This beautiful Emilio Pucci dress is made out of one of his signature silk jerseys. Covering every square inch of it is a stunning print that is a mix of different tones of blue, grey and whites, all mixed together like a master. The bodice crosses over itself and is then detailed at the waist with a contrasting printed border. This border also circles the neckline for added detail. Each cuff is also finished with this contrasting print and covers each wide cuff that the sleeves end in. The cut is a simple and classic with a slight A-line cut as the skirt nears its hem. The sleeves are long and simple with a slight pouf to them. I love those wide cuffs that finish each sleeve off perfectly. This is a classic Pucci silhouette that is instantly recognizable and very sexy despite it not being super form fitting. I love all the contrasting print panels that give the cut visual definition. This mix of blues is always one of my favorite of his prints. They are just soft and pretty and suit pretty much any skin tone. Excellent condition.

Unlined and closes with a painted metal zipper at the side. Tagged a vintage Pucci 12 but of course, check the actual measurements. The fabric does have slight stretch. Each cuff closes with hidden set snaps

Sleeves: 27"
Shoulders: 14"
Bust: 16-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15" from neck to middle of waist
Skirt: 28" from middle of waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2718

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 such a huge Hanae Mori fan and this particular dress is absolutely wonderful. It still feels so fresh and modern even after all the years that have passed since it would have originally been made. The neck is gently scooped at the front with a little ties there and it softly blouses out to the waist. It is sleeveless with an angled cut that leads to the silk straps that wrap around the neck. The skirt flows to the floor in a perfect soft flowing column of silk. It flares out gently as it nears the hem and this allowed Hanae to fully showcase the print that she has wrapped around the lower skirt to its full advantage. The dress is made of the top printed layer of silk chiffon that you see and then inner layer is a nude silk chiffon. The skirt has an additional silk layer under that as well. Even with the layers the dress weighs almost nothing. Once the dress is slipped on, it simply floats around you.The outermost silk has been custom screened with one of her beautiful prints and it is a striking combination of neutral taupe and browns with vivid pops of blue and coral. The design is pure Hanae and the print is just extraordinary and beautiful depicting a sunrise over a beautiful floral backdrop. Excellent condition with one minor note below.

The bodice is interlined lined with a nude silk chiffon and layers of a nude silk chiffon and a pale blue silk line the skirt. It closes at the back with a series of hand covered snaps down the back and these also close the exterior skirt over the zipper that closes the inner lining. There are the lightest faintest little marks here and there on the skirt - maybe faint water marks? They are not seen unless laid out flat and when its on you would never notice. mentioned for accuracy. Hand finished throughout to demi-couture standards. Cut on the bias but waist is seamed

Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Lining hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: approx 17" from top of bodice to slightly dropped waist
Skirt: 39" from slightly dropped waist seam to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3101

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 had this Jean Varon tucked away for a long time because it is so amazing it was hard to let go of. It looks like it was never worn and is incredible condition. From its bare cut top to the beautifully flared skirt, it falls to the floor in yards and yards of a taupe crepe jersey that has the slightest hint of a sheen to its finish. This fabric choice really allows the dress to drape and move wonderfully. It's a definite statement maker and everything about it screams red carpet, Grecian goddess and sex appeal. The skirt is cut on the bias so that it feels like a column when you stand still but when you move, it moves with you and you get a sense of the amount of fabric that was used to construct the skirt. The top is a masterpiece with a halter top cut to plunge to the just below the bust and curve over the shoulders. The first waist seam is set high and just under the bust. Fabric is gathered under this vertically and then a second seam hugs the natural waist to give the dress a Grecian feel. Under the second seam is a flaring hip peplum. The sides are left completely bare with the shoulders extending down into the low waist of the back. These cross over straps that extend from under the bust at the front to create a grid at the side and back that keep the dress in place but leave the sides and back completely bare. I love that the seams that define the bust and waist are highlight with cording in a combination of a metallic gold and taupe. This is old Hollywood meets Madame Gres meets an ancient Grecian goddess and it is fabulous. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with a low back set zipper and hook & eye to close each of the straps at the back. Note that it was too tiny for my dress form and of course zips and closes perfectly on the correct sized girl. It appears to have never been worn or worn very little. The color is slightly paler in person. Hand finished

Waist: 12" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15.5" from top of shoulder to bottom of the waist
Skirt: 42" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-SM

Item# DD3100

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

These early Louis Feraud pieces are highly collectible and in their day they were sought after. Women like Elizabeth Taylor and Brigitte Bardot were huge fans. During the sixties and early seventies the Feraud label was known world wide for piece that incorporated vibrant prints and gorgeous graphic designs. This full length maxi dress is a striking example of just that. The jersey is of the wash and wear variety and this fabric choice beautifully holds the color.. The design is as vibrant as the day it was screened on. I love how the design is done to cover the body completely but the jersey fabric still drapes and clings to every curve so it is still insanely sexy. That bright design highlights the cut of the dress from neck to hem. I love the mix of the print and the unexpected pops of color worked in with the blue and green. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with buttons and fabric loops at the back neck as well as a painted metal side set zipper. Each wrist buttons to close. The fabric is a light weight jersey so it will have a bit of stretch from the listed measurements.

Sleeves: 24"
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 18-19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13.5-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 56" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3095

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 wonderful little dress is a testament to the greatness of James Galanos, who was one of the great American Couturiers. Galanos made couture-level dresses and the level of craftsmanship to them that left France’s most esteemed couturiers with their mouths agape. The immaculate construction of a Galanos piece oozed luxury, privilege, and high society (with price points to match). He was a master cutter and he used couture techniques in his work. Here he uses a fine and lightweight silk chiffon. Every detail on it is perfect and every seam is placed to ensure that the dress falls and sits properly once on and that it will flatter the person wearing it. It is extremely light and has a 'floating' feel to it and yet, at the same time it still feels like a properly constructed couture level garment. The fabric is a fine silk chiffon that is knife pleated through the front of the dress, and on the sleeves, with meticulously matched pleat-work. It is cut with a straight line through the body and then this slightly flares out at the hem with the opening of the pleats. The sleeves are fantastic with each of them done in the same knife pleating technique as the front of the dress. The back is a smooth panel of silk chiffon so the shape does not get too voluminous. The perfect final touch are the large, black crystal rhinestone encrusted dome buttons that run down the front of the dress and sit on each cuff. They are the perfect bit of glitz and glamour to offset the refined elegance the dress has. It is an amazing original Galanos piece that is beautifully made. Excellent condition.

Remarkably I believe that this dress has four full layers of silk chiffon in its make up through the body. The sleeves are unlined, but you only see through them when the pleats move slightly to give you a glimpse of the more sheer parts because of the way the pleats are constructed. It buttons  to closes down the front and each cuff has a button. Lots of couture level details and high end finishes.

Shoulders: 15"
Sleeves: 25" long but meant to pouf a bit above the cuff once buttoned up
Bust: to 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 42" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3081

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 Muir is renowned for her wonderfully cut clothing and her use of fluid flowing jerseys. This gorgeous little dress is an outstanding example of both of those things with the added bonus of having some of the most amazing buttons I have ever seen on a dress. It is so chic in person. Her dresses really do need a real body under them to show the cut and drape off to full advantage and the dress form never does one full justice. The base fabric is made from her signature jersey and it had a wonderful drape and movement to it. The fabric has been hand screened and painted with colorful dashes done in two tones of blue plus a white. It has an almost forties feel to it with its top stitching and gathered seaming details. The neckline plunges and buttons with amazing, elongated diamond, or marquis shaped, buttons that run down the front. These unique buttons also sit on each cuff. It also has its original slip buckle belt that cinches in the waist. An interesting fact about her pieces - each of her dresses were made one at a time and by one single person start to finish. This singular attention shows in the quality of her garments. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with buttons down the front. Each sleeve buttons to close at the cuff. Tagged a size UK10. The fabric does have some stretch so will fit a variety of sizes

Sleeves: 23" approx.
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 16-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5-16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 41" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD3082

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 dress from this same 1976 collection was photoed on Tina Chow by David Bailey for Vogue. I have included those reference photos here and you can clearly see the same ribbon detailing and pleating technique used. Pieces at this level and beauty by Bill Gibb are extremely rare and it is a privilege to have such a gorgeous example of his work in the shop.

Bill Gibb was one of the most influential designers in 1970s Britain and his clothes were sought out and worn by the rich and famous. His work has a high fantasy element and he was crowned Designer of the Year in 1970. Much of his work verged on couture and he was unrelenting in striving for perfection. This dress set is amazing and I feel that it is a high couture, fantasy version, of the one worn by Ms. Chow. It is made up of two pieces  - a long maxi skirt and a top that has an attached, full length net jacket. The inner skirt is gorgeous in its own right. It is made out of a fine silk chiffon with a soft pink silk interior. The exterior silk chiffon is knife pleated so that it has a lot of movement. The outside layer is finished with that pretty ribbon finish made up of three stripes of silk satin ribbon in a pale blue, a pink and a mint green. This same striping edges the inner portion of the top. The inner top is made from the same silk and chiffon combination as the skirt and treated with that same knife pleating technique. Sitting over, and attached to this, is a long jacket and it is here that the high couture fantasy aspect of the piece goes into full play. The neckline is cut wide across so it almost sits off the shoulder. The fabric that sits over the inner silk top is a fine ivory netting that has a stunning design of flowers and vines that trail up from the hem to the top. They are denser around the hem. Each bit of that design is hand embroidered with a multi-colored pastel thread that has a metallic silver running through it so that it has a subtle glint. It is like wearing a literal work of art. The combination of the fine embroidery work and the metallic of the silver is incredibly beautiful and delicate in feel. All of the edges are all finished with silver cording and there is a ling tie of it at the neck. The sleeves are even more incredible. They are cut extra long and each has an inner pleated base made out of a pale pink silk chiffon that is knife pleated like the skirt and inner top are. Over this is a slightly more ivory toned silk netting that poufs out from the shoulder and is caught up just below the elbow. It then flares back out, widening as it reached the end of the sleeve. Each sleeve is densely hand embroidered with that same metallic thread as the body of the jacket. Long silver cords hang down from the seam at the elbow. This is a rare and absolutely amazing piece that is even better in person. It would even make a beautiful choice for a bride who is looking for an alternative to the traditional wedding gown. Excellent condition

Both piece are fully lined in a pale pink silk. The skirt closes with a metal and nylon zipper. The top slips on to wear with snaps and hook and eye at the very top of the inner most silk part. Museum quality and appears to have never been worn, or worn very little. The colors in person are softer and bit more pink feeling in person. So much better in real life.

Skirt
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips at inner lining: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 44" from waist seam to hem

Top/Overlay
Sleeves: approx 31"
Shoulder opening: approx 17"
Bust: to 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist- hips: open
Length: 25" from top of shoulder to hem of inner top, 58" from shoulder to the full length hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3081

Reference Photos: Tina Chow in an ensemble by Bill Gibb. Photographed by David Bailey for British Vogue, April 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.

This set is wonderful and even better on a real body. It is made of a fluid crepe chiffon fabric in a deep blue that has a gorgeous, Italian inspired tomato print covering all the pieces. It has all four original pieces to it - a slightly cropped halter top, a long full maxi skirt, a sash and a huge shawl.  The top is gorgeous with a high neckline and a ruffled collar. It is cut to angle up towards the neck leaving a hint of collar bone showing. it sits just at the waist and a ruffle details the bottom hem. The entire top portion of the back is left bare. This tops a long skirt that is incredibly full. It widens out to almost a full circle skirt and there are literally yards and yards of fabric in that skirt. I love the double ruffle finish to the hem. When the top and skirt are worn together it gives the effect of a dress except for that small bit of skin that peeks out at the waist depending on how long you are through the torso. There is a long sash that you can wrap around the waist or use as a head scarf and also a huge shawl. The shawl can be wrapped and styled around you any way you wish. It too is finished with a ruffle around all its edges. The set is gorgeous and this is Valentino at his best during this time period. It has a very chic but sexy feel in that perfect Valentino way. Excellent condition

The skirt and halter top are fully lined in a black silk chiffon and the sash and shawl are unlined. The halter closes with a painted metal at the back and the skirt also zips to close at the waist. Hand finished throughout. Tagged a vintage Valentino 6

Neck:13.5" from end to end
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: approx 17"

Skirt
Waist: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 45" from waist to hem

Sash: 16" x 72"
Shawl: 39" x 116"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3078

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

For the Vogue review of the Spring 2016 Vetements show, Sarah Mower stated: "No doubt about it: The flagging spirits of Paris fashion have had a shot in the arm since the Vetements collective, led by Demna Gvasalia, came on the scene. Their channeling and upgrading of everyday street style into high style has exerted a massive influence as designers and brands both established and even younger have found it impossible to resist the gravitational pull of Vetements’s outsize tailoring, printed dresses, and thigh-high boots. The feeling that a young, outsider energy is rushing into the spiritual vacuum which currently exists at the center of the establishment is healthy, exciting, and perfectly timed...what was noticeable in this mix was that, rather than just being subversive for the sake of the gestural politics, Vetements means business. Its hoodies have a cult appeal in one direction, but for the fashion congregation there is also so much to believe in here: not just the wearable, desirable printed blouses and dresses, but also the hope that this is the beginning of a new chapter in the life of Paris fashion."

This dress was one of the favored among the street style set and was photoed endlessly it seemed for various editorials. It sold out world wide and was wait listed. I am very pleased to have sourced one that has never been worn at all, still has all its original tags attached and is absolutely perfect. Girls often cut the longer hanging bits that trailed behind the dress but this one is still entirely original. It feels as fresh and avant garde as it did then and will absolutely be a future collectible. The color is a deep blue base with a floral print over that and the cut is oversized. The shoulders are cut a bit more fitted and have a ruffled cap that extends their shape. The sleeves are ling and detailed int trailing, deconstructed, twisted ruffles. More of that  ruffles highlights the collar, the waist and the hem. It is remarkable and a true piece of fashion history. Original tags attached. Excellent condition.

Unlined in the same chiffon and slips on to wear with buttons at the front. Tagged a MED. The jersey has lots of stretch. It will fit a range of sizes because of this. Has an extra button

Sleeves: 25" to actual end of cuff
Slightly inset shoulders: approx14"
Bust: 18-21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17-19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 29" from waist to shortest point of hem, 42 to longest and then the ruffled detailing hangs approx another 18" past that with strings that are even longer past that

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD3076

Reference Photo: F/W 2016 Vetements, Look 41.

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 Fath showed his first collection of just twenty garments in the spring of 1937. It was received well and he steadily built a strong clientele, eventually expanding into America. The label was shuttered in 1957 after Fath's death three years earlier. In 1992 the label was revived and for the next ten years or so continued to present runway collections. This dress is from that period in the 1990s and is a wonderful piece. It has a definitive nod to Fath's earlier work with its dramatic silhouette and bias cut lines. The dress is made from a silk that has a touch of nylon worked into the fabric so that it hugs your curves but has a slight amount of give for maximum comfort and perfect fit. The dress is fitted through the bust, curves in the accentuate the waist and from there glides over the hips to cascade to the floor. It is cut supermodel long and the hem is cut to sweep out all the way around so that you get a tremendous amount of movement and it adds to the hourglass effect the dress give you when it is on the body. I love the huge silk bow that the bust is detailed with. It feels like it is wrapped around the bust and then tied into the large bow. The end of the bow extends and curves over the shoulder. At the back, the tiniest, most delicate strap suspends the dress from that bow. It is gorgeous on the body. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a black silk and closes with a hidden set back zipper. The inner bust has a built in, lightly boned corset. The shoulder derailing hook into place inside at the back. Tagged a FR38, US6. Looks to have been never worn or worn very little

Bust: 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19-21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: approx 68" from top of shoulder to hem but will come up

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3069

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 Gibb was one of the most influential designers in 1970s Britain and his clothes were sought out and worn by the rich and famous. His work has a high fantasy element and he was crowned Designer of the Year in 1970. Much of his work verged on couture and he was unrelenting in striving for perfection. This dress is simply amazing and a wonderful example of his work. The dress is made from a silk chiffon that has been dyed to a deep fuchsia that gradually darkens to a deep mauve. I love how the color deeps as it goes down the dress through both the bodice area and the skirt. The bodice is cut with a wide sleeve that comes out from the gathered and corseted waist. The neckline at the front and back dip in a deep V to meet the high set waist and this creates a beautiful shape that is far better on a real body then how it looks on my dress form. The front neckline is detailed with a little fabric flower that is finished with sequins to pick up on the detailing on the skirt and tie the top and skirt together. The skirt cascades to the floor in a sweep of silk chiffon. Onto it is a design that is made up of fused glitter so that every time you move it sparkles as it moves. The outer silk is backed with an inner lining if a silver silk and this gives the fabric added dimension. It is far better in person and really a wonderful dress that is meant for a real body to make it truly shine. Excellent condition.

The dress is fully lined in a silver silk and closes with a side metal and nylon zipper and hook and eye along part of the bottom seaming of the arm on that side. The waist area appears to be boned but it is not - that is all seaming. Big glass buttons on each cuff. Some of the pattern in the skirt looks like a shadow on the silk and I suspect that it is where glitter was once applied and has fallen off. That said it is regular so it could have been done like that purposely. It certainly doesn't appear or feel like a flaw and is mentioned for accuracy only. It appears to have never been worn, or worn very little

Sleeves: approx 23"
Shoulders: no defines seam
Bust: no true side seams so open and variable
Natural waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Seam at bottom of gatherings 24" down from the shoulder: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam, skirt is open under that
Length: 57" from top of shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3068

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 twin of this dress was photoed for Vogue Italia in 1975 which giving us the exact date on it. Having that as a reference photo has the added bonus of giving you an idea of how great it is on a real body. It is made out of a light and airy silk cotton voile and this choice of fabric gives the print a pretty washed feel and slight transparency. The dress is cut to flow over the body in a loose and easy fashion. It sits, suspended from the shoulder, with elastic running all through the neckline. This allows you to wear it on or off the shoulder. The sleeves are long and full and each has an elastic gathering so they balloon up over the cuff. The body is very full with the hem is finished with a wide ruffle that has that same beautiful floral print as the rest of the dress. It is so pretty and volume seems to be once again in fashion so it feels very relevant yet again. You can easily add a belt to give it more shape and a totally different feel. Excellent condition.

The body of the dress is lined in a nude silk chiffon and the sleeves are unlined. It slips over the head to wear with elastic through the neckline. Tagged a 38 but will fit virtually any size

Sleeves: approx 22"
Shoulders: variable
Bust: 17-22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist-hips: open
Length: 54" from top of shoulder to hem and once on it will fall to full lengthas its worn off shoulder

Modern Sizing Equivalent: OSFA

Item# DD3060

Reference Photo: Marie Helvin and Susan Moncur in YSL. Photo by David Bailey, Vogue Italia, January 1975.

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 Sorelle Fontana label was started by three sisters in 1943. They prodiuced high end Alta Moda Couture and quickly beacame a favorite of the jet set with stars like Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey hepburn, Ava Gardner, Grace Kelly and Jacqueline Kennedt Onanssis among their clientelle. They were an integral part of establishing the high end "Made in Italy" tradition still known to this day and were one of the forefronts of the tradition of the independent Italian couturier.

This dress is is a spectacular example of the couture work being produced by the Sorelle Fontana atelier during this time period. Rarely do such fine examples of their work from this time period, with this level of glamour, come to market anymore. The cut is simple but dramatic. It is cut in a supermodel long sheath that was made to hug every curve but without clinging. Rather it creates a long lean silhouette that suggests the body underneath and gives the illusion of height. The neckline is cut simply at the front and the back with just the a shallow scoop. The base fabric is a stretch knit  and this glides over the bust and waist. The hips are cut with a slight curve to follow the curve of the body and the skirt falls to the floor from there. The entire dress is densely covered with hand placed iridescent blue sequins. These are so heavily applied that they overlap each other and cover the entire surface. Worked in among the sequins are a looped design that gives the dress a secondary pattern. Over this are hundreds of hand done beaded tassels that follow those curving bead detailing. Each of these dangle a full four inches off the dress and are finished with two faux pearls. The effect that these create whenever you move is jaw dropping. It is amazing. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a blue silk and closes with a back metal zipper. There is another good 5" turned up inside the hem if you need more length. All the sequins, pearls and beads are completely hand sewn into place. It weighs several pounds. There are some minor repairs to the inside lining near the inner hem but of course these are not seen when on. The stretch knit base will allow for a range of sizes. You could probably get a bit more then even the greater range below.

Bust: 17-19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18-21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from top of shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG

Item# DD3060

Reference photo: 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.

At the age of 31, Stephane Rolland took over as Artistic Director for the Jean Louis Scherrer Haute Couture atelier, making him the youngest of the 20 official couturiers at the time. That was in 1997 and he continued as the head of the Couture division until the last showing in 2005 when the house closed is couture atelier. This gown is from the Spring 2000 Haute Couture presentation and is the actual runway defile sample presented and worn on the runway, Look 16. This particular collection is very poorly documented and I have included reference photos of a similar gown using comparable techniques from the Fall collection of the season before so that you can get a sense of how it sits on the body.

I love when I have any Haute Couture piece in the shop and to have the actual runway sample is always wonderful as it truly represents the designer's vision. The dress is even more stunning in person and the photos really can't do the impact that the head to toe silver mesh and sequins justice. In person the entire dress shimmers and seems like some kind of fantastical second skin as it flows over the body. It has the slightest hint of transparency to it which is very sexy and adds to the allure of the gown. The fabric is an actual silver metal mesh with hundreds of thousands of silver sequins hand applied to cover every inch. It is cut with a classic one shoulder silhouette from which the dress flows down and over the body to highlight every curve. It is cut long and with a slight train that add to the illusion of height. The bodice curves up and over one shoulder and then the mesh acts like a bias cut fabric on the body and hugs and moves with you as you move. Onto the dress are hand applied, ivory dyed horsehair detailing that cure around the body and create a Haute Couture fantasy. The dress is a masterpiece  with its beautiful lines and flowing cut. It is an incredible piece of modern Haute Couture. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with hidden set back zipper.  Hand work throughout. Unlabeled. This is the actual runway sample worn on the presentation. The fabric gives it the flexibility of a bias cut so has a bit more range of sizing them a more structured piece would have. It weighs several pounds because of the metal mesh used.

Bust: 16-17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 16-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: approx 63" from top of shoulder to the front hem, approx 69 to the back hem including the train to the very longest point

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED

Item# DD3058

Reference Photos: F/W 1999 Haute Couture Jean Louis Scherrer Runway 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 a beautiful example of Pauline Trigere's work during this time period. The dress comes from its original owner who provided the approximate date that she purchased it.

Trigere was a master at cut and often fitted garments directly on a model. She was also very hands on and the construction of the dress shows this as it is immaculately finished with many hand details. Both the dress and its matching cape are made from a fine silk crepe chiffon.  in a deep blue. Onto that base is a 'fireworks' design in soft pastel colors that graduate from one color to the next as they travel through the swirls and curves of each design. Behind each is a softened, diffused ivory - perhaps to hint at smoke? The pattern covers both pieces and is quite stunning. The body of the dress is cut wide and full with an almost caftan feel to it as it swing out from under the top portion of the dress. The neckline is dipped into a low V at the front and back is cut even lower to leave the back almost completely exposed. Over this lies a gorgeous little capelet that dips down into points at the front and back. It is far, far better in person then how it photoed on a dress form. It is bias cut and really need s a real body in it to show it off best. Excellent condition.

The dress is fully lined in the same silk through the halter top and a blue silk through the skirt. All hand finishes. The dress closes with a low back zipper and the cape slips over the head and buttons at the neck. Bias cut so does have some play

Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 12-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 48" from shoulder to hem
Capelet: 39" from neck to longest point in length

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3051

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 1940s feel to this dress is distinctive and it was this feature that allowed me to find the date of the collection. We tracked down a photo of Karl with a model in 1974 wearing a dress from that years collection that has that same 1940s feel to it that as we see on this example. The date also matches what I was told about the purchase date by the original owner. It is these collections during the years between 1969 and 1975 that we still see heavily influence the modern bohemian feel of Chloe today. Examples of his work during this time period are held in museums around the world and are rare finds.

At first glance you would think this is a dress straight off the 1940s runway. It has that same cut and feel and even the silk used has that feel of the early crepe silks. You can see the more modern touches (for 1974 that is) with the black lace that edges the sleeves and finishes the hemline. In person it is even better then how it photoed as you can really get lost in that gorgeous print of dragonflies, flowers and butterflies that cover the entire surface. The cut is classic forties in feel with a loose and easy fitting bodice whose cap sleeves are en extension of the fabric used for the bodice itself. So there are no seams there to break the line or disrupt the pattern. The skirt under that falls just past the knee and is also cut to be loose and easy. At the hips on either side sit bows that combine a matching printed fabric with a coral silk that add detail and a touch of volume there. The dress is made from a  fine black silk that has  that wonderful design screened over it surface in a way that give it the appearance that it was hand painted. It came with its matching fabric tie that you can use to cinch in the waist or tie around the neck. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with a back, hidden set  painted metal& nylon zipper. Has its matching tie belt. Hand finishes throughout

Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 30.5" from waist to hem
Tie: 45" x 2.5"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3050

Reference Photo: Karl Lagerfeld and a model for Chloé Spring/Summer 1974 Fashion Show.

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 painted floral design used on this dress is distinctive and it was this feature that allowed me to find the date of the collection. We tracked down these photos of Karl in the studio with models wearing pieces from the 1972 collection and you can see that there are similar design elements used on the various floral pieces in those photos as we see on this example. This information also matches what I was told about the purchase date form its original owner. It is these collections during the years between 1969 and 1975 that we still see heavily influence the modern bohemian feel of Chloe today. Examples of his work during this time period are held in museums around the world and are rare finds.

This dress is wonderful. In person it is even better then how it photoed as the painted floral print really explodes off of the blue silk backdrop. The cut is kept fairly simple but is still sexy with a halter bodice and a long skirt that falls to the floor. The dress is made from a light, bias cut silk chiffon. Onto the silk is a vivid floral design that appears to be hand painted. Beautiful bright blossoms circle around the base of the skirt and travel almost up to the hips at the highest points of the design. The bodice is left the solid blue so that the eye is drawn instantly to the print on the skirt. The top is cut into a halter style with straps that curve up and behind the beck to leave the shoulders bare. The front neckline dips into a V at the front and the  back is left completely bare. The waist narrows in and then the skirt flows to the floor from there, gradually widening out as it nears the hem. This allows the design to be shows off to its full advantage. It came with its matching, extra long, scarf that has the same print on both ends in a matching silk chiffon. I have shown both ends on the two photos that it is included in. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a blue silk and closes with a side painted metal and nylon zipper. I see one small repair near the edge of the hem that is not seen when on because of the excess of fabric. Hand finishes throughout. The long edges of the scarf are hand rolled and the shorter edges finished with a fringed edging.

Bust: variable as there are no true side seams
Under bust/high waist: 13-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 60" from top of neck to hem
Scarf: 78" x 33"

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3049

Reference Photos: Karl Lagerfeld with Models at Maison Chloe, 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.