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Alber joined Lanvin in 2001 and served as the labels Creative Director until 2015. His first break as a designer came when he landed the senior assistant role at Geoffrey Beene. He stayed there for seven years until he was recruited to design for the Guy Laroche label in 1996. in 1998 he took over the Rive Gauche ready-to-wear for Yves Saint Laurent for three short seasons. A stint at Krizia and then a break happened before his time with Lanvin. The Alber years for Lanvin are ones that are much loved by all and with his passing owning these pieces seems even more poignant. The twin of this dress was Look 23 on the Spring Runway and one was worn by Amanda Seyfield to her premiere that year.
This is one of those dresses that you just slip on and walk out the door feeling great in. The pleat detailing and loose and easy shape is obviously inspired by Issey Miyake and then Alber has put his own spin on it with the raw deconstructed edges the dress has and the zipper at the back. The sleeves extend out from the body of the dress and the bodice is meant to feel slightly oversized over you. He has shaped the dress into an hourglass so once it is on, you can wear it up on the waist more to create a bit of a blousing feel over top of the waist. If you are very tiny through the upper hip it would fall more like how it does on the runway and skim over your body. It curves out over the hips and then narrows down in at the hem. The edges all have raw fringed feel and at the back a chunky zipper sits under another raw finished edging. It is a super pretty and very light in weight dress that is easy to wear. Excellent condition.
Unlined and closes at the back with a zipper. Tagged a Lanvin 36
Sleeves: the arm opening are 12" around
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Total length: 36" from neck to hem and will come up when on if bloused over at the waist
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD4820
Reference Photos/Video: (1-2) Spring 2011 Lanvin, Look 23. Model Sofie Roelens. / (3) Amanda Seyfried in Lanvin at the Premiere of Little Red Riding Hood, March 2011.
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yves saint laurent
Spectacular Spring 1990 Yves Saint Laurent Runway Adjustable Length Metallic Silk Chiffon Dress
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This is just a spectacular dress. Its twin walked the runway for the Spring 1990 season and I love having the runway photos so that you can see how phenomenal the dress is. The Spring 1990 collection was fully of whimsy and ruffles and it highlighted just how well Yves could do a feminine piece with a bit of wit and romance. I absolutely love this dress and I think it is fantastically beautiful.
One of the things that I love most about this dress is how much the feel of it changes depending on what length you choose to wear it at. Without the belt it is this full and easy piece that has no defined waist and a low dropped skirt. You can then add the belt to give it a bit of shape around the hip or wear the belt higher up to define the waist more. From there you can start to adjust how long it sits on you. The back is cut a bit longer than the front and this lets you really hike the front up and into a micro mini if you wanted to. I took a few photos of it at the various lengths on the dress form and you could probably go even shorter if you wanted. You could even wear this as a tunic and layer it over something. The dress is made from a light weight silk chiffon that feels like it weighs virtually nothing once on the body. It has a brilliant and beautiful floral pattern that covers its entire surface and mixes that bright green with blue and pinks. Shots of gold thread add a fabulous little glimmer. The photos do not convey how gorgeous the fabric is in real life. Elastic sits around the top of the shoulders so you can wear it fully off the shoulder or you can wear it up and on the shoulders if you wish. Each sleeve is incredibly full and open and goes to about the elbow with elastic at their ends. The bodice is cut to skim over you and continues on to be loose and easy to past the waist and hips. It comes with its matching fabric belt that is what lets you play with the length and shape. A little tie of fabric sets to one side of the skirt ties into a soft bow for added detail there. The bottom edge of the skirt is finished with a wide ruffle and this adds to the volume and movement that the skirt already has. The fabric is light enough that the skirt will move with the slightest bit of air. When you move it moves. I love it. Excellent condition
Fully lined through the body of the dress in a slightly textured nude silk chiffon. The sleeves are unlined. It slips on to wear with elastic at the shoulder and sleeves. The belt hooks so close. Tagged a vintage YSL 36 and the loose and easy cut should allow it to fit a variety of sizes.
Sleeves: approx 17" and are open and full through the upper arm
Shoulders: adjustable
Bust: 17-22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 24" flat across from side seam to side seam
Total length: approx 36" from top of natural shoulder to front hem, 43" to the back and then you can adjust with the belt to be micro mini
Belt: 36" from end to end and you could adjust where the hooks sit upwards another inch and down to where you needed.
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED
Item# DD4807
Reference Photos: Spring 1990 Yves Saint Laurent.
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I just put a little gold camisole from the same collection into the shop last week and now I also have the dress for you. Both of these pieces are absolutely exquisite and really show the charm that early product collections had and why people love collecting them. This one is a little extra special because it's twin in a print was shown on the runway and was used for the ad campaign that season. I love having these shots because it shows you just how gorgeous it is on the body. With its pretty ivory colour this might also make a fantastic dress for a bride for one of her events around her ceremony or even for the dress itself if she wants to go a non-traditional route.
The top made out of the perfect ivory coloured silk that is a beautifully light in weight. It is very soft and supple and the bias cut lets it glide over you once it is on. I love that it is lined in a matching coloured silk organza. The organza lets it stay very light in weight but it also feels beautiful once on the body. That extra layer of lining underneath also lets the dress fall over the body in the most flattering way. The straps twist and curve up and over the shoulders. They are caught up with a little band of silk at the front and then the front plunges into a V. Little pleats are gathered into two sewn rows just above a muted ivory grosgrain ribbon that is attached all the way around the waist. Under the ribbon it's skims past your waist over the hips, and then flares out prettily at the hem. The back is phenomenal. The straps twist until they meet the back and then they extend down in that same twisting way to edge the low scoop of the back. This leaves your entire back there and open. It is gorgeous. Excellent condition
Fully lined in a matching silk organza and closes at the side with a hidden set zipper. Perhaps tyhe tiniest of light snags in the silk here and there. Tagged a vintage Prada 44.
Bust: 16-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.25"flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 16" from the top of the shoulder to the top of the band at the waist
Total length: 49" from the top of the shoulder to the hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4802
Reference Photos: (1) Fall 2000 Prada Ad Campaign. / (2) Fall 2000 Prada, Look 59. Model Colette Pechekhonova.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
versace
Important Fall 1997 Gianni Versace Black Strapless Dress from his Final Womans RTW Collection
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The Fall 1997 collection was his final women's ready-to-wear runway before his untimely passing. At the time Versace told reporters that the collection was based on minimalism "this season I felt the need for silence, solidarity, and strength. I think our role as designers has changed. In an in 1980s I showed myself now I want to show clothing." The 20th anniversary of the label was also quickly approaching and for this collection he paired everything back to the basics as a reset. The strapless jersey dress was integral to the show. In the book on his work "Gianni Versace" they noted that these dresses were "as simple as a towel wrapped around his torso". On the runway the black was shown with boots and an oversized jacket and then he paraded more of the same dress in a myriad of colours. We have included several runway shots and video of the the various versions of this dress so that you can see just how fantastic it is on the body. This dress came from the original client and she remembers having to fight to get one because they sold out everywhere instantly as soon as they were released.
The dress is made out of a synthetic jersey that gives it lots of movement and some stretch through the body of the dress. The bodice of the dress has a built-in boned inner corset and a seam that sits right under the bust, This holds it in place on the body and hugs you around the breasts. From there it falls with a slight curve outwards around the hip and then it comes back in slightly for the bottom hem. As noted above there is a panel that wraps around the front to give the impression of a wrap dress but it is all attached. The panel that wraps around you moves as you move and you can see this in the video. It also adds a slight bit of detail to the otherwise perfectly simple dress. It is very chic and minimalist and a dress that is an important part of Versace's history with the added provenance of being from one of his final collections ever are. Excellent condition with a small note below
There is a boned built in corset that closes with its own inner side zipper and then the dress closes with a hidden set side zipper over that. Perhaps a tiny bit of evidence of press marks near the seams and the slightest tiniest bit of fading here and there. I have never seen this particular type of fabric not do that as it ages so it is inherent to the fabric. Tagged a vintage Versace 42
Bust: to 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner seam under the bust: to 15"flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17-20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 5.25" from the top of the neckline to the seam under the bust
Total length: 29" from neck to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD4801
Reference Photos/Video: Fall 1997 Versace. (1) Look 21. Model Tanga Moreau. / (2) Look 25. Model Naomi Campbell. / (3) Look 26. Model Shirley Mallmann. / (5) Fall 1997 Versace Catalogue.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
john galliano
Iconic Fall 1997 John Galliano "Suzy Sphinx" Runway Looks 7 & 8 Grey Schoolgirl Jacket
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This is one of those instantly recognizable jackets by Galliano. On the runway he showed this jacket twice. Once with a very short, very tight, pencil skirt and then with a more pleated flared schoolgirl skirt. The two models he chose for these two looks are equally as iconic. The great Michelle Hicks was one and Kate Moss the other. The show was eclectic and mixed numerous references. Galliano told WWD that "Suzy, the naughty schoolgirl, dreams of becoming an actress and goes for an audition for a part, she gets the role and begins preparing for one of the greatest parts and actors could ever have – Cleopatra". This was one of the key looks of the show and I love that whoever ends up being the lucky person that nabs it can now have the future quest of finding either, or both, of the matching skirts.
The jacket is a definite play on a school uniform and yet it still has enough detail that it has a special feel. The sleeves are long and simple with a series of three gold metal toned buttons at each cuff. The shoulders are shaped with soft internal padding. The collar is notched and neat. The jacket closes with a series of three more of those same etched gold metal buttons that are larger versions of the ones on the cuffs. I love how all of the seaming, starting at the collar and running down the front, are edged with a yellow grosgrain ribbon and then a second slightly thinner deep burgundy grosgrain ribbon sits just inside of that. That same yellow edging also tops each of the three pockets that sit on the front of the jacket. Each pocket is stitched onto the jacket to become a design detail in itself and each is functional. This is what helps to gives the jacket its incredible detail and school uniform feel. And that unexpected pop of colour against the grey wool is fantastic. The waist is brought in a touch to add shape and then the hips flare out from under there. The jacket is in beautiful condition and is a highly collectible piece of early Galliano. Excellent condition.
Lined in a black silk and it buttons to close at the front. The front pockets are functional. The buttons on each sleeve are decorative. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Tagged a F36, GB8, US4
Sleeves: 23" and are 12" around the upper arm
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.25" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bottom hem: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Total length: 22" from top of the shoulder to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD4797
Reference Photos/Video: Fall 1997 John Galliano. Models Michele Hicks & Kate Moss.
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The twin of this dress in pink was shown as Look 4 for the 2009 Resort collection. In their review Vogue said that "For his joyful Resort collection for Lanvin, Alber Elbaz was thinking not only of the "idea of vacation" but also of the "perfect American look of the fifties—but made in the wrong way." I love that and that expresses to me so much how his mind worked. It is just one of those dresses that is completely easy to wear and still feels glamorous.
It isn't until you put this dress on that you realize just how masterful the draping is. It is the easiest dress to wear. There is wide ribbon of elastic running around the inner top edge of the dress. You just slip the dress on and it falls to the floor in one perfectly draped column of black silk. The silk is gathered along the top of the edge and then stitched into place along it. It skims over the bust and falls loose and easy over the waist and hips so that it is incredibly comfortable and accommodating once on the body. At the centre of the neckline silk has been gathered up into a deconstructed knot of fabric for added detail. This knot and the gathering detail at the front gives it visual interest and keeps the dress feeling soft and romantic while still being on the more minimalist side. The silk is gathered in softly under that and then falls to the floor in a swoop of fabric all the way to the hem. The dress falls easy and free over the body so it is easy to wear. The front hem curves up a bit so you get a tiny flash of leg near the hem and it allows you to be able to walk. This was his way of adding a little bit of sexiness to the dress but in a very Alber kind of way. It is so fabulous. Excellent condition
Unlined and slips on with an elastic running through the upper edge of the bodice. The measurement range below is the comfortable range of the fabric lying flat.
Elastic at the top of the bust: 14-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 52" from top of bodice to the longest point of the hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED
Item# DD4788
Reference Photo: Resort 2009 Lanvin, Look 4. Model: Holland Stevens.
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The twin of this set walked the runway for the 2008 Resort collection for Look 12. Vogue said that the collection was done "in an electric-bright palette.. and channelled Barbara Hutton's sixties—a glittery, lame, paisley, and leopard-print world of muumuus, bikinis, capri pants, trapeze dresses, cat-eye sunglasses, and scarf-wrapped hats. It bordered on camp... and Kitschy or not, there was no denying the workmanship that went into crafting the large collection." I love having the photos that show you how fantastic this is on the body and if its runway provenance was not enough, Lady Gaga also wore the twin of the top as part of an outfit in 2007.
The print that covers the entire surface of both pieces is fabulous. It is a leopard print but done in green, taupe and ivory instead of browns. I love the boldness that this creates. The pants have a flat banded waist that is meant to sit slightly low on the hips and then the legs are cropped. Two little decorative flap pockets sit on the front just below the waistband and there are slip pockets at the back that are mainly decorative as they are very shallow in depth. The back ones have their original tacking in place. I love the nod to the sixties that this gives the pants. The top is also a nod to the sixties with its little baby doll cut. It is sleeveless and then it wraps and snaps in place at the front. This creates a low plunge at the front. It is defined under its empire waist with a wide grosgrain ribbon that is stiffened and done in a bright green. A peplum falls under that and it expands out and over the hips to add volume and shape. It has the perfect kitschy, camp, sixties baby doll feel and I love it. You can wear the pieces together for a strong statement or break up the set and wear them as separates with other pieces in your closet for lots of styling options. It looks to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition
Both pieces are unlined. The pants have a flat waist and close with a hook and a zipper. Decorative flap pockets at the front under the waist and slit pockets at the back of the pants. The top snaps and hooks to close at the front. Both pieces appear to have been worn very little if at all. The top is tagged a FR40, GB12, IT44, US8 and the pants are tagged a FR38, GB10, IT42, US6
Top
Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Empire waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 11.75" from neck to the top of the green ribbon
Total length: 25" from neck to hem
Pants
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam with no give
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 30" from waist to hem
Inseam: 21.5"
Rise: 14" from the top of the back waist to the inner seam
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4782
Reference Photos/Video: (1-3) Resort 2008 Dior, Look 12. Model Tanya Chubko. / (4) Lady Gaga by Katherine Wolkoff, 2007.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
lanvin
Dreamy Spring 1984 Lanvin by Jules-Francois Crahay Runway Red Linen & Black Dress w Open Bow Back
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I just had the near twin of the dress in the shop a couple of months ago and I am very pleased to find this version so quickly. It is a stunning dress and shows the softer, more romantic side of Lanvin from this time period. This was designed by Jules-Francois Crahay, who headed the Lanvin ateliers from 1964-1984. In the book Lanvin by Rizzoli, there is a lovely forward from Alber Elbaz, that noted that the Spring 1984 was Crahay's last RTW collection for the label before his retirement which makes a piece from that collection that much more special. Crahay's time at the Lanvin label is one of my personal favourite periods for the house and I think it is so special to have a documented piece from his last RTW collection. The runway photos also show you just how great this one is on the body. I love it.
This one is different from the first version I had in that the back skirt is purposefully split so you get a pop of black from the underskirt. It was common for designers to showcase two or three versions of the same dress for their clients during this time period. We often see that with Marc Bohan's work for Dior as well. This version feels a little bit more avante garde than the other and I love how the black of the underskirt picks up the black backing of the bows above. The dress is made from a beautiful hand loomed red linen. The linen gives it a stunning texture and the depth of colour that is achieved by using linen is fantastic. It has been lined in a black silk that peaks out from the back opening. From the front the dress is this beautifully simple and romantic feeling dress. The sleeve are softly gathered into the shoulders and they are cut wide and straight to just above the elbow. The bodice skims over you to the waist. The cut through the waist area is slightly more on the loose and easy side and depending on how tight you tie the back it can sit more loose and easy or with a bit more shape. The skirt is set into the waist in a series of tiny soft gathers. This picks up beautifully on the shoulders and adds a little volume around the hips and through the skirt. I love the pockets hidden along each hip. They really add to the easy feeling that the dress has. The skirt has tons of fabric in it. When you stand straight you don't really realize how much fabric has been used but when you move or sit it really flows around you beautifully. The upper back is almost shocking with the surprise of it when you turn around. It is completely open to the waist and then the opening is held in place by three wide ties. The linen extends out on each side of the back and then each tie combines the red linen for the top of the tie and black silk for the other side. When you ties these into bows you get this fantastic combination of red, black and your bare skin peeking out between it all. It is a fantastic dress that is sexy and sweet at the same time. I love it. Excellent condition
Fully lined in a black silk satin through the top and black silk through the skirt. It close with a hidden zipper on the inner black skirt and then has three ties down the open back. It appears to have been worn very little, if at all. Tagged a vintage Lanvin 38
Sleeves: 13" and 14" around at the widest point
Shoulders: adjustable with tie
Bust: to 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam and can be adjusted in and can be adjusted in words with the ties
Waist: to 11.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 14.5" fromtop of shoulder to waist
Total length: 56.5" from top of shoulder to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XXS-XS
Item# DD4766
Reference Photos/Video: (1) Spring 1984 Lanvin Runway.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
balmain
Fall 1996 Pierre Balmain by Oscar de la Renta Haute Couture Layered Silk Chiffon Dress w Embroidered Bodice
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In 1993 Oscar de la Renta took over as Creative Director at Balmain where he designed the Haute Couture collections until 2002. The house had been floundering at that point and he had a huge impact on the reviving the sales of the couture pieces, mainly by catering to private clients, much like Balmain had originally. It is extraordinary to think that Oscar never produced a Haute Couture line under his own label and these few short years at Balmain gives us a chance to see just how talented he really was at all levels. I was very pleased to be able to fully document this dress with its photos from it on the runway. It is just beautiful.
I love that that photos let you can see just how beautifully the silk chiffon on the skirt moves once this is on the body. It is a gorgeous dress and his time there was one of the best. The dress is interesting because when you stand still you get a beautiful long, lean silhouette but the second you move the chiffon in the skirt is picked up by the air and the dress becomes even more extraordinary. His use of fabric and the contrast he created by putting that pastel moss green with that soft dusty pink-purple is fascinating. The skirt of the dress is made from yards and yards of bias cut silk chiffon. The fabric is feather light. Two top layers of chiffon are split up the centre and these float over an inner silk skirt that has another layer of chiffon over it. The two top layers are heavily gathered in at the front waist so that they drape and curve around the hips. This is what creates that hourglass shape that you see. When you move these open and float away from the body and you fully see the contrasting colours underneath. It is amazing. The back of the skirt is cut slightly longer and this helps the silk layers to catch the air and move around you with your slightest movement. I love how it is gathered in up and around the waist. The bodice sits over that with an empire cut to it. The neckline is cut into a low dipping, curving V at the front and the neckline is set wide across so the collarbones can be seen. Little cap sleeves curve over the tops of your shoulders and the shoulders are soft with no padding. The entire bodice is an extraordinary feat of embroidery work and piece work. It would have all been done completely by hand. It combines a soft cross hatching of a pastel taupe thread for the backdrop and then onto that is a beautiful design of leaves and flowers in pink gold and greens. These curve over the bodice and it is a stunning thing to see in real life. The upper bodice is backed with a pale pinky nude silk organza which gives it a touch of transparency through the upper bodice and arms. The bust area has a built in boned and cupped corset that extends down to the waist inside. It closes down the front and the zipper is hidden away from view by those draped and gathered panels of silk chiffon on the skirt. Once on the body, it appears to have no closures at all. It's as if it was just magically made over you. Its magical. Everything is done by hand right down to the hand rolled edges of all of those layers of chiffon on the skirt. Between the heavily detailed embroidery and the contrasting colours of the silk chiffon, the final effect is fantastically romantic in feel. It is amazing. Excellent condition with a small note below
Fully lined in a silk organza through the bodice as described above and a light purple silk for the inner corset and lining of the inner skirt. It closes with a front zipper. Boning and light padded cups on the inner corset. There are some repairs to the organza lining of the inner bodice. I see a couple very tiny catches in the fabric here and there near the hem, on the back and there is a tiny flaw near the inner edge of the purple lining near the zipper. Please see the photos after the label shot. Minor. Hand finishes throughout and made by hand to Haute Couture standards
Sleeves: are 13.25" around the upper arm
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Seam under the bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner waist: to 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner hips: to 21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 13" from top of shoulder to bottom of the bodice
Total length: 62" from top of shoulder to the longest point of the hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4763
Reference Photos: Fall 1996 Pierre Balmain Haute Couture.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
christian dior
Pre-Fall 2011 Christian Dior by John Galliano Black Silk Suit w Back Flared Skirt & Gathered Detailed Jacket
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The twin of this Dior suit was shown for the Christian Dior Pre-Fall 2011 collection. This collection was shot as a look book that year. At the time Dior said this of John's collection: ”Dior’s Fall ready-to-wear collection takes its inspiration from the legendary love affair between Mrs. Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII. English romanticism is channeled into Balmoral fringed tweeds and candy-coloured tartans with Prince of Wales checks.” Vogue commented that: "John Galliano galloped the Duchess of Windsor through This Is Your Life, with richly hued musings on what Wallis Simpson in her prime might've worn at specific times of day and across the decades." The Dior team styled the pieces in lavish settings to play on this theme and this would have been a part of the day looks of the collection. This was John's second last collection for the house.
This is a great little silk suit that is easy to wear. I love that with it being two pieces you can mix and match it with other pieces from your wardrobe. The jacket is classic but with enough details that it has a special feel. The sleeves are long and simple and the shoulders are soft and sloped. The colour is neat and rounded and the jacket closes with a series of three buttons at the waist. I love how the front of the jacket is gathered in on a curve into the collar. This is what gives the jacket a little extra detail. A band of fabric goes around the waist to add shape and then the hips flare out from under that. Two button flap pockets sit on each hip and both have their original tacking in place. All of the buttons are engraved Dior Paris. The skirt is a simple pencil that flares out just slightly as it reaches the hem. It skims over your hips and falls straight at the front. At the back there is an extra panel of fabric worked into the bottom hem. This adds a little flirty flare and softness at the back. You could also belt the jacket if you really wanted to cinch in the waist and change up the look of the suit. Excellent condition.
Both pieces are lined in a black silk. The jacket buttons to close and the skirt zips to close at the back. The front pockets are functional and have their original tacking in place. Tagged a F42, GB14, I46, US10
Jacket
Sleeves: 24.5"
Sleeves: approx 23" and they are 12.25" around the upper arm
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: 18.5" 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: 23" from neck to hem
Skirt
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 22" from waist to front hem, 24" to the back hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4761
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
chanel
Minimalist Fall 2000 Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Haute Couture Runway Look 11 Black Dress & Jacket Suit
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The twin of this set in a different colourway walked the runway for the Fall 2000 show for Look 11. My client ordered hers in black and that simple colour change makes it incredibly timeless. The suit is beautiful and so chic. I also have Look 17 from the show in the shop that has a longer jacket from the same client. It is a beautiful example of how Karl could do a classic minimalist look that focused purely on tailoring and cut. It is an incredibly beautiful and historically important example of the work that Karl was doing for Chanel during this time period.
I love that this is a suit with a dress and jacket rather than a jacket and skirt. It makes it so versatile. You can wear the dress on its own or with other pieces to extend its life more and of course you can mix the jacket with anything from your wardrobe. Both of the pieces are constructed from a fine black wool that has a touch of texture to its surface. The dress is cut in the sleek and simple shift that skims over the body and flares out slightly as it nears the hem. The hem has a pretty fringe finish for a tiny touch of detailing. Perfectly placed seams shape the dress around you so that it is flattering on the body like the seaming detail at the neck that gives it the feel that the fabric crosses over itself. It is hand lined in a black silk so feels like heaven on. The jacket slips over that and has light shoulder pads for a touch of structure and the sleeves are long. The meticulous seams are set on curving lines to create shape. There is a simple hook and eye closure at the neck and two functional pockets. It is also hand lined in a high end black silk and there is the signature Chanel chain set around the inner hem of the jacket to allow it to fall perfectly. A ruffled detailing goes from the neck to the hem of the jacket. It narrows down as it reaches the bottom hem and this adds a touch of softness to the jacket. This is a stunning and timeless example of Chanel's Haute Couture work. It is meticulously made and it is a beautiful piece showcasing the work that the Chanel ateliers are capable of and of Karl's time there. Excellent condition.
Both the dress and the jacket are hand lined in a fine black silk. The dress closes with a back hidden set zipper that follows along an offset seam so that it looks to have no closure at all. The jacket has a hook and eye at the top of the neck. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Both pieces have an appropriate Haute Couture label and numbered tape present and are completely made by hand to Couture standards.
Jacket
Sleeve: 23.5"
Slightly inset shoulders: 15"
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 24" from neck to hem
Dress
Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 38" from shoulder to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4177
Reference Photos/Video: Fall 2000 Chanel Haute Couture Runway Collection. Look 11
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
hanae mori
Important Fall 1972 Hanae Mori Couture Ad & Book Piece Silk Chiffon Printed & Ruffled One Sleeve Caftan Dress
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Hanae was the first woman of Japanese descent to have presented on the Paris and New York runways and the first Asian woman to be admitted as an official Haute Couture house to La Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. Her work is exceptional. Hanae Mori excelled at these beautiful prints that combined nature had elements of her homeland. Her caftans are the most sought after pieces and so very hard to find. When I find pieces like this one that is such a stunningly beautify example of her caftans I am very happy. I feel that pieces like this are among the very best representations of her work. This one is extra special as its near twin was used in the ad campaign that year and its actual twin is predominantly featured in the book on her work "Hannae Mori 1960-1989". It is not always easy to date her pieces and I love having such wonderful documentation. It also shows you how beautiful this piece is on the body.
This is everything you look for in a piece by Hanae Mori. It is spectacular. Her caftans especially are almost impossible to find anymore and this one has been in my archives forever. It has one of her custom designed prints screened onto masses of feather light silk chiffon that is layered over an inner silk twill sheath dress with the same print. Think the finest silk scarf you could have in terms of weight and feel. The entire dress has been printed with gorgeous tropical trees, mountains and birds that are seen flitting across its surface. The neckline is high and folded over itself and the shoulders are soft. The inner dress is attached around the neckline and top of the shoulders and then falls to the floor, skimming over the body where it widens out a touch as it reaches the hem. The top layer floats spectacularly over that. On one side is an attached sleeve and that sleeve balloons out beautifully over a more structured cuff. On the other side the silk extends out to cape over the arm and there are miles of fabric on that side. This top layer is spectacularly full and falls on a curve down to the hem of the dress. All of the edge on that side, around the hem, and up the side on the other side are finished with a wide ruffled hem. There are three layers of silk that make up that ruffled hem. It is incredible. As with the best of Hanae's dresses the effect of having the same print on the top layer and the inner layer gives the design added dimension and depth as they float over each other. The movement and drama that all this fabric creates is extraordinary. This is a dress that you slip on and feel completely comfortable when wearing it and yet it has as much drama and impact as you could ask for. I love having that spectacular book photo to really show you how wonderful the dress is. It is a stunning and very rare and well documented example of her work and beautifully made. I love it. Excellent condition with some minor notes below.
The inner dress is a silk twill that is lined in a silk and the outer silk chiffon layer floats over that. The inner dress zips to close, and then the outer dress buttons to close over that with hook and eye at the neck. The cuff closes with two silk covered snaps. There are a couple of tiny marks on the outer layer here and there. I also see one tiny pinhole in the silk chiffon on the back of the arm and a small repair at the base of the exterior opening. All are minor. Please see the photos after the label shot. The edges of the ruffles are hand rolled and have wire in them for shape. Extensive hand finishing throughout the entire caftan. The colour is slightly more pastel feeling in person. The inner dress could easily be adjusted up or down so should work on a range of sizes
Sleeve: 26" and it is 13" around the upper arm
Shoulders: approx 15" but no true defined seam
Inner bust: to 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner waist: to 16.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner hips: to 21.5" flat across the inner seam but adjustable with the sash
Total length: 61" from top of the shoulder to the longest point of the hem
Reference Photo: (1) From the book " Hanae Mori 1960-1989". / (2) Hanae Mori ad from Vogue UK, November 1972.
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-LRG
Item# DD4757
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
oscar de la renta
Prettiest Spring 2020 Oscar de la Renta by Laura Kim & Fernando Garcia Silk Print Halter Dress
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This gorgeous dress is from the Spring 2020 Oscar de la Renta collection under the creative direction of Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia. This was a ready-to-wear piece that was produced for the shops and it is stunning and easy to wear. It was Look 36 in their RTW look book presented for clients with an original price tag at the time of $5390USD. It is a definite show stopper and I love it.
This is one of the prettiest modern Oscar dresses I have had in the shop and I love it. The movement it has when it is on and you walk is just incredible. It is made out of the perfect tangerine and white coloured silk that is perfectly light in weight so it has beautiful movement when you move. The halter front extends and curves up and over the shoulders and then drops in the same V at the back. The silk crosses over itself at the front and it is set into a wide band that adds shape around the waist. At the top of each shoulder the fabric has an attached tie that trails down your back. I have tied them into a small bow and if you wanted the trailing ends to be longer you could tie them into a simple knot instead. I love the added drama and prettiness that this adds to the dress. The skirt is set into the waist band in little knife pleats all the way around you. Buttons run all the way down the front with a slit left from the hem up for a flash of leg. I love the little added detail the buttons give the dress. A second horizontal seam sits just below the hip and another series of pleats create the skirt that then falls to the floor. Doing the different sections of the skirt adds visual interest and also allows the lower skirt to open up more. The movement that this gives it shows best when you move and the lightness of the silk causes the skirt to move with the slightest bit of air. When this is on and you are walking the movement in the skirt and those ties that draped down your back all create is absolutely gorgeous. The final perfect detail is that perfect summer feeling floral print that runs over the entire dress. It is beautiful. Excellent condition
Fully lined in the same printed silk as the exterior. The ties on the shoulder are stitched in place and you can put them into a bow or leave them loose. It closes with a back set zipper and the buttons at the front are functional. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Original uncut length. Tagged a modern 0DLR 8
Bust: each halter covers approx 10" across from side to side
Seam at the top of the 4" band: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist seam at the bottom of the band: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 26" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 13" from the top of the shoulder to the top of the waist band
Total length: 62" from top of the bust to front hem, 62" to the back hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG
Item# DD4758
Reference Photos: (1) Spring 2020 Oscar de la Renta ready-to-wear Look 36
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
john galliano
Iconic Fall 2005 John Galliano Black Silk Bias Cut Dress w Plunge Front & Lace Trimmed Cap Sleeves
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The twin of this dress was worn by Anne in 2006 for her character's big scene where she attends the Met Gala near the end of the film. It is an iconic piece and I love it. John Galliano began his own label in 1984 and he was instantly a bit of a 'boy wonder; in fashion. He was British Fashion Council Designer of the Year in 1987, 1994 and 1995. In 1991 he made his Paris catwalk debut. In 1995 he was asked to head Givenchy and then went to Dior in October of 1996. Unlike many designers he kept his own label going as well throughout the years at both those houses. His work, especially the bias cut pieces that he did, have a feeling of the decadence and abandonment of the twenties and they are beautifully cut. They marry Old Hollywood with the minimalist spirit of the nineties and early 2000s and the results are stunning. This is an amazing example of his work from the Fall 2005 season and it is gorgeous. This dress was a piece made for production for retail but it has all the things we love about his work presented in a chic and minimalist package.
The dress is gorgeous. It definitely takes inspiration from the bias cut couture pieces of the 20s and 30s. The seam work and simplicity of this dress is stunning to see and it is even better on an actual body. It is made from a beautiful black silk that has a muted satin finish. It has that that same light in weight feel that the best of the 1930s pieces did that were made from similar fabrics. Like those liquid dresses of the thirties this is also cut on the bias. It is cut to flow over the body and skim its way over the bust, waist and hips as it falls to the floor. The neckline is finished with a wide band that curves around your neck and swoops down and across the front. That swooping plunge is slightly set to the side and there is a small hidden hook to hold it in place. If that hook is left undone the plunge becomes deeper and I took a shot of that for you. Pretty seaming through the bodice gives it a slight bit of shape until it meets the dropped waist line. The waist is detailed with three bands of pleating that wrap horizontally around you. It is set wider on the side where it buttons and then narrows down on the other side on a slight slant. That bit of an angle there is a clever way to add length through the body. The skirt flows down to the floor, skimming over the hips, and then flaring out as it reaches the hem. The flaring shape is achieved by the bias cut of the fabric rather then extensive seaming. This gives you a ton of movement around the lower skirt when you walk or move. It also adds to the hourglass shape the dress has. It is all done so that it sits in a certain way on your hips and then that in turn affects how the entire dress sits on your body. The sleeves are incredible. They are sat in a little cape like panel that curves around you. It starts at the front and curves over your shoulders to give you that little cap sleeve feel and then it continues around the back in a dropped curved. The edges are finished with a fine black floral lace. I love how the lace is set into the silk of the panel to follow that pattern that is in the lace. At the side the dress is finished with one of his signature rows of tightly spaced button and loop closures. This becomes a design detail in themselves and it is these subtle little details that Galliano put into his dresses that make them heads above other pieces. I have seen this dress shown with a velvet floral belt piece that sits on one hip and you could easily add something to get that look if you wished. The dress is spectacular. Excellent condition.
Unlined and closes with the buttons down one side. Tagged a Galliano FR42, GB14, US8. The bias cut fabric does have some stretch. The measurements below give you the comfortable range the fabric has when lying flat. The rubber label was reattached just to the side of the original holes after it split during the cleaning process. A common occurrence with this label. It is in its original supermodel length. The bias cut should allow it to fit a range of sizes
Bust: 17-21" flat across from side seam to side seam
Dropped waist: 14-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18-22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: approx 18" from neck to dropped seam
Total length: 61" from neck to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4753
Reference Photos: The Devil Wears Prada, 2006.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
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This dress is a version that was made for the shops, and seems to best be derived from the combination of Look 45 and the print of Look 53 from the runway. This same scenic print on the skirt version also appeared in the ad campaign that year. The reviews for this season were stellar. Vogue.com said of this collection: "Audiences always arrive at Prada shows tingling with anticipation, braced for Miuccia Prada's next departure from the last season's plot. This time, she confounded expectation again, not by taking off in a new direction, but by developing the cache of ideas layered into her spring collection. "It was a dream of extreme romanticism," she said. "The idea of eighteenth-century painting, with video games. A romanticism between past and future."
Pieces from this collection sold out worldwide and were wait-listed everywhere. It was an incredible testament to her ability to take elements from the past and make it feel fresh. This dress is particularly beautiful in my opinion. It is made out of feather light silk chiffon and then has that magnificent soft painted scene screened onto the surface. The silk has a touch of texture to it which adds to its vintage flare. The dress is sleeveless and simply ties in the back above an open keyhole. A 5" wide panel runs down the full front of the dress and it has been top-stiched and finished with vertical pleats. This adds a wonderful high detailing that gives a layered effect to the print feeling the dress has. It skims over the bust and waist with a slightly more an easy and generous feel. Under that the skirt flares out and there is two added 10 inch panels that create a ruffle around the inner lining of the dress to help hold the shape of the skirt that she desired it to have. The final finishing touch is the extensive bead work done around the neckline and applied onto a black silk chiffon base. It combines tiny black glass tube beads with beads of different sizes and shapes, along with prongs set black rhinestones. This bead work was a signature look of the collection. This is an easy dress to wear and has a chic and easy feel to it that I absolutely love. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition
Fully lined in a brown silk and closes with a hidden set side zipper and a tie at the back of the neck as shown. Tagged a modern Prada 40
Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14.5" from top of shoulder to waist
Total Length: 40" from shoulder to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD4752
Reference Photos/Video: (1-2) Fall 2004 Prada, Look 45. / (3) Fall 2004 Prada, Look 53. / (4) Karen Elson for the Fall 2004 Prada Ad Campaign by Steven Meisel.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
chanel
Pristine Pre-Fall 2012 Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Metallic Gold Detailed Suit w Gripoix Buttons
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This little Chanel suit is stunning. It is from the Pre-Fall 2012 collection and a version in a different colourway walked the runway for Look 32. The collection was a "salute to the work of the craftspeople who make Chanel happen, including the recently passed François Lesage (hence the name, Métiers d'Art), was definitely a feat of creative excess, from the jaw-dropping set, which turned a curved space under the dome of the Grand Palais into a corner of Rajasthan, to the clotted silver embroideries, the gilded laces, the lustrous silks that determined the character of the clothes." said Vogue. "The theme "Paris-Bombay" was a reminder that Europe's fashion industry has increasingly turned to India to produce extravagantly hand worked pieces." The suit was beautiful in the pale green that it was shown on the runway and it is equally as beautiful in this darker colour that I think makes it even more versatile.
Both pieces are constructed from a lightweight house boucle that showcases a combination of red and gold metal threads layered into the base fabric along with teeny tiny gold sequins. The combination of these elements creates a rich texture and the metallic colour that you see. In person, you realize the base colour of the suit is actually a black mixed with the deepest blue yarn. The gold and red threads along with those tiny gold sequins give it an almost brown feeling the farther away you are from it. It is quite beautiful. The fabric is woven on the bias in the traditional manner of their boucles and this is what gives the fabric its movement while still holding the shape beautifully. It is absolutely beautiful. And of course being two pieces means that you instantly have endless styling options to mix and match with other pieces from your wardrobe The suit is edged with a fringe of the same fabric and this gives it some added texture. The fringe runs around the neck, down the front edge and circle around the hem of both the jacket and the skirt. It also details each cuff and the pockets. The jacket is cut in that classic Chanel box shape with a slight outward swing by the hem. The sleeves are to just past the elbow and they are cut wide and full. Each is just under 17" around. Pockets sit on each side at the front with their little tufted edging and button detailing. The jacket has two buttons at the neck to close and then it falls open under that. The skirt is cut with a slight flare as it nears the hem. It has a simple waist with no banding. The upper part of the skirt is more fitted around the hips and then it opens up to create the chic and simple line that you see. The entire suit is perfectly lined in a black silk and a signature Chanel chain is hand set inside the hem of the jacket. I especially love the buttons on the jacket. Each has poured glass gripoix and combine deep, red and gold along with tiny Chanel double C's. The suit even has a little removable and combine deep, red and gold along with tiny Chanel double C's. The suit even has a little removable brooch Camellia brooch in a gold boucle. I love it. This is classic Chanel and it is exceptional. Excellent condition.
Both pieces are fully lined in a black silk. The skirt closes with a Hidden set back zipper and the jacket buttons to close at the neck as described above. Each pocket buttons to close. Very light padding in each shoulder. The brooch is removable and fasten by a pin. The texture is even better in person end it has more of a metallic feel as the sequins catch the light. The jacket is tagged a Chanel 44 and the skirt a 40.
And just a note on their fabrics.... The Chanel boucle and tweeds are created with their proprietary method of weaving that they themselves describe as "by weaving the warp and weft, using a variety of different kinds of threads which creates a unique and somewhat irregular appearance. The warp – vertically strung – is the background of the fabric, the base that will support the assembly of materials. There can be up to 12 different threads used for a single warp. The weft – woven horizontally – gives the fabric its unique character and can have an unlimited number of threads. Tight, perforated, textured, thick, with a relief, plaited, random, twill… the potential number of effects is endless". This technique gives you that classic Chanel look.
Jacket
Sleeve: 17" and are 18" around the upper arm
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: t0 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bottom hem: 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 23" from neck to hem
Skirt
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 19.5" from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4751
Reference Photo/Video: Pre-Fall 2012 Chanel, Look 32.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
givenchy
Spectacular 1970s Givenchy One Shoulder Silk Dress w Brilliant Blue, Deep Purple & Emerald Green Panels
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In 1952, Givenchy founded his namesake house on Rue Alfred de Vigny in Paris and quickly rose to fame as one of the grand couturiers. 16 years later for the 1968-69 season, he added The dress is incredibly well-made with an inner lining of silk, organza and ribbon edge finishing. I absolutely love this dress in pink is spectacular. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition.a ready-to-wear line of clothing and accessories called 'Givenchy Nouvelle Boutique'. The line was initially sold in the United States exclusively through Bergdorf Goodman stores and was eventually available at other retailers as well. The line was high end and extremely well made. He launched this line to expand his customer base and it made to appeal specifically to his non-couture clients. This label continued until 1992. This dress has the Givenchy Boutique label with the Nouvelle added and as far as I am aware this label was usually reserved for special orders made through the atelier. It could not be more gorgeous.
This dress is just extraordinary. Like the Galanos dress that am listing today it is made from long vertical silk panels that are pieced together to create the beautiful array of colours that you see. The dress combines a deep purple with an emerald green and a brilliant blue. The colour combination of those highly saturated colours is beautiful to see in person. The dress sweeps up and over one shoulder with a wide strap. All three colours make an appearance on both the back and the front of the dress end it is the same panel from the top of the shoulder all the way to the hem. The level of pre-planning and construction that would have been employed to be able to pull this off should not be overlooked. The final result may appear simple but this is a feat in patterning. On the side that has the purple silk and the bare shoulder the silk has been gathered in along the side seam so that you have a bit of softness there. The rest of the silk gathers into the waist and this creates that touch of volume through the bodice. I love the bareness of the single shoulder. I have cinched in the waist with a matching velvet blue ribbon that will be included. You could easily add any of the colours that you see in the dress or wear it without a belt. Under that the skirt sweeps out to the floor and all of the fullness that you see is created by the way that the silk is gathered in through the waist and by the lightness of the silk taffeta. I used no underskirting in any of these photos. The silhouette is all created by the masterful tailoring of the piece. The lightness of the silk also allows the skirt to billow out around you when you move. The dress is incredibly well-made with an inner lining of silk organza and ribbon edge finishing. I absolutely love this dress and think that it is spectacular. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition.
Fully interlined in silk organza through the skirt and a blue silk through the bodice. It closes with a handset side zipper. The belt is not original to the dress, but will be included. Ribbon edge finishes and handstitching. It appears the hem was brought up at some point so there is extra fabric turned under the hem.
Bust: 16-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: approx 15.5" from top of shoulder to waist
Total length: 60" from top of shoulder to hem with 3" turned under the hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4750
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
christian dior
Prettiest Fall 1977 Christian Dior by Marc Bohan Runway On or Off Shoulder Ruffle Dress w Balloon Sleeves
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This is a very pretty and easy to wear Fall 1977 runway dress from Christian Dior from the Marc Bohan years. It is a wonderful example of the work being done during this time period. It is also a dress that we were very happy to be able to date and document. The runway photos give you a great idea of how it looks on the body and I love that you have the option of wearing the neckline on or off the shoulder. I have also included a press advanced photo of a shorter version of the dress in the same colour just so you can see that this is the colour that was used for the show. Bohan often showed two or three versions of pieces in the same fabrics and the dress I have for you today is the twin of the longer runway piece. It is fantastic.
This gorgeous dress has a bit of a bohemian vibe to it and that combined with the deep mustard colour and feather light silk chiffon make it a heavenly piece. If I was perfectly honest, I don't even think that it photoed that well because when I see it in person I feel like it is a million times better. It is really a dress that needs a body in it to fully come to life and be worn properly. The silk chiffon is covered in a pretty delicate print that covered the entire dress. I love the care that has been put into making sure that the print follows the different elements of the dress perfectly. This would have taken extra fabric and extra care so that it all lays as perfectly as it does. The silk chiffon is light in weight and floats beautifully over the body. The neckline is ruffled and has an elastic that runs through it. This allows you to wear it up on top of the shoulders or you can pull it down so that it is sitting off the shoulders. The front ties with a black velvet ribbon above a keyhole. The body of the top is loose and full and skims down to an easy cut waist. On the runway you can see that it was shown with a black velvet belt and I have added a velvet ribbon in one shot here that I will include. Each sleeve is full and billows out above a ruffled cuff that is detailed with another little velvet bow. The skirt falls to the floor and widens out as it nears the hem. It is made out of five tiers of ruffled silk chiffon and these add incredible movement when you move. I love the versatility of the shoulder and how the feel of the dress changes depending on whether you wear it belted or not. It is also so well made that I think you could choose to turn it around and have the keyhole and bow at the back if you wished. The sheer lightness of it is amazing and makes it very easy and comfortable to wear. It is fabulous. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition.
Unlined and slips over the head to wear. The neckline, waist and cuffs have elastic and the neckline ties to close.
Sleeves: approx 27"
Shoulders: no true defined seams
Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Dropped bodice: approx 20" from top of bodice to waist
Total length: " from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4746
Reference Photos: (1) Fall 1977 Christian Dior Ready To Wear Advance. / (2-5) Fall 1977 Christian Dior Runway.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
christian dior
Spring 1977 Christian Dior by Marc Bohan Runway Documented White Silk & Multi Coloured Stripe Dress
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This is a very pretty and easy to wear Christian Dior dress from the Marc Bohan years. I have had the cotton versions of this in the past but this is the first silk version I have found. It is a wonderful example of the work being done for day wear during this time period. It is also a dress that is fabulously documented. It was part of the press package prior to the collection release and we found the runway photo of it as well. I love that you can tuck the straps in and wear this as a strapless dress if you wanted.
The dress is made from a white silk that has a horizontal stripes running through it in various bright colours. This is a play on that classic summer tube dress that was all the rage in the late 1970s. You just slip it on and it sits suspended from the shoulders and those tiny blue straps that match the top stripe. There's a little decorative bow at the front and both the neckline of the top and the waist to have a touch of elastic in them so it's easy to fit. You literally just slipped this over the head and go. It is cut straight across the top and the bodice is cut to skim over you to the waist. I prefer it to sit more loosely so you get that sense of swing the dress has but you could also bring the length of the skirt up and having the top blouse over it more. I shot one photo like that for you so you can see. The skirt widens out to be quite full by the time it reaches its hem. It is made of three tiers of fabric and each widens out more as it goes down to the hem. This gives you lovely movement when you move. It is fantastic. Excellent condition.
Unlined and slips on to wear. The elastic through the neckline and waist is currently set to be quite loose and easy, but it would be a simple job to have your seamstress tighten it if needed to get the perfect fit. The easy cut should allow it to fit on a range of sizes. There is a bit of an illusion of colour run around the red striping because of the way, the colour reflects on the silk but when you look at it closely, it's almost imperceptible. I am being very picky
Bust: to 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Elastic waist: 12.5-17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Slightly dropped bodice: 19"
Total length: 54" from top of shoulder to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED
Item# DD4747
Reference Photos: (1) Spring 1977 Christian Dior. / (2) Christian Dior Show at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, March 1977.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
oscar de la renta
Dreamiest Spring 2005 Oscar de la Renta Runway Print Silk Chiffon Caftan Dress W Beaded Detailing
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This is one of the prettiest Oscar dresses I have ever had in the shop and I love it. The movement it has when it is on and you walk is just incredible. It is a piece that was produced for the shops and you can see that it is a combination of the two looks that walk the runway that season for Looks 21 and 22. I have included photos of those here so you can get an idea of how wonderful it will be on the body. I am kind of obsessed with it. In the review of the show Vogue's Janet Ozzard said in part "Whether or not you live the life that demands an Oscar de la Renta wardrobe, his collections are a delight to the eyes: flawlessly executed, poised and urbane, with just the right balance of mature charm and youthful exuberance"... and for these wonderful chiffon pieces she noted that "Tropical climates are second nature to him, and that shows in his deep, rich hues: chocolate, red, orange, and pink, played off white, navy, and beige." It is just the prettiest and I think it might be one of my favourite Oscar pieces that I have had in the shop.
The dress is made from a single layer of that pretty printed silk chiffon through the bodice and sleeves and then the skirt stacks two layers of the printed chiffon over top of each other. There is a slit keyhole that runs from the neckline to the top of the band at the waist at both the front and back and each closes with the button at the neckline. The neckline is set slightly wide across your shoulders and the sleeves extend out from the shoulders at the top and then from the top of the band at the waist. This makes them very wide and full. It is really what gives it that slightly caftan feel that the dress has. I love it. A wide band circles your waist and it has been heavily embellished with metal thread, beads in various sizes and colours, along with prong set rhinestones. The embellishment is fantastic and it wraps all the way around you to add a beautiful detailing to the dress. The skirt flows to the floor under that with a high slit up the front that allows some leg to show when you walk. There is quite a lot of fabric in the skirt. It is all softly gathered into the waist and then falls outwards to the floor. The lightness of the chiffon allows it to float and billow around you as you walk and move. It is spectacular. I love how the front of the dress has that strong band of colour that runs down its front for an extra pop. It is an extraordinary piece. Excellent condition.
The bodice and sleeves are unlined and the skirt is a double layer of the silk chiffon as described above. It closes with a series of hook & eye and snaps from the top of the band of the waist downwards at the back. There is a button at the top of the keyhole on both the front and back. The back button looks like a replacement. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. The easy cut should allow it to fit a range of sizes
Sleeves: approx 27"
Shoulders: no true defined seam
Bust: no true defined seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 13.5" from top of shoulder to top of the 4.5" band at the waist
Total Length: " from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4748
Reference Photos: (1) Spring 2005 Oscar de la Renta Look 21. Model Julia Stegner. / (2) Spring 2005 Oscar de la Renta Look 22. Model Cintia Dicker.
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roberto cavalli
Incredible Fall 2007 Roberto Cavalli Ivory Pleated Silk Jersey Dress w Front Plunge & Rhinestones
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This Roberto Cavalli dress is from the Fall 2007 collection and it is gorgeous. Its near twin in an iridescent green walked the runway that season for Look 43 and then this dress was produced for the shops in this deeper ivory colour. I included both the reference show photos as well as the video clip from the show so that you can get an idea of how spectacular the dress will move once on the body as the cut is so similar. Victoria Silvstedt also wore its twin to the Orange British Academy Film Awards in 2008. It is gorgeous
The dress is made from am ivory coloured silk crepe jersey combined with silver dome studs and crystal rhinestones. The fabric has been softly pleated vertically in a very Grecian - Fortuny type feel and this treatment lets the dress have its beautiful movement when you walk. Two wide straps curved over the shoulders and the the bodice has a deep plunge down the front. Inside the bodice there is a full built in boned and cupped inner body suit for shaping and it also keeps the dress perfectly in place. At the back it drops into a low square to leave an open expanse of bare skin. The bodice is detailed with strips of rhinestones and metal studs and it is placed just above each breast and then wraps down and around to the back where it extends out into a strip that hooks into place across your open back. Another length of the same detailing goes all the way around the waist to help define your shape and add curves. The skirt is remarkable. It is in its original supermodel uncut length. Here the pleats open up from the waist and this gives the skirt it's incredible movement and fullness when you move. When you are standing still you get a long column of silk but then when you move the skirt billows out around you. A high slit runs up the front that helps add to that movement and gives you a flash of leg. The fabric is light enough that when you walk it creates this incredible floating sensation. The back is cut slightly longer than the front and I love the sweep behind you that it creates. It is an incredibly beautiful dress and no matter how good it looks in the photos the sensation and tactile feeling of the fabric and pleat work when you have it in hand is just phenomenal. It is a beautiful and glamorous dress that is red carpet worthy and would make an amazing wedding dress for the bride looking for a non-traditional choice or as an alternative dress in a more extended wedding celebration. And of course it could also be worn to any big event. It was never worn and has its original hang tag in place. Excellent condition.
Fully lined in a matching colour silk jersey. The halter has a built-in bodysuit that hooks to close beneath you and is boned and shaped through the bodice. Built-in lightly padded cups. It closes with a low set zipper and hooks above that. The strap that runs across the back hooks into place. Tagged a Cavalli 42 and has its original hang tag attached
Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam and you could easily reduce the strap at the back to make it smaller if needed
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15.5" from top of shoulder to waist
Total length: 60" from top of shoulder to front hem, 67" to the back hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4745
Reference Photos/Video: (1-3) Fall 2007 Roberto Cavalli, Look 43. Model Caroline Trentini. / (4) Fall 2007 Roberto Cavalli Ad. / (5) Kate Moss, in Cavalli, by Lachlan Bailey for Vogue, December 2007. / (6-7) Victoria Silvstedt, in Cavalli, at the Orange British Academy Film Awards, February 2008.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
valentino
Recent Ivory Valentino by Pier Paolo Piccioli w Draped Cape Back Panel & Bare Upper Back
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This is a more recent dress by Valentino and it looks to have never been worn or worn very little. Its simple lines and perfect ivory make it the perfect dress for someone that loves minimalism. It has such a simple and elegant lines that are immensely flattering at the same time. The fabric is that fine wool with a touch of silk in it that became a Valentino signature under Pier. The dress does not have a single unnecessary seam. Even with its simplicity it would still be a dress that is red carpet worthy or would make an amazing wedding dress for the bride looking for a non-traditional choice or as an alternative dress in a more extended wedding celebration. And of course it could also be worn to any other event.
The fabric used has a beautiful drape that is just heavy enough to hold the lines and shape of the dress and still feel easy to wear. It lets it move so beautifully over the body once it is on. It is constructed so that it drapes and skims over the body perfectly. The bodice is cut into a bit of a squared off shape and it extends into wider straps. These curve up and over the shoulder, and then narrow down into slimmer straps that connect to the low back. The upper back is left bare and this contrast to the more covered front is very pretty and adds a touch of subtle sexiness. The skirt falls to the floor in a sweeping expanse of fabric that becomes quite wide as it nears the hem. Coming out from the seam that runs along the low back is the second panel of fabric that sweeps out and around you to create a draping effect. It falls to the floor to create this elegant and dramatic sweep of fabric behind you. It is very beautiful and it has pockets. Excellent condition
Fully lined in an ivory silk and closes with a hidden set back zipper. It looks to have been worn very little if at all. Tagged a modern Valentino size 42.
Bust: the front covers 16.5" flat across with no true side seams
Seam under the bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Natural waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 9.5" from top of shoulder to seam under the bust
Total length: 56" from top of shoulder to front hem, 59" tot he back hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4743
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stella mccartney
Prettiest Resort 2016 Stella McCartney Look 8 Crisply Tailored Jacket & Pant Suit w Floral Embroidery
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The twin of this suit was shown for Look 8 of the Resort 2016 Stella McCartney collection. I think it was the strongest look of the show and I love that Stella herself loved it so much that she wore a version to the show. Karlie Kloss also wore one and having all these reference photos gives you a great idea of what it looks like once on the body. It is a great suit that is both an amazing basic but with a pop and some personality. I love it.
This suit is the perfect example on how to take a classic, basic set and really add details to make it outstanding. It is made from a fine black wool that is just heavy enough to hold the shape, but not so heavy that it is uncomfortable when worn. The jacket is precisely cut and tailored. Sleeves are cut long and simple and the shoulders are structured with a small amount of padding inside to hold the shape. The front lapel is shaped and notched with a nod to a tuxedo in shape. It is cut so that it comes in at the waist and flares out a bit at the hip. It has a touch of an oversized shape to it in comparison to the cut of the pants. Though I feel that when you see it on my dress form this feels more emphasized then how it is in real life. You can see in the reference photos that once it is on a body it has a really nice balance. A slit pocket sits on one breast and it still has its original hidden tacking in place. Two flat pockets sit on each hip and they also have their tacking in place. The pants play on a classic men's pant. They have a flat front with a banded waist and two tiny curved faux slip pockets high on the hip just under the waistband. They are cut to sit slightly low on the hip. There is a sharp fold running down the front and back of the pants. The pants narrow down and then have a tiny flare at their bottom. They might sit slightly cropped depending on your height. I love that you can wear these together or break the set up and mix and match with pieces in your existing wardrobe. The suit appears to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition.
The jacket is lined her signature black slightly ribbed lining fabric and the pants are unlined. The jacket closes with two buttons at the front as seen. The pants zip to close and then have a hidden button and hook and eye at the band of the waist. All the pockets on the jacket have their original tacking. The jacket is tagged a McCartney 44 and the pants a size 42.
Jacket
Sleeves: 22" and 13.75" around the upper arm
Slightly dropped shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 30.5 from neck to hem
Pant
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 41.5" waist to hem
Inseam: 30.5" from inner seam to hem
Rise: 16" from top of back waist to inner seam
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4740
Reference Photos: (1) Resort 2016 Stella McCartney Look 8. / (2-4) Stella McCartney Resort 2016 Presentation (Model in suit is Tiana Tolstoi). / (5) Karlie Kloss in Stella McCartney, 2016.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
celine
Well Documented Resort 2012 Celine by Phoebe Philo Floral Top or Jacket & Cropped Pant Suit
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This is an extremely well documented set by Phoebe Philo from her Celine days. This was an amazing year for Phoebe. The week before this collection was show she accepted the International Award from the CFDA. Then she presented this collection and it was a hit and received rave reviews. Vogue said that "Philo is still pushing the wardrobe concept, covering the basics and then some. The thing is, in her hands nothing is ever basic: bold, or maybe even brave, is more like it." The twin of this set, with a jacket added over them was show for Look 6 and they were mentioned specifically in that review; "Philo is still pushing the wardrobe concept, covering the basics and then some. The thing is, in her hands nothing is ever basic: bold, or maybe even brave, is more like it... Her three-piece suit (jacket, pants, button-down) is cut in an oversize floral—her minimalist phase may be over." This look was a hit with the fashion set and it was used in several editorials that season. It is a fantastic set that is pristine and still feels off the rack new.
It is so rare to find these two pieces selling together. You almost always see them sold separately and it might be worth it to the person who buys this to hunt down the matching jacket at some point as well. The set I have for you today is made up of the pants and oversized button down. The fabric that she used for both pieces is a crisp cotton that holds the shape she wanted and that gorgeous bright floral print perfectly. The floral print covers the entire surface of for both pieces for a maximalist print on print feel. I love the boldness that this creates. The pants have a flat banded waist that is meant to sit slightly low on the hips and then the legs narrow down to a cropped peg leg. The top is cut with with a more oversized feel and the crispness of the cotton makes it feel almost like a light jacket/top. It has a small near collar and long straight sleeves. The sleeves both end in an exaggerated 5 1/2 inch narrow cuff. It is cut full and easy through the body with a straight long, feel to it. It buttons down the front and the buttons are hidden underneath a panel of the same fabric. The hem curves up at the sides with notches so you can easily tuck your hands into the pockets of the pants to get a cool slouchy feel. You can wear the pieces together for a strong statement or break up the set and wear them as separates with other pieces in your closet for lots of styling options. It looks to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition
Both pieces are unlined. The pants have a flat waist and a zipper and the top buttons to close. Each cuff button tends to close. Pockets on each hip of the pant and slit pockets at the back of the pants that are both still tacked into place. Both pieces are tagged a modern 38
Top
Sleeves: 26" and 12" around the upper arm
Shoulders: 15"
Bust-hips: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 31" from neck to hem
Pants
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam with no give
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 34" from waist to hem
Inseam: 24.5"
Rise: 15" from the top of the back waist to the inner seam
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD4741
Reference Photos: (1) Resort 2012 Celine, Look 6. Model Monica Sawicka. / (2-3) Lina Zhang for Marie Claire China, January 2012. / (4) L'Officiel Magazine, December 2011. / (5) Photo by Thomas Straub for IO Donna, November 2011. / (6) Agyness Deyn photographed by Patrick Demarchelier for British Vogue January 2012. / (7) Charlotte Free in Celine, by Elena Rendina for Wonderland Magazine, November/December 2011. / (8) G-Dragon for Vogue Korea, March 2012. / (9) Miranda Kerr, July 2012.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
chloe
Intricate Cut Outs Fall 1993 Chloe by Karl Lagerfeld Runway Wide Legged Jumpsuit w Dress Overlay
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The twin of this set walked the Fall 1993 Chloe runway and was worn by none other then the great Kate Moss. In 1992 Lagerfeld had once more come back to design for the Chloe label after two previous stints at the brand. In the book "Chloe Catwalk" the write up on this collection shares that WWD called the three Paris collections that he designed that season (his own, Chanel and Chloe) Karlie's Angels. I love that. The show was full of romantic loose silhouettes, sexy dresses and velvets. WWD went on to declare the show one of the best of the European season. We have included a photo of the dress on the runway and its appearance in the Chloe book. I have had this in my archive for quite some time, and always knew it was special, so it was very gratifying to finally be able to date this one. And I love the tie in with Kate.
This is a phenomenal set because it is actually three looks in one. You can wear the inner jumpsuit on its own, the outer tunic is long enough to be worn as a dress on its own, and then of course you can layer them on top of each other to get the full runway look. This makes the set incredibly versatile. That, combined with its provenance, makes this set extra special. Both pieces are made out of a light weight black silk crepe with open cut work embroidered type detailing. The inner jumpsuit is suspended from the shoulders with tiny little straps in the same fabric. The bodice is simple and easy and meant to skim over you. It is cut loose and easy through the waist and then skims over the hips. The pants are wide and open. They are full 30 inches around in width which gives them incredible movement. Each pant is finished with a panel of fabric that is this incredible open cut work and embroidery. It wraps around the hem and finishes off the final 10" of each leg. Then you slip the outer piece over that. That piece has a high neck made of black silk netting and then that same netting extends down and underneath the embroidered panel at the front. The shoulders are soft and the arms are cropped to just above the wrist. Another 10" wide panel is set in the middle of each sleeve and then there is another 2" of the embroidery at the end of each cuff. The waist is cut on the more loose and easy side and there is an attached tie belt on either side of the front panel that you can use to cinch in the waist. The ties are extra long so you can tie them at the back and let then hang or wrap them around to create a really cinch look. The skirt is gathered into the waist in soft pleats and then it opens up from there. The skirt is also finished with another 10" panel of the cut work. Once altogether, everything perfectly falls and balances each other out. It is just an incredible thing to see and wear. All you have to do is see what it looks like on Kate to know how amazing this set is. This is a very rare and special piece. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition.
Both pieces are unlined. The jumpsuit zips to close at the back and has a slight touch of transparency to it. The dress zips to close at the back and buttons at the back of the neck. The tie belt is attached at the waist.
Outer Dress
Neck: 15" around
Sleeves: 21.5" and 14" around the upper arms.
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 26" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 15.6" neck to waist
Total length: 45.5" from waist to hem
Jumpsuit
Bust: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Seam under the bust: to 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14" from top of the shoulder to seam under the bust
Total length: 57" from top of the shoulder to hem
Inseam: 28"
Rise: 34" from top of the shoulder to inner seam
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED
Item# DD4742
Reference Photos: (1-3) Fall 1993 Chloe Runway. Model Kate Moss. / (4) From the book "Chloe: Catwalk" by Yale.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
gucci
Prettiest Resort 2013 Gucci by Frida Giannini Runway Look 12 Turquoise Plunge Silk Chiffon Ruffle Dress
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The Resort 2013 show marked Frida's seventh year with the label and at this point she was riding a high. Vogue noted that 'Giannini has been on a roll lately and the new lineup is a worthy successor to the hit she had on her hands in February.' The twin of this dress in a dark burgundy was shown for Look 12 in the show. I actually prefer this brighter, stronger turquoise as it pops more and feels so fresh and lovely. It is spectacularly beautiful. The longer dresses from this show where all made in limited quantities and this one in particular is one of the best of the collection. It is gorgeous.
I love that the photo from the show lets you see just how spectacular this dress is on the body. And I think that as good as it looks in the still shot, it is even better in real life and moving. Because it is really when you are moving that this dress lives up to its full potential. There is an incredible amount of feather light silk chiffon that has gone into this dress. It is amazing. The dress floats and billows around you with your slightest movement. The bodice falls in wide panels at the front with a plunge that goes right to the waist. On either side of that is a vertically gathered silk panel and I love how the outer edges expand and fall slightly past the shoulders for a pretty and soft effect. It does the same at the back. There is an equally as low back plunge and it is set so that the panels have a slight bit of drape to them. This lets them sit a little off of the body. This little detail adds such a pretty and feminine touch. Wide ruffles in the same silk are set across the top of the shoulders and then continue down to circle all the way around the openings for the arms. The waist is banded and cut to be more on the loose and easy side. If you wanted to add more shape you could easily add a belt. The skirt is remarkable. It is in its original supermodel length and the skirt is made out of two layers of that beautiful pale turquoise silk chiffon. The outer layer of the skirt has many yards of silk in it and it is constructed to have this incredible fullness and movement. The fabric is so light and fine that when you stand still it falls in a pretty column around you without adding bulk. You still get a hint of the fullness that it has but then when you move the many yards of fabric that is actually there allows the skirt to billow out around you. The fabric is so light and airy that when you walk it creates this incredible floating sensation. As good as it looks here it only really comes to life once on. It is an incredibly beautiful dress and no matter how good it looks in the photos the sensation and tactile feeling of the fabric and lightness when you have it in hand is just phenomenal. It is a beautiful. Excellent condition with a minor note below.
Lined in a second layer of the same turquoise silk chiffon. It closes with a hidden set zipper at the back and has an attached strap across the back of the neck to hold it in place. I see a tiny area that has lightened slightly at the front plunge. It is along the very inner pleat at the edge so the pleat that sits above it actually hides it and you don't see it. You could actually have it folded over once more by seamstress if it bothered you and you'd never see it. Please see the photo after the label shot. Tagged a Gucci 46. The colour is a touch paler turquoise then how it photoed
Bust: variable and open
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Inner lining at hips: to 23" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 17" from top of shoulder to the top pf the band at the waist
Total length: 67" from top of shoulder to the hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG
Item# DD4738
Reference Photo: Resort 2013 Gucci, Look 12. Model Bette Franke.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
gucci
Pre-Fall 2011 Gucci by Frida Giannini Runway Closing Look 42 Black Mongolian Fur Cropped Jacket
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The Pre-Fall 2011 show was a nod the the early 1970s and all the glam that we associate with that time period. Vogue's review of the show said; "Once upon a time, Giannini designed a women's collection for Gucci that was inspired by Ziggy Stardust. Here it was possible to detect intimations of David Bowie just before his glittery watershed: the 'Hunky Dory' voluminous pants with the deep box pleat, for instance, and the 'Space Oddity' Mongolian lamb...The shagginess of the lamb called to Every woman's Inner Barbarian (especially when Giannini made it as easy as zipping on a pair of shaggy armlets or slipping into a shrug)...Weightless, luxuriant, they felt like bare essentials for a twenty-first-century wild child." The twin of this jacket was in the closing Look 42 of the presentation and it is fantastic. The Mongolian pieces from this collection where all made in limited quantities. It is gorgeous.
The first thing that strikes you about this jacket is that it is beautifully light in weight. In part that is accomplished by the fact that the lining is an almost weightless silk and the Mongolian hearts are stacked onto that silk in a great formation, so the jacket has the volume you see but it keeps light in weight. It's cropped and the bottom edge is rounded so that it falls just to the low back and then rounds up the sides to meet the sleeves. This keeps it snug back to the sides to allow whatever you're wearing underneath to show. It's a very clever design. There is no caller and no closures. You just slip it on to wear. The sleeves are stunning. They are cut on a curve to follow the shape of the arm, and they are very full, narrowing down a bit to the rest. This keeps the volume that you see, but makes it extremely flattering on the body at the same time. Sometimes Mongolian jackets are cut so bulky that they lose their flattering aspects. This one follows the curve and cotton body and is the perfect thing to throw on almost anything to add a bit of that 70s glam even if it was made in 2011. I love it. Excellent condition.
Fully lined in a black silk and slips on to wear with no closures. Tagged a Gucci 44. It appears to have been worn very little, if at all. This is a very hard piece to measure because of the cut and it's cut small. I've given approximate below.
Sleeves: approx 25" and 16" around the upper arm
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust-bottom: approx 17" flat across from side seam to side seam comfortably but open at the front
Total length at the back: 17" from neck to hem and then the fur extends past about 4.5"
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED
Item# DD4729
Reference Photo: Pre-Fall 2011 Gucci, Look 42. Model Martha Streck.
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.
madame gres
Elegant 1970s Madame Gres Haute Couture Chocolate Brown Day Dress w Full Sleeves & Collar
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Madame Gres' work has had profound effects on Haute Couture and her influence still resonates to this day. Her attention to detail, master draping techniques and respect for the female form is unparalleled. She was known for designing and creating garments directly on her models and this became a signature of her work. She opened her first atelier, La Maison Alix in 1932. A partnership briefly changed the house's name to Alix Barton and then the label went to simply Alix. In 1942 she married, and the label made its last change to became Madame Gres, which was a partial anagram of Serge, her husband's first name. Her work spans over five full decades with the vast majority of it, with the exception of a short-lived RTW line begun in 1980, dedicated solely to creating Haute Couture. She is one of the greatest couturiers of our time and her pieces are very rare and hard to find. This dress is from the same client that some of the others are and also from the early to mid-seventies.
The dress is amazing and showcases how wonderful and diverse Gres could be with her work. The dress is made entirely by hand and the silk is that heavier weight that feels expensive. The top is cut to skim over you to the high set empire waist. The shoulders are soft and the sleeves are more full and pouf out just slightly as they skim down to the banded cuffs. The collar is neat and pointed above an opening at the front that you can wear closed or open. I love the two little faux flap pockets that sit along the high set seam at the front. The skirt falls under that skimming over the natural waist and hips to a second seam that sits around the top of the thigh. The last portion of the skirt flares out from there with quite a bit of fabric so that it has some movement when you move. The colour of the silk is a chic chocolate that is flattering on most skin tones. Inside it is a masterpiece of construction with hand done seaming and beautiful couture techniques. Truly a brilliant dress and when you see it in person you will fall in love with how good it is in person. A masterpiece. Excellent condition.
Unlined and all the inner work is done by hand to Haute Couture standards. It closes with a hand set side zipper and hidden set snaps at the neck. An inner waist stay hooks to close. Each cuff has buttons to close with proper buttonholes. Completely made by hand. Proper Haute Couture label present. Note that there is no change in colour on the dress anything you see is just lighting and the photos.
Sleeves: 23" and 14" around the upper arm
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist at high seam: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 20.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 12.5" from neck to high set waist seam
Total length: 45" from neck to hem with 2" turned under
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-MED
Item# DD4726
All items are thoroughly checked over before shipping. Unless noted everything in our shop has been professionally cleaned. All sales are final. Overseas clients will be emailed to obtain agreement to our final sales policy before the order is shipped as per our return policy.