The beading technique used on this dress is distinctive and it led me to a dress from this the Fall 1974 collection that uses the same beading technique. That one was photoed by Guy Bourdin for Vogue that season. And a twin of of that dress was auctioned off at Sotherby's with the final hammer reaching 3000 euros. Examples of Karl's work during this time period are held in museums around the world and are rare finds. This is an important piece of fashion history.
In person, this dress is even better then how it photoed. The cut is simple but it is very sexy with a wrapped feel to the bodice and its long silhouette. The dress is made out of a black silk crepe that has a slight bias cut to it that allows it to flow over the body and mold to your shape. Gold glass tube beads are applied in little angled rows over part of the bodice to highlight that feeling that the dress is wrapped around the body. The beads have been hand applied and are set onto the bodice on the one side up and curve up and around the neckline. From there they wrap around the waist and wrap around the hip in a long curve. This amazing design really emphasizes your curves. The neckline is high and the back curves and dips down quite low to leave the back bare. I love the wrapped illusion created by the way the beading is applied over the bodice and how the neckline curves up and around the neck in such a graceful line. The dress skims over the hips and flares out once it reaches the hem with a touch of a fishtail effect at the back and a side vent that really allows it to flare out as you walk. It is magic once on an actual body. Excellent condition
Partially lined on the same silk through the bodice and the skirt is unlined. It closes with a side painted metal zipper. Hand finished interior and beautifully constructed.
Bust: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 60" from neck to front hem, 62" to the back hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD3293
Reference Photos: F/W 1973-74 Chloe by Guy Bourdin for French Vogue.
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
