tags attached and appears to have never been worn. Tagged a modern 40

Sleeves: 25.5"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 64" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3096

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.

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) 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.

This is an incredible dress by Marc Bohan for Christian Dior from the 1978 Fall Haute Couture collection. It is very dramatic with extra long, extended and trained sleeves. Gowns like this really define the fantasy nature of Haute Couture. It has both the dated and numbered couture label from the atelier and  the original hand written tag from Neiman Marcus where it would have been ordered through directly from the atelier in France. That tag identifies it as being Look #54 from the runway and with an original price of $7,975 which converts to $29,434.97 in modern dollars. A sum that would still be well below the price in a modern day couture garment. I have also included editorial reference photos from that year as it was widely documented

The dress is made of a vivid blue, liquid feeling silk satin, reminiscent of the silks used in the 1930s. The fabric drapes exceptionally well, feels almost weightless once on and holds the vibrancy of the color exceptionally well. The neckline is cut square and highlighted with a wide band of the same fabric that is top stitched for contrast. The dress flows from there to the floor in a bias cut column of silk with no defined waist. The sleeves are attached to the top part of the shoulder and they then drape over the arm with the inner edges left open to create a caped effect.  Little open loops lie along the edge near your hands and along the bottom. These allow you to slip a finger through to control the placement of the sleeve if you do not wish them to hang down so much. You can see that in one of the reference photos they have draped the sleeves s an option. The full length of each sleeves from the shoulder to hem is approximately 7 1/2 feet so you have a lot of fabric to play with and style. It is an incredible piece of fashion history. It present as in good condition but does have some notes below to review.

Fully lined through the body in a blue tissue silk and closes with hidden set painted metal zipper at the side and a series of hook & eye just above that. Hand finished to Haute Couture standards. The fabric shows some slight areas of fading and slight discoloration throughout and there is a small area under each arm that shows discoloration (this does not show when on because of the cut of the sleeves) and also yellowing to the fabric here and there, most noticeably at the back. I have photoed the largest area which is about 1/4 the way up the back from the hem. Some darkening/storage marks to the sleeves that are minor. Sold as found

Sleeves: 87" approx.
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 61" from waist to hem (sleeves add 28" to length)
Slit at the side: 31" from hem to top of slit

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2566

Reference Photos: (1) Dior, 1978. Photo by Patrick Bertrand. Hair by Carita.  /  (2) L'Officiel n.645, 1978. Photo by Michel Picard.

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

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.

This is an exceptionally pretty two piece set by Marc Bohan for Christian Dior and it is a stunning example of his work during this time period. Both the top and skirt are made from a fine silk that is a pretty combination of a black base with bright pops of color in that floral design design. The label on the set is numbered and on a Boutique label that most often meant a special or custom made order for a client, hence the demi-couture categorization. The fine construction and hand finishes throughout backs this up. The neckline of the top is finished with a soft ruffle that circle the entire neck. The cut through the bodice is loose and easy and the waist is set with an elastic over a flounced hem. The sleeves are soft and each has a elastic at the wrist and a flounced cuff that picks up the collar and hip detailing. The skirt is a marvel of simplicity and is cut in a simple column of silk to the floor. The interest comes from the play on the print - the top is densely covered with a spray of flowers and the skirt has a more scattering of the print giving a beautiful contrast when the pieces are worn together. It is a beautiful and dramatic piece of vintage couture. Excellent condition.

The skirt is fully lined in a black silk chiffon and the top is unlined. The top closes with a fine back painted metal zipper. The waist of the top and each sleeve has elastic. The skirt closes with a combination of a flat hook at the waist band and a fine painted metal zipper. Hand finished and the tag is numbered 1361/001 on both tags.

Top
Sleeves: 23"
Slight drop shoulders: 16"
Bust: to 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Elastic waist: 12" -15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 15" from neck to waist seam, + 6" from waist to bottom hem

Skirt:
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 40" from top of bodice to waist

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD2901

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

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 with vintage versions as the cost of current Haute Couture has skyrocketed.

The blouse is exquisite and of course it was made entirely by hand in the Dior atelier as the parameters of Haute Couture define. The silk is of the finest grade and you can feel the difference at first touch. The cut is simple and very chic with a wrapped front that gives you a nice plunging V. It gathers in through the waist and has a small peplum under the waistline. Each sleeve is cut long and slim with buttoned cuffs. I love the top stitching that follows the line of the from V and is picked up again on the cuffs. Lots of couture touches and just a wonderful example of the period. Note that while it presents as excellent condition when on it does have a flaw - please read condition notes below.

Unlined and wraps and closes at the front with a series of hook & eye and snaps. Each cuff buttons to close. Entirely hand done as one would expect from Haute Couture. Note that it is slightly flawed - there are "wrinkle" marks in the fabric at the fold of each arm that do not seem like they will come out - please super-size provided photos to see each arm. Presents perfectly well when on or layered under something and since it is Haute Couture I think these are forgivable. It has been priced accordingly.

Sleeves: 21"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 24" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# S797

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 suit is from the Fall 1977 Christian Dior Haute Couture collection. It is extremely well documented and was used in several editorials that season as it perfectly captured the mood of the season. It is exceptional and a wonderful example of the work that Marc Bohan was doing for the house during this time period.

Both pieces are made from a beautiful ivory colored silk that has a secondary pattern woven through it. That pattern is little abstract shapes and I love that every once in a while one of the shapes in that design look like little hearts. The pants are cut with a straight leg and the use of that silk as the fabric keeps them soft feeling. Pockets lie along the seams on each hip. The jacket is constructed in a boxed cut that falls in a slim and straight line. It ends just at the hip which gives the pants the perfect balance. I love the clear lucite buttons with their little silver capped tops that run down the front. They are the only embellishment on the piece and give it a subtle bit of glitz. Three top set pockets in the same fabric add subtle detailing to the front of the jacket. It was a teeny bit small on my mannequin so on the right size girl will sit even better. In person it is even better. A true piece of history. Numbered Haute Couture. Overall excellent condition with some small notes to review below.

Both pieces are fully lined - the jacket in a rich cream silk satin and the pants are also a silk satin but a slightly lighter version. Both pieces are entirely made by hand. The jacket buttons to close and pants close with a front painted metal zipper and hook & eye at the waist. Pockets on the jacket and pants. There is a 2 1/4 inch hem on the pants if you needed more length. The pants have a slight line of a yellow mark at the lower front right leg near the hem (see photo). The jacket shows slight discoloration under the arms on the inside lining that does not go through. (see photo). There is the very slightest darkening to the edge of the collar. All minor and it presents as excellent.

Jacket
Sleeves: 21"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 23.5" from neck to hem

Pants
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 41" from waist to hem
Inseam: 30.5"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Reference Photos: (1) Christian Dior Haute Couture 1977 Runway Show.  /  (2) Photo by Albert Watson, Vogue, October 1977.  /  (3) Photo by Roland Bianchini, Dior, 1977.

Item# DD2793

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 black pleated silk chiffon Dior skirt is utterly fantastic and a true piece of Haute Couture. I am in absolute love with it - the fabric, the design, the workmanship - everything about it is perfection. Haute Couture pieces are always a rare find and the beauty of this particular piece really makes it a once in a lifetime find. It has lost its label but is absolutely Dior and absolutely Haute Couture. It is from the daughter of the original owner and was purchased with many of the other couture Dior pieces I have in the shop at the moment.

The fabric is a fine silk chiffon in a the perfect black that will go with everything. It is so hard to convey the quality and fineness of a black piece and when you add that every seam and edging is completely hand done it is almost impossible. The person that buys this will be extremely pleased to see the level of work and quality of this piece in person. The main portion of the skirt is knife pleated in perfectly spaced lines, which gives it a long and lean cut when you are standing still but allows for a tremendous amount of volume and movement. A more fitted band tops a semi-sheer band of chiffon at the waist, creating shape and a sensual detailing. Under the top floating pleated layer is a more fitted inner layer of silk chiffon. It is really a work of art and of course being that is is true Haute Couture makes it that much more special. Excellent, museum quality condition.

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 then modern ones. 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 then modern ones. This dress also comes direct from the daughter of the original Haute Couture client so has not been on the market prior to this.

Fully lined with all interior seams and all edges hand finished. It closes at the side with a handset, fine painted metal zip under a panel of silk that closes over most of the zipper with hand set snaps. Finished to Haute Couture standards and entirely done by hand. I have included photos of the interior work so you can see.

Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 41" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# S728

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 coat is extraordinary and is beautiful and early example of Christian Dior's work. This is the Dior Original, New York label so is what is considered to be demi-couture from this time period of Dior's history. These where made in, and for, the American market but were based on the runway designs and with many of the same high standard finishes that the true Haute Couture pieces incorporated.

The coat looks to have never been worn, or worn very little. It is cut with the volume and curves that defined the era and showcases the influence that the house of Dior had in establishing the direction of line and cut during this era. A neat small collar sits above the buttons that run down the front. The lines of the coat are simple and beautiful with a sense of austerity to the lines. It utilizes the very minimal of seaming in its design with dropped curving shoulders and arms and that fantastically full, voluminous cut through the body. I love the huge front pockets that sit on each hip at the front. The fabric is a highly textured matte wool and the textured lining feels and looks like the type of silk that would normally be used in men's suiting. It feels insanely modern and looks like it just stepped out of the showroom of the atelier. Excellent condition

Lined in hand set black, textured silk. It buttons to close at the front and has pockets on each hips with each pocket is lined in silk. The buttons have proper finished buttonholes. Hand finishes. The cut is meant to sit oversized and will fit a variety of sizes. Appears unworn or worn very, very little

Sleeves: 16" approx.
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: to 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 22.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 25" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 42" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# C435

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 Haute Couture evening coat is extraordinary. Yves Saint Laurent only created six Haute Couture collections for the House of Dior so pieces by him are very special and rare. Fall 1958 was his second collection for the house and this collection was presented to Princess Margaret and guests at Blenheim Palace. This coat is exceptionally well documented. It was the piece from the show that was used in the ad campaign that season and it also appears in the book "Dior: Yves Saint Laurent 1958-1960" one of a series of books celebrating the houses 70th anniversary. It builds on the Trapeze line of the first collection and in the Dior book it is noted as being ‘Courbe line’ or curved line. It is extraordinarily beautiful and a true piece of fashion history.

This ‘Petite Theatre’ formal coat is made from a navy blue silk satin and is cut with the volume that Yves brought to the collection that season. A neat rounded collar wraps in a curve around the neck and closes just off to the side to sit perfectly above the offset closure. A double row of large silk covered buttons in the same beautiful shade of blue silk runs down the front of the coat. The vertical seams that run down each side of the buttons are cut gracefully on a slight curve and pockets are hidden along their curve. The back has a great swoop of volume and fullness created by an inverted pleat that opens from just under the collar. The coat feels like it was worn very little if at all and is in outstanding, condition. It is properly numbered with the original Haute Couture label and made entirely by hand to the standards demanded of Haute Couture. It is an exquisite example of Haute Couture from one of the most important houses of our modern era and the fact that it is so well documented only adds to its appeal. Excellent condition

Fully lined in hand set blue silk. It buttons to close at the front with silk covered buttons and has two hooks inside to secure in place (photoed). Pockets are hidden at each hip along the seams. It is in the best possible Museum level condition that it could be and looks to have been worn very little if at all. I think it is in better condition then the version photoed for the book even. The coat is meant to feel slightly oversized so will fit a variety of sizes.

Sleeves: 16"
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: open
Waist: open
Hips: open
Length: 38.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# C434

Reference Photos: (1) Christian Dior ad, 1958.  /  (2-3) "Dior: Yves Saint Laurent 1958-1960", pages 108-109, published by Assoulin.  /  (4-6) Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, by Erin Leydon.

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 and coat set in a rich raspberry print silk is extraordinary. After much research I believe it to be from the mid-fifties while Christian Dior still presided over the house. You can see a striking similarity to the color and print in the examples shown here from the Haute Couture collections between 1954 and 1965. This set is from the Modele Original line which would have been custom made based on the Haute Couture presentation and special ordered through the London store. It is not unusual to see variations and small changes from the runway line in these while still retaining color and line references to the Couture examples.

Both the coat and dress are numbered and entirely hand finished and extremely well made. The inner dress is a voluminous, shift cut and it is a larger size which is very unusual to find. The silk is very fine and it is backed with a silk organza. The coat is a double layer of this same silk with the organza lining only the sleeves. Both pieces are so light that each of the two pieces have weighted hems so that they fall perfectly in place. The seaming is wonderful with the shape deliberately created through the placement of the seams. On the dress there is a small notched neckline anchored by a flat bow at the front and the back has a low slung flat bow at the base of the small of the back. It is cut to be unfitted and has an almost cocoon shape to it. The coat is cut with lots volume as well and perfectly showcases the feel of that era. It is collarless and cut to sit almost off of the shoulders. On a real girl it has an almost slouched feel to it and the back puffs out tremendously with a great swoop of volume and fullness. The seams are cut gracefully on a curve and the sleeves kept short and wide. It is wonderful! Presents as excellent condition. Please read condition notes on some small flaws

Both pieces are lined in hand set silk, the dress in an organza and the coat in the same silk as the exterior and organza in the sleeves. The dress closes at the back with a series of hook & eye and snaps at the back. The coat has no closures. There are a couple of small areas where the fabric has thinned and only the weave in one direction remains, one on the dress, one on the shoulder of the coat and one in the interior inside arm of the coat - all these tiny flaws are pictured. Otherwise in Museum quality and it is really fabulous. The dress is numbered 19013 and the coat 19012.

Note that the measurements indicate a large size but I suspect this would have been worn by a smaller girl as this was the trend of the time. Hence the MED-XL catergorization.

Jacket
Sleeves: 12.5"
Shoulders: 23"
Bust: 25.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 25.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 25.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 40.5" from neck to hem

Dress
Bust: 22.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 41.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-XL

Item# DD2674

Reference Photos: (1) Dovima in Dior, 1956. Photo by Henry Clarke.  /  (2) Dior Afternoon ensemble, 1954 from the Chicago History Museum 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.

This is such an amazing and sensual gown. It is Marc Bohan for Christian Dior and is a stunning example of his work during this time period. It is made of a rich, luxurious silk velvet in an inky, jet black. Velvet has made a come back the last few seasons and I for one am glad of it. The cut is simple and sleek with a halter neckline made when the fabric curves up and around the neck. At the back is a large attached bow with velvet ties that trail down the back. The back is left bare because of that same curving cut. The skirt is marvelous and cut to feel sleek and simple but add some volume and balance to the bareness of the neckline. From the waist it flows to the floor with a flaring cut. All the shape is created with masterful, curved vertical seams and inner boning through the bodice. It is fully lined in silk so feels sensual both on the outside and the interior. It is a beautiful and dramatic piece despite its simple and austere lines. Note that it is labelled as a sample and also has a numbered tag along with its original Dior label. This means that it may have been a runway sample or a sample sent to shops to preview before buying for the next season. The inner seam work appears to be all hand work but I am loathe to label this as true Haute Couture without more information, hence the demi-couture categorization. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a fine back silk and closes with a two back painted metal zipper - one on the interior corseting and one hidden set on the exterior. The back of the neck closes with hook & eye. Sample and numbered tags present. The number tag is very faint but seems to be A39839 but that is just a guess. Inner boning and shaping through the bodice.

Bust: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam with room for up to a B cup
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57.5" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2658

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 am a little obsessed with this fedora by Christian Dior. It has a small, neat brim and sits at a jaunty angle once on. It is made of a felted wool and the band that circles the crown is an ultra-suede. The textures those two fabric have when combined are delicious and the colors make it the perfect chic neutral. I love love love the little "arrow" detail that give illusion of going through the hat and how each side of that detailing is anchored with a little gold piece. Trust me - you will wear this one over and over. Excellent condition

Appears unworn other then a slight patina to the gold detailing on the banding. Grosgrain ribbon edging on the interior

21" inner circumference

Item# A309

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

John Galliano's years at the house of Dior ended in scandal but during his tenure there he did arguably produce some of the most amazing bias cut gowns in the houses history. His work, especially the bias cut pieces have a feeling of the decadence and abandonment of the twenties and thirties and they are beautifully cut. They marry the old Hollywood feel of those past eras with the minimalist spirit of the nineties and the results are stunning. This is one such dress and it is beautiful. I love the soft colors - they are a mix of yellow, a pale mint and a pastel tangerine intercepted with black and white and laid out in a graphic chevron pattern that covers the entire dress. It is completely cut on the bias and skims and drapes over the body from the scooped neck to the lower hip. The bottom skirt in set into the body of the dress in a pointed design that both plays off the print on the silk and uses a technique derived from the twenties. The skirt itself is made of payers of silk that float and move around the girl wearing the dress to create a beautiful sense of movement. A tightly spaced row of buttons runs down the side of the dress - a signature of his and this adds to the sense of antiquity to the gown. It is very light and stunning on. It also bears the main Christian Dior label of the time so would have been considered demi-couture as opposed to the Boutique label of this time period. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a bias cut off-white silk crepe. It slips on to wear and closes with the series of buttons and fabric loops that run down the side. It appears to have never been worn. The bias cut will allow for a variety of sizes to wear the dress. Note the length does come up when on depending on the size of the girl underneath since it is cut on the bias.

Bust: 15-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 60" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD2437

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