1990s Gianfranco Ferre Transparent Back w Bead Detailing Black Dress

Gianfranco Ferre is best known for his years at the helm of Dior where he headed the Atelier and House from 1989 until 1996. Prior to that he was designing his own line that launched in 1978 as a ready-to-wear line and then eventually added a couture line in 1986. This is an amazing gown from that period in the late 1980s - early 1990s that he was designing under his own name.

The dress showcases that wonderful minimalist feel that was the cornerstone of Ferre's best work. This approach to design is why I feel he is sometimes overlooked as a designer but it is work like this that stands the test of time. The dress is one long sheath with rope beading that highlights the lines and curves of the dress but in a very subtle way. It is the kind of dress that the closer you get to it the more you start to notice its genius. The top is cut with a simple scoop to the neck and capped sleeves. There is no horizontal seaming at the waist to break the line of the dress. It simply skims over the torso in a sleek column, gliding over the waist and flowing down into the skirt. The skirt is long and slim cut with a dramatic inset of black silk chiffon set into the back slit so that it trails down slightly past the hem and will create a bit of movement as you walk. The detail that he has added has been done with thick ropes of dense black seed beads. This is set around the neck and each sleeve. It trails down the center back to conceal hidden set hooks and then curves out on an angle at the back waist and down towards the hips at the from sides. This gives you a lovely curve and the illusion of bringing in the waist. Transparent black silk organza panels at the back offer just a glimpse of the skin under neath for the perfect finish. It is very flattering and the simplicity at first glance belies the masterful cut and line. Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a fine black silk and closes with a low back zipper that begins at the waist. Above that the back closed with a series of tightly spaced hook and eye. Hand finished interior seams. Note that it is cut very slim through the hips so sizing is mainly based on that measurement

Shoulders: No defined seam
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 57" from neck to front hem, the chiffon insert at the back extends another 1.5"

Modern Sizing equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD3275

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