This is one of those instantly recognizable dresses from the time period when Karl Lagerfeld was the designer for the Chloe label. The twin of this dress was photoed by Tony Kent for the March issue of Vogue Paris on Sylvie Vartan. Examples of Karl's work during this time period are held in museums around the world and are rare finds. Their place in fashion history is even more entrenched with his recent passing.

This dress is wonderful. In person it is even better then how it photoed, if that is possible. The skirt really has tremendous movement that is not conveyed in a still photograph. It is actually two separate pieces. A slim cut inner dress and a skirt overlay. The cut of the inner dress is kept simple. The dress is made out of a fine black silk crepe. The bodice is a cut straight across and the dress is suspended from tiny straps that curve up and around each shoulder. The waist is seamed and fitted and the skirt falls to the floor. It skims over the hips and flares out as it reached the hem. Over this is a silk organza over-skirt that has yards and yards of fabric in it. This makes it very full and when you move it is wonderful. You get an idea of the fullness that it has in the reference photo. Onto the silk of the bodice and completely covering the over skirt are hand applied silver sequins and glass tube beads. These are set in little abstract geometric designs around the top of the bodice and all the way around all of that fabric of the skirt. More sequins are scattered between and when the pieces are worn together the effect is fabulous. The inside is all finished by hand and to couture standards.  I love it so much and it is pure magic once on an actual body. Excellent overall condition with a note to review below

The dress fabric is self backed in sating and the bodice is additionally lined in a black silk. It closes with a side set fine painted metal zipper. Hand finished interior to couture standards and all hand work for the beads and sequins that is clearly seen on the back of the fabric. There are some small holes along the waistband of the inner dress. These are covered completely when the skirt is in place. I suspect they are from the hook snagging on the fabric when it was worn over the years. Perhaps the occasional sequin missing. 

Dress
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 17" from neck to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Overskirt
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 45" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3409

Reference Photo: Sylvie Vartan in Chloe by Tony Kent, Vogue Paris, March, 1974

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 was moved from Givenchy to Christian Dior in October of 1996 and stayed there until he was dismissed in February of 2011. The collection from about 2000 to 2011 are covered in full and I was able to spot the runway version of this dress in look 49 from Spring 2007. Women's Wear Daily said of the collection; "His spring message was concise: a smart, discreet suit for day and a beautifully draped dress for night." The collection is also noted as being highly successful at a retail level that season.

The dress is made from a feather light silk that has been dyed to the palest icy blue. The fabric and the way it is cut and draped allows it to hug the bust and then it balloons out in that massive volume that you get just a bit of a feel for on the dress form. On an actual body, once you start to move, the dress really billows and moves around you. The lightness and masterful draping of the fabric comes into play to give it the incredible, voluminous draping that you see. The dress is cut to fit and mold around the bust area on the interiors even though it appears from the outside to be simply draped over you. In reality there is a built in inner structure that hooks to close along the back inside and firmly keeps the dress and that extra low plunge in place. Over the bust area the fabric is pleated and hand placed draped. These eventually expands out into the skirt. The skirt has yards and yards of fabric in it and I love how it is draped around the sides for shape and volume. Once it is on, the innermost part of the skirt falls to the floor and just beyond, and it feels like it is a more true fitted skirt. It is hard to describe but once it is on, it just all falls into place perfectly and is unlike any other dress. It is really extraordinary and very beautiful. Excellent condition with a minor note below

The dress is unlined with a built in inner bodice that hooks to close with a series of lingerie hooks at the back. A panel of fabric snaps over this to hide the hooks and make it appear that there is no seam at the back once it is on. I see one tiny watermark and a small repair to the skirt. These are lost in the folds of the skirt and only seen if you lay it out flat and look for them. You might be able to get another inch or so out of the bust if you did not do up the inner hooks

Bust: 14-14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist-hips: open
Length: 65" from top of shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD3405

Reference Photo: Spring 2007 Dior, Look 49. Model Kamila W.

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 extraordinary dress by Marc Bohan for Dior is very well documented. A version walked the catwalk that season worn by none other than Ines de la Fressange and it was also photoed for the August issue of L'Officiel.

The dress is made from a pale silver grey silk taffeta. This fabric choice allows it to keep its bold silhouette and hold the shape that you see on my photos and the reference photos. This is the kind of dress that you can see just how much of an influence this shape is still having on our current catwalks. I feel that I have seen all the elements of the dress re-done in one way or another over the last few seasons. The shoulders and sleeves are particularly wonderful. They are cut on a slight curve to follow the shape of the arm. Pleats are set all around the shoulder to give them the height and volume that you see. They then narrow down to the wrists. You can see the Victorian era influence on this dress but it still feels fresh and modern. The neckline is high and buttons at the back and the bodice skims over the bust to the waist. At the back there is an open slit that runs all the way from the buttons at the neck to the waist. This sexy little flash of skin is unexpected and I love the contrast this detail has with the high level of coverage the dress has everywhere else. The waist is seamed and the dress has its original wide matching sash in the same silk that you can tie and cinch in the waist even more. I have tied it at the back in the same large bow in the way it was shown in the editorial photo. The skirt skims over the hips to the floor. On either side of the waist a large ruffle starts to form and this curves over the hips and then towards the back where it creates a gorgeous trained effect. A small ruffle peeks out from under there and finishes the front hem. It is gorgeous and I love when a piece is this well documented. Excellent condition with a minor note below

Unlined and closes at the back with a zipper set at the waist and silk covered buttons and loops at the back of the neck. A silk covered button and loop at each wrist. The matching sash is original. Note that it was a little small on the mannequin in the waist area and the opening is not that wide at the lower back when it is on a girl that it fits properly. There are some watermarks on the hem. Please see the photo after the label shot and before the reference photos.

Sleeves: 27"
Shoulders: no true shoulder seams
Bust: to 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 11.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15.5" from neck to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to front hem, 46" to back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD3406

Reference Photos: (1) Ines de la Fressange for Dior /  (2) Model in Christian Dior, L'Officiel, August 1981. Photographed by J-F du Sel des Monts.

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

Bill Blass became the head designer at Maurice Rentner in 1959 and soon after that his name started to appear on the labels. In 1970 he bought out the Maurice Rentner label and re-launched it under his own name. These Bill Blass for Maurice Rentner pieces, are some of his earliest and you will find many of them, like the twin of this coat, in museum collections throughout the world. Blass was arguably one of the most famous of all the American designers. His forte was the ability to mix simple styles with luxurious materials and his evening wear in particular seem to have a way of flattering the wearer even at their most extravagant. This piece has the additional bonus of being able to be worn as either a coat or a dress

This early Bill Blass coat is particularly gorgeous with its metallic gold and deep blue silk brocade fabric. The base of the coat is a deep blue silk. Onto this, in horizontal rows that run over the entire coat, is an incredible and intricate design that has been created out of gold lame and gold thread. The gold pops off the blue base and has a lovely way of catching the light. The coat has a bit of a military feel to it and I love how the pattern is laid out to highlight the high collar and cuffs. Flap pockets are placed on the front of the coat. One on each hip and then two more on each breast. They are perfectly set tot follow the pattern and each has a large bead covered dome button to secure its flap closure. The same big bead covered buttons run down the front giving the coat a neat and polished feel. The shoulders are structured but are not padded. There is a subtle fabric epaulette across the top of each shoulder. The sleeves are long and he took the time to make sure that the fabric lines up with the body of the coat. The fairly simple design of the coat allows that beautiful fabric to take center stage. An interesting thing about this one, it closes all the way to the bottom hem so could be worn as a dress as well. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a blue silk and closes with silk covered snaps hidden behind each hand beaded dome button down the front. All four pockets are functional. Hand finished throughout. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. 

Sleeves: 23"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 37" from neck to hem with 4" turned over under the hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# C542

Reference Photo: Samantha Jones in Bill Blass, photographed by Richard Avedon, Vogue October 1968.

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 patterned version of this coat was photographed for The Daily Telegraph Magazine in September 1973 and featured Jean Shrimpton and Barbara Miller. I am very pleased to have an all black version of it for the shop as it is exceptional

The coat is wonderful. It has those fabulous Art Deco lines that Barbara Hulanicki favored. It is made out of a light black faux fur whose pile lays flat and has a textured feel to it. It is soft and supple and falls beautifully once one. The coat zips up the front to a high funnel neck. It is more fitted through the shoulders and then falls, swinging outwards with quite a good amount of fabric. The shoulders and sleeves are spectacular with that high capped cut Hulanicki became known for. From those wonderful shoulders each sleeve falls, gradually widening out as they near their cuffs. This is from the Big Biba store era. It is a wonderful piece of fashion history and very wearable and chic. Excellent condition 

Fully lined in black silk. It zippers to close at the front and has pockets on each side. Perhaps the lightest of matting to the inside collar (supersize label photo to see). A teeny bit of wear here and there along the edges of the cuffs. Really beautiful condition. Note that these fit high and tight across the shoulders so even though the cut is generous through the body I have added the size of the interior arm hole - its top will sit at the top of the shoulder almost. If that works it will fit a variety of sizes

Sleeves: 25"
Inset shoulders: exterior 13"
Interior arms holes: 14" around
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist-hips: open
Length: 40" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# C467

Reference Photos: Jean Shrimpton and Barbara Miller (both in Biba) by Duffy, The Daily Telegraph Magazine, September 1973.

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

Bill Blass became the head designer at Maurice Rentner in 1959 and soon after that his name started to appear on the labels. In 1970 he bought out the Maurice Rentner label and re-launched it under his own name. These Bill Blass for Maurice Rentner pieces, are some of his earliest and you will find many of them, like the twin of this coat, in museum collections throughout the world. Blass was arguably one of the most famous of all the American designers. His forte was the ability to mix simple styles with luxurious materials and his evening wear in particular seem to have a way of flattering the wearer even at their most extravagant

This early Bill Blass coat is particularly gorgeous with its bead and silver threaded fabric. The base of the coat is a deep dark brown velvet that has a rich feel. The brown and silver combination gives it more interest then if it had been a more basic black. Onto the velvet is an incredible and intricate design that has been created out of hand placed and sewn silver thread. The thread pops off the velvet base and has a lovely way of catching the light. The collar, ends of each cuff, down the front of the coat and the hem are padded and piped and this helps the coat to maintain its design and shape. It also gives the coat a neat and polished finish. The shoulders are structured but without any padding. The sleeves are slightly cropped and each one is cut to widen out as they hear their padded ends. It closes down the front with a series of silk covered, hidden snaps so that when it is closes there are no buttons showing to break the lines of the coat. This simple design allows that beautiful fabric to take center stage. Panels of silver tube beads set in a 'braid' pattern follow alongside all of the padded, piped parts of the coat for the perfect final detailing. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a matching brown cotton and closes at the front with silk covered hand set hidden snaps. Pockets along the seam on each hip. Hand finished throughout. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. 

Sleeves: 20.5"
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 40" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# C541

Reference Photo: 1968 Bill Blass coat from the Indianapolis Museum of Art 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.

True Haute Couture pieces by Chanel are an extraordinary find as they are so very rare and hard to come by. This one, like several other of the Haute Couture pieces in the shop at the moment, are from one of my clients whose mother purchased the majority of her Couture pieces between 1973 to the mid and late seventies.

The dress is made of two layers. There is an inner silk dress that acts as the lining, and then an outer layer over that, made from a semi-transparent silk chiffon. The silk chiffon used on the outer layer is especially fine and it has a beautiful red floral design screened onto the black with a secondary print suggesting an exotic animal print. The straps of the inner dress are made of that same fabric as is the matching belt that cinches in the waist. When the two pieces are layered over each other the result is wonderful. The outer dress gives the dress a very light and airy feel that is very feminine. The dress is so well made that I could not decide which way it sat better. I decided to photograph it both ways. First with the buttons down the front and then with it turned around to have the buttons run down the back. The neckline is collarless and simply ties above the row of silk covered buttons that start a slit keyhole between them and the tie. The bodice is cut to sit looser over the inner slip and the sleeves are full, poufing up above their buttoned cuffs. The skirt is a masterpiece of soft pleat work all the way around the hips. Each individual pleat is done by hand and precisely spaced. These give the skirt it's flounced feel. The matching silk fabric belt hook and ties into place to cinch in the waist. As good as it is on the dress form, it will be even better on an actual body. It is entirely made by hand and has its Haute Couture tag and numbered tape behind the tag present on the interior dress. Excellent condition

The exterior dress is unlined and closes with a tie at the neck and silk covered buttons. It has an inner waist stay that hooks to close. The interior dress act as the lining and closes with a handset side painted metal zip. Matching original belt. Finished to Haute Couture standards. Haute Couture label present with interior tape number 54878. The dress appears to have been worn very little if at all.

Outer Dress
Sleeves: 24.5"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 16" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 28" from waist to hem

Inner Dress
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 42" from top of shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3010

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 Valentino is very similar to the work he was doing for the 1977 season that was so beautifully captured by Deborah Turbeville for the Fall campaign. I have included several reference photos of the similar gowns from the Haute Couture season that year and you can see how this one would have evolved form those for the boutique line

The dress is made from a feather light silk crepe chiffon in his signature shade of red. The fabric choice allows for the sense of airiness that the dress has once it is on and that beautiful shape. The bodice is strapless and is kept very simple with a straight across cut and inner boning on the sides so it stays on place. Two rows of those silk ruffles run around it and they are set so that just a few inches at the waist is left to be seen. This gives you some shape through the waist and keep the dress from being one solid column of nothing but ruffles. The skirt falls to the floor from there, gradually widening out as it nears the hem. Here the ruffles take center stage and fully cover the skirt in horizontal rows that slightly overlap each other. These run fully down the length of the skirt from waist to hem. The lightness of the silk allows them to move with the slightest bit of movement on your part. The effect that this creates is wonderful. It is a beautiful and romantic dress and showcases the best of Valentino's work. Excellent condition with one minor note below

Fully lined in a red silk and closes with a back metal and nylon zipper. Light boning in the sides of the bodice. I see one very faint mark on one ruffle to the side of the waist at the front. Please review the photo after the label shot. Note the back will close completely on the right sized frame. It was just a touch small on my dress form.

Bust: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 9" from top of the bodice to waist
Skirt: 44.5" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD3403

Reference Photos: Valentino Fall/Winter 1977 campaign photographed by Deborah Turbeville. (Model in Photo 1: Malgosia Bela)

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

After emigrating to the US in 1933, Rudi Gernreich started working in theater as a costume designer. He worked under Gilbert Adrian for a few years and eventually started his own small independent label in 1948 while still working for various other labels through to the 1952. At this point he started to develop the basis of some of the knits he would become known for while working for  the JAX boutique and doing freelance for several department stores. In 1960, Gernreich finally launched his own company and in 1964 renamed it Rudi Gernreich Inc. He is best known for his own label's work and the work that he was doing for Harmon knits in the 1960s and 1970s. Pieces like this dress are now regraded as being highly collectible.

This dress is from the 1971 season and several variations of this print were done and documented that season. His fascination with this graphic check print seems to have consumed him full force during this time period. Here we see three variations of the check used to maximum effectiveness. The top portion of the dress is done in a small red and navy check. The sleeves are more red in feel with a slightly larger so;id blue check running vertically down them. This balances out the skirt which is cut to be more full. Here the checks are of the same size and are quite large. The original belt that comes with the dress has the same check as the top and it anchors the entire design. The bodice is cut to be fitted and the skirt is set so that is has volume. It is made of his signature light wool knit. It is very rare to see a piece that still has its belt so I am happy to have had that come with it. It is a magnificent statement dress and highly collectible. Excellent condition with some small notes below.

Unlined and closes with a painted back zipper. The belt is backed with leather. The fabric around the round buckle shows signs of separating from the backing but still presents well. I see two nicks out of the fabric that I have photoed. I had this cleaned and temperature treated and the fabric seems stable. Please review the photos after the label shot and before the reference photos. Tagged a vintage S.

Sleeves: 23"
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 16-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 31" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3402

Reference Photos: (1) 1971 Rudi Gernreich Dress from the Indianapolis Museum of Art Collection.  /  (2-3) Peggy Moffitt in Rudi Gernreich, Fall 1971. Photographed by William Claxton.

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

Pauline Trigere launched her label in 1942. She had moved to the US from Paris in 1937 and her designs always have that bit of a French feel to them. By 1949 she had been awarded a Coty and won one again in both 1951 and 1959. The 1959 win coincided with being inducted into the Coty Fashion Hall of Fame. She as a pioneer in the use of cottons and wool for evening, In 1961 she made headlines for being the first major fashion house to use amply an African American model. The 1972 collection used variations of the floral motif all through it and I believe that this dress us from the spring of that year.

That gorgeous tulip print that has been done in a brilliant green set against a inky black backdrop is the first thing you see. The fabric is a fine semi-sheer cotton voile  that feels like it has a touch of silk in it as well. The fabric choice holds that brilliant color beautifully. The touch of transparency to it combined with setting it over the inner black lining gives it a bit of added depth and really allows the green to pop. The top is has simple lines with an almost box cut through the body. There is the subtlest of gathers along the shoulders for a little bit of detailing. The sleeves are a single unlined layer of the fabric and have elastics at each wrist. This allows then to have a slight balloon effect once it is on. It snaps to close down the front with hidden set snaps and they begin at about the bust area. This then tucks into the skirt whose front is cut in a kind of modified sarong. The front knot that you see is built into the front of the skirt's design and this leaves an little cut out above and below the ties. The skirt then falls from there in one long and lean line. A very high slit runs up the center of the skirt. This is one of those pieces that may look like nothing special off the body or on the dress form but once it is on an actual body it comes to life. It is an unusual design and quite forward for its time period. Excellent condition with one note to review below

Both pieces are lined with a semi-sheer black silk voile except for the sleeves. The top closes with a series of hidden set snaps at the front and elastic in each wrist. The skirt zips to close with a flat hook and eye on the waist band. There is a little tag that says front on the waist band and I believe that it is meant to flip in when on but could easily be worn like a normal band if you moved the little front tag. There is the teeniest of pulls to the fabric above the first snap of the top. With the print and where it is it is negligible. Please see the last photo after the shot of the label 

Top
Sleeves: 25"
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust-hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 25" from neck to hem

Skirt
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 44" from waist to hem
Slit: 25" from hem up

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3397

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

Ferdinando Sarmi was an actual Italian Count and started his design career working for the Elizabeth Arden couture salon during the 1950s. In 1959 he ventured off on his own and launched his label. He designed for just over a decade before closing up shop. During those ten or so years he was known for his evening wear especially. The fabrics he chose were often opulent or very difficult to work with. This dress is very similar to the one photoed for Vogue in 1961, just with a different fabric design.

I love this dress. The volume through the skirt is expansive and the fabric choice is wonderful. Using the silk chiffon for the dress gives it a feeling of lightness and fantasy as it floats around you once on. You can get a sense of just how much movement it has in that wonderful photo for Vogue. The silk has a hint of transparency to it that gives it an interesting visual effect when the floral design falls over itself as the silk moves. The bodice is cut strapless and fitted and the silk there is gathered across the bust. The waist is accented with a large deep green silk bow at the front. From there the skirt gently widens to a beautiful fullness in a cascade of silk. It is very light and airy feeling when on but inside the construction is immaculate with a fully boned corseted foundation to keep it perfectly in place. I love the romantic feel of the floral print that covers the dress and the soft pastels are wonderful. Excellent overall condition with notes to review below

Fully lined in a pale yellow silk through the skirt and the bodice is finished in silk with an inner corset made of a cotton net. It closes with a back, hand set painted metal zipper. Hand finished. Fully boned inner bodice. Made to demi-couture standards. There is a watermark in some areas down the front and there are repairs and grubbiness to the hem in areas. Because of the amount of fabric through the skirt you would never notice these once on. Please review the photos after the label. Marked well below what it would be otherwise regardless

Dress
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 6.5" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 45" from waist to front hem, 40" to back

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3394

Reference Photo: Model on left in Sarmi dress, model on right in Scaasi, Vogue, February 1961. Photo by Bert Stern.

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

Jean-Louis Scherrer was on of the great French couturiers in the grand Parisian style. He counted Sophia Loren and Jackie Kennedy as fans in his heyday and his work in the 1970s especially was wonderful. Opulence, hand beading and rich passementerie were his trademarks. He launched his own Haute Couture house after working at Christian Dior and stayed there until his dismissal in 1992. By that time period he had sold out all but 10% of his company. In 1977, the year that this gown was made, he was just reaching the top of his game as a couturier.

This dress, with its matching ruffled silk shawl, is tiny but perfect. I love the soft yellow silk organza that has been used for the skirt and the shawl. This choice of fabric allows it to have the volume that you see but without adding any weight at all. The skirt is cut to skim over the hips and that drops to that first extravagant ruffle. There are three ruffles in total that circle the skirt and each is wide and has yards of fabric in them. The skirt under the ruffles gradually widens as it reaches the hem. The movement and airiness the skirt creates in person is amazing. The shawl is made of the same silk as the skirt and is very long and finished with the same ruffled treatment we see on the skirt. It can be wrapped or just lightly held. Once this is removed that bodice of the dress is revealed and here is the true magic. It is strapless and fitted to the bust which balances against the volume of the skirt perfectly. Tiny sequins are hand placed to create that stunning floral design that you see. The edges of the green sequin leaves are done in the smallest glass tube beads. Little glass crystals edge other parts of the design and create a border across the top of the bodice. The workmanship is exquisite and the care and time to have created the design using only the finest, smallest of beads and sequins is astonishing. The entire dress is finished to Haute Couture standards and it is even more beautiful in person. Excellent condition with a small note to review below

Fully lined in the same silk organza that is used on the exterior. All of the work throughout is done by hand done to the edgings of the inner seams. It zips to close with a painted metal zipper and the exterior skirt snaps to close over the zipper. An inner waist stay hooks to close. The bodice is lightly boned. It will of course close all the way but was small on my dress form. I see one tiny dot of a mark just under the bodice seam and a tiny repair near the base of the back closure. Numbered tag 002576

Bust: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 9" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem
Shawl: 9' long x just over 5' wide

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD3393

Reference Photos: (1) 1976-1977 Fall-Winter Women's haute couture runway show.  /  (2) Jean Louis Scherrer with model, 1977.

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

Todd Oldham showed his first collection in 1981 and officially launched his label in 1989. In 1991 he won the Perry Ellis Award for New Fashion Talent. By 1992 when the twin of this suit was shown on the runway he was on fire and everyone who anyone was a fan. His shows were extravagant and full of the reigning supermodels. His clothes were loud and in-your-face, but also sophisticated and beautiful. This is a rare suit from the Spring of 1992 and it comes with a matching top that was also shown on the runway. Both fabrics were shown in the runway that seasons and a twin of the top is held in the Met Museums permanent archives.

The stripe and floral print were not shown together on the runway that season but they sure do make a dramatic statement when worn as a three pieces set. The skirt and jacket are made with a rainbow striped fabric that has a black base and then ribbons of color are sewn individually, one by one, onto the base. The skirt is a slim cut pencil and the jacket is cut broader through the shoulders and then narrows in at the waist. The tailoring is impeccable and that fabric would have all been made by hand. I love the huge custom enamel buttons that close the jacket. The top is a synthetic organza that has a huge, bright floral print covering its surface. The rainbow theme is carried over to there with the jeweled buttons that are each a different color. You can wear these together as shown for a dramatic feel, or break it up and stay more true to t e runway. Excellent condition 

The jacket and top both button to close and the skirt closes with a hidden set side zipper. The pockets on the jacket are shallow but functional and the sleeves button at each cuff. Both the jacket and skirt are lined in a black silky rayon and the top is unlined. All three pieces are labeled and none look to have been worn, or were worn very little. All are tagged a size LRG.

Jacket
Sleeves: 22.5"
Exaggerated shoulders: 18"
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 22" from neck to hem

Skirt
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 20" from waist to hem

Top
Sleeves: 23"
Slightly dropped shoulders: 16"
Bust: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 25" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# S901

Reference Photos: (1-4) S/S 1992 Todd Oldham Runway.  /  (5) S/S 1992 Todd Oldham ensemble 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.

Andre Courreges made these amazing little faux leather coats out of a coated vinyl starting around 1963 and into the early 1970s. The vinyl give it a more sporty look and was also considered to be a cutting edge fabric during this time period. It also features his logo prominently on the front which was also rather daring for this era. He was one the first designers to do this.

This can be worn as either a coat or a dress with something underneath. It is belted for definition through the waist and the big pockets at the front act as both a design feature and give it a sense of utility. His signature coated snaps do up the front and at the back there is a row hidden under the vent that allows you to close it for a more dress feel or leave them open so that the bottom skirting has more volume and functions more like a coat. It is cut to skim over the body and be more fitted through the top. Courreges himself once commented on the perfect fit saying that is “was somewhere between a youthful and optimistic inventiveness, and a concept of fashion embracing the platonic ideal of perfect form. What was needed was to apply new technical and aesthetic rules and to create a modern style that was easy to wear”.  This is one of the much rarer originals in one of the best and most coveted of the colors - the brilliant orange. Excellent overall condition with notes to review below

The jacket snaps to close at the front and it has its original belt that also snaps into place. More snaps close the back vent and each cuff. The pockets zipper as seen. Inside, the lining can be fully removed and snaps into place. It is tagged a Courreges size 0. There are a few tiny nicks out of the vinyl exterior and the slightest, tiniest bit of wear near the logo. Minor wear to the paint on a couple of the snaps and a touch of grubbiness to one pocket flap. Inside the lining has some small missing areas. The exterior flaws are normal wear and patina for this fabric and it presents as excellent. The interior issues are minor and the fabric is strong and stable.

Sleeves: 22"
Shoulders: 14 3/4"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from neck to waist
Skirt: 29" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# C539

Reference Photos: (1) Model in Courreges, L'Officiel c.1970s.  /  (2) 1963-69 Courreges Coat 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.

Jacques Tiffeau was one of the vanguard designers whose clothes were designed with a young, more affluent and fashion-conscious costumer in mind. He was a trained tailor who turned down a job at the Dior ateliers and instead launched his own ready-to-wear label, Tiffeau-Busch,  in 1958 in partnership with Beverly Pruzan Busch where pieces were also produced, like this one, that only bore his name. Plaid became a bit of a signature for him and Lauren Hutton wore a similar cut coat to this one in 1967 for Vogue.

This set has two pieces, the coat and its original skirt in a matching fabric. The skirt is tinier through the waist but the coat is cut with a more generous size. This means a girl who fits the coat can buy it to wear on its own and just have the skirt as a bonus piece. Both pieces are made out of a textured fabric that feel like perhaps a wool silk mix. This style was called the Cardigan coat by Vogue dues to its easy cut and collarless design. It sits more sleek and flat at the front and then the back has a yoke under the shoulders and the fabric then is gathered into that and falls with more volume at the back. Big glossy brown buttons close it at the front and the sleeves are finished with a flat piping that matches the treatment at the neck. The skirt is cut slim and to just above the knee. Excellent condition

The coat buttons to close down the front with additional silk covered snaps. The skirt zips to close with a painted metal zipper. Both pieces are lined in an ivory silk. Proper buttonholes. They look to have been worn very little if at all. The skirt is an XS due to the waist but the coat should fit a bit wider range. It is priced based on the coat alone.

Coat
Sleeves: 20"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist:-hips: open
Length: 38" from neck to hem

Skirt:
Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 22" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# C538

Reference Photo: Lauren Hutton in Jacques Tiffeau by Irving Penn, Vogue, February 1967.

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

Scott Barrie was one of a group of black designers and models based out of New York's Seventh Avenue in the late 1960s. He quickly became known for his sensual designs and in particular, his evening wear. Naomi Sims was a fan and often was spotted wearing his work. His label closed in the early 1980s. He then worked at Krizia, remaining there up to just before his passing in 1993 of brain cancer. This gives us a very small window for finding examples of his work. The earlier pieces especially were produced in very limited amounts. The very early pieces were made by him out of his apartment on a makeshift cutting table and domestic sewing machine. To me this makes each of his found pieces that much more special.

This dress is stunning and shows his range with fabric and the more romantic side of his work. He is best known for his work in stretch jerseys but I  love this silk chiffon example. This dress has the added bonus of having a all black version of it photoed for Vogue in 1973 so we know the exact date it is from. It is very sexy in a very pretty and romantic kind of way. It is made from a bias cut silk chiffon that is printed with huge pink and coral tropical flowers on a vivid green backdrop. The lightness of the fabric choice makes it feel like the silk floats around you when you move. The bodice is fitted at the front and each sleeve is a pretty flutter of silk. The back is left completely open and bare with a small ruffle of silk edging the opening. It is just absolutely stunning. Excellent condition with a note to review below

Fully lined in a green tissue silk and closes with a low back zipper and ties behind the neck. There are some small marks on the skirt here and there - they do not detract because of the pattern but are present if you inspect it closely and flat with the fabric spread out. I photoed the ones I found and it is priced with this taken into account. The fabric is otherwise strong and stable. The zipper did not do up all the way on the dress form but does close properly on someone the correct waist size.

Bust: variable with no true side seams
Waist: 11-11.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from neck to slightly dropped waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to front hem, 44" to the back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS

Item# DD1262

Reference Photo: Apollonia in Scott Barrie for Vogue US, September 1973. Photo by Richard Avedon.

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

Yves Saint Laurent only created six Haute Couture collections for the House of Dior which makes the few garments found from those collections very special. The Fall 1958 season was his second collection for the house and this collection was presented to Princess Margaret and guests at Blenheim Palace. This coat is  from that season and 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. The design of the coat builds on the Trapeze line of his first collection for Dior. In the book it is noted as being a ‘Courbe line’ or curved line design. It is extraordinarily beautiful and a true piece of fashion history.

The coat is made from a navy blue silk satin and is cut with the volume that Yves brought to the collection that season. This would have be considered to have been a ‘Petite Theatre’, or more formal evening coat, during this time period. A neat rounded collar wraps in a curve around the neck and closes just off to the side to sit perfectly above the row of buttons that run down that side. Those buttons are one half of the double row of large silk covered buttons that finish the front of the coat. Under each is a perfectly made button hole and all the work is done by hand. Vertical seams run down each side of the buttons and are gracefully set on a slight curve. Pockets are hidden along their curve so that their lines seem unbroken. The back has more volume then the front and this fullness is created by an inverted pleat that opens from just under the back collar and extends down to the hem, opening as it goes. From the side, this treatment almost gives it a caped back feel. The silk used is of the highest possible quality and there is an almost sensual sensation when wearing the coat. It appears to have bee worn very little and is in outstanding condition. The original, numbered Haute Couture label is present and the coat is made entirely by hand to the standards demanded of Haute Couture. This is an exquisite example of Yves work during his early years at Dior and an outstanding piece of Haute Couture from one of the most important houses of our modern era. 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. Hand done, proper button holes. Pockets are hidden at each hip along the seams. The coat looks to have been worn very little if it all. The coat is meant to fit slightly oversized so should fit a variety of sizes. It's Haute Couture tag is present, numbered and the coat is of course made to Haute Couture standards

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.

The duo behind the La Mendola label met in Rome in 1960 and started their business making dresses and selling them one by one, piece by piece. In 1967 they opened a shop and women like Elizabeth Taylor and Rita Hayworth become steadfast clients who were buying, and even wait listing for pieces as they were produced. They were located in Italy and their atelier closed in 1974.

In the past I had a custom made La Mendola dress come in the shop and the original owner had kept the available fabric swatch options for 1972. The prints were done in house and were named. This dress is a version of the Paridiso print. The fabric is gorgeous. The dress itself is made from their classic silk jersey that took the color and print of their designs exceedingly well. It also has a matching skirt overlay in silk chiffon that uses the same peacock feather print. The pinks used on the print are gorgeous and it is even better on person then how it photoed. The drama and impact that it created once on an actual body is amazing and the skirt adds an extra dimension of lightness and movement. The dress has a high neck and a simple cut through the bodice and sleeves. It skims over the waist and then gradually widens out as it nears the hem. At the back, it closes with their signature, tightly spaced buttons that they always covered in the same fabric as the garment. Over this is goes a silk chiffon split paneled skirt that ties into place. The skirt is a single layer of silk chiffon and is set along its waist band with spacing between the two panels. This leaves a long slit on each side of the dress underneath to show through. Together the are absolutely beautiful. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes at the back with that row of tightly spaced, silk covered buttons. The over skirt ties onto place as you wish. The fabric has stretch and this combined with the easy design of the dress will allow it to work on a variety of sizes. Hand finished throughout. The measurements given are the comfortable stretch when laid out flat. The over-skirt waist is adjustable with the ties. The photo of the swatches is from that previous dress. The actual swatch card is not included 

Sleeves: 22.5"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 16.5-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 15.5-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 60" from neck to hem
Over-skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD3389

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 gorgeous dress from the last years of Marc Bohan's grand career as head of Dior is from the Fall 1980 collection. In the book Dior; Catwalk, the notes on the fall collection state that the collection notes read that; "Bohan was inspired by 'Baroque fancies and pre-Raphaelite chinoiserie'." and that "the designer created 'sinuous and subble bias cut evening dresses pleated 'a la Fortuny". This dress has the added provenance of having been photoed on Michelle Monaghan before it was released from my archives.

This two piece dress from that Haute Couture collection has that pleating technique use in its constructed as mentioned above and it is very beautiful. The inner dress is a fine, almost weightless silk chiffon with a simple double layer of silk chiffon that has been used to create the bodice that skims over the torso. The waist of this inner piece is cut loose and easy for comfort. The skirt has an extraordinary three full layers of silk, layered over each other. The outer exterior layer is finely pleated in a series of perfectly done, 1/8th of an inch pleats, that circle all the way around. The edges are finished with tiniest of stitches that have all been done meticulously by hand. All of the interior work is by hand as well. Lying over this is a loose tunic feeling overlay that is made out of a fine, silk chiffon. Worked into the silk are hundreds of dots made from a feather soft silk velvet that has been fused to the base fabric. The sleeves are full and cut so that the widen out quite a bit as they near the ends. They are unlined so that you get a touch of transparency to them and the dot pattern is really highlighted. They each end in an angled V shape that pick up that same angular shaped panel that drapes down from the neckline. The neck is cut high and again this part is left unlined for just a glimpse of skin underneath. At the back is a large bow that snaps into place so that you can wear it on or off. I have shown this worn to the back but this set is so well made that you could easily turn it around and wear it to the front I think. The versatility of the two pieces is wonderful, you can wear them together or break them up and mix with other pieces. The tunic would look as equally chic over a slim black trouser and you can combine the inner piece with a sweater or other top. The tunic is just ling enough to wear on its own if you dare. Excellent condition with a minor note to review below

The inner dress is composed of two layers that are hand sewn together through the bodice and three silk layers through the skirt. It closes with a hand set side zipper with hidden snaps to cover the fabric over the zipper below the waist. There is a button at the back of the neck and an inner waist stay that hooks to close. The tunic slips on the wear with three hook & eye at the back of the neck. Lightly padded shoulders and the bow snaps into place. There has been some softening to the pleating of the skirt near the bottom. It would be possible to iron them back in with care.

Tunic
Sleeves: 25" to longest points
Shoulders: 16"
Bust: to 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist-hips: open
Length: 39" from neck to longest point of hem

Under Dress
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD1717

Reference Photos: (1) Michelle Monaghan for Rhapsody Magazine by Jane + Jane (Boondock Agency). Stylist: Amanda Lee Shirreffs, Makeup: Ann Pala, Hair: Anne Morgan, Manicurist: Leanne Colley. Click here to see this entire shoot in our lookbooks >  /  (2) 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 is a beautiful example of Halston's work during this time period. He was a master at combining function and ease but without sacrificing glamour. He did this with the absolute minimum of seaming that a garment required. His bias cut pieces like this one, sometimes feel somewhat shapeless on the hanger or dress form and it is only when they are slipped on that they drape and settle into place the way they were intended. They seem so very simple but they are not. A similar dress to this example was photoed for Vogue in 1974

The dress is entirely cut on the bias with that minimal seaming signature that I spoke of above. The color is a beautiful clear red that is flattering on most skin tones. It is feather light and it weighs ounces once it is on. The cut through the body is extremely loose and easy. There is an elastic at the waist but it is there as almost an afterthought as it does not cinch in the waist at all. It is more there to give the piece the slightest of shape and add to the soft gathers. The neckline is deep and can be worn with an even lower plunge if you leave the hidden snaps open. There are attached ties above the slit front of the neck and the collar is a double layer of flounced silk ruffles. Each sleeve is soft and full and these end with a ruffle finish. The skirt is full and open. The matching silk sash can be worn wrapped around the waist to add shape. You could also wear it wrapped turban style or at the neck. If the sash is not worn the dress has a more full, caftan feel and will land between mid-calf and ankle length depending on your height. If cinched at the waist, the length pulls up more to land between knee and calf. Excellent overall condition with a note to review below

The body and skirt of the dress are constructed from two layers of bias cut silk chiffon. The sleeves and shoulders are unlined. It is entirely bias cut and just slips over the head to wear. Ties at the neck and a very wide elastic at the waist. Each cuff is finished with elastic above the ruffled ends. The sash is original. Hand finished. Note that there are some marks on the front skirt toward the side closer to the hem. The volume and cut effectively hide these once on but they are there. I photoed ir for your reference and it is shown in the photo after the label shot. The easy cut will allow it to fit a full range of sizes

Sleeves: approx  23"
Shoulders: no defined shoulder seams
Bust: to 22-25" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 20-23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: to 20" from top of bodice to dropped waist
Skirt: 35" from dropped waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-XL

Item# DD2992

Reference Photo: (1) Model wearing Halston. Photo by Richard Avedon. Vogue US, December 1974.  /  (2-3) 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 coat would have been designed while Youssef Rizkallah headed the company. Youseef joined the Malcolm Starr label in 1969 and remained as the head designer until 1975. The years that Youssef headed the line are among some of my favorites and in particular his pieces that utilize quilting and patchwork are truly iconic. Rizkallah was born in Egypt and studied at the Ecole de dessin appliqué and the Ecole des arts decoratifs in Paris. His designs seem to combine that sense of couture lines that he gained in Paris with the color and vividness of his homeland.

This is a wonderful piece that can be worn as either a coat or a dress thanks to the zip front that completely opens. It has the added provenance of being the twin to the one featured in the ad campaign for 1970. The base of the coat is a black fabric that feels like a light wool that has a slight ribbed texture in it. The entire coat is detailed with a combination of a red braiding and red ric rac that follows the lines of the coat so emphasize the pattern and cut. Elaborate designs adorn run over the body of the piece and all around the hem. Pops of a white cotton are used to  create even more drama. A floral patchwork is set into all of this on big curving and angular cuts that anchor the design and give a pop of contrast to the the starkness of the red, black and white. The collar has a beautifully curved cut out to it and the skirting of the piece flares out dramatically and is quite wide. The sleeves are deliberately kept simple so that all you see is that spectacular design through the body of the dress/coat. It is dramatic, wonderful and rare. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a hand set red silk and closes down the front with an unpainted silver zipper. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Tagged a vintage 8

Sleeves: 22"
Slightly dropped shoulders: 16.5"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 44" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# C536

Reference Photo: "The Malcolm Starr All Starrs" Ad, 1970.

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 by designers like Pierre Cardin during this time period. This was the beginning of the movement of treating fur more like a fabric and making coats that had far more style to them then the previous norm. I am no expert on furs but believe this it is Fitch. The color is a rich deep brown that has an undertone ranging from a soft taupe to a creamy ivory. The fur is supple, shiny and very soft. The fur is set in horizontal rows with bands of a black suede in between. It is cut in a classic sixties cut that flares out as it reaches the bottom hem. The sleeves are incredible and each widens out to a flare finish at the cuff. It does up with hooks at the front and the collar is deep and rounded. Pockets sit along the edge of one of the rows at each hip. 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 deep brown silky rayon and closes with the fur hooks down the front. Pockets on each hip. I see no bald spots or shedding, the pelts are supple and soft. There is slight wear at some of the common points - near the hooks and the edges of the sleeves, but it is very minor. The fur has no odd odor, is still supple and is stable with no signs of any shedding that would indicate that it is breaking down.

Sleeves: 26"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: to 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 42" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# C534

Reference Photos: (1) Model in Pierre Cardin, 1966.  /  (2) Hiroko Matsumoto photographed in a white fur coat by Pierre Cardin, 1966.

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 a small collection of historically important, key designer labelled vintage furs and fur trimmed 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. Fur coats are final sale.