Chic 1968 Pierre Cardin Haute Couture Dress w Graduated Hand Made Purple Guipure Crochet Lace

There is a certain 'mod' silhouette that we tend to associated with Pierre Cardin but he was actually a designer that had a huge range. At times some of his other silhouettes get overlooked and they should not be. This wonderful Haute Couture example is from the estate of Baronessde Alain nee Mary Chauvin du Treuil and it was made for her during the period of 1968-1970. It is a beautiful and elegant piece that may not be as 'mod' in feel as some of Cardin's other pieces during this time period but that does show the breadth of his talent and the elegance that he was also capable of.

The dress is made from a handmade crocheted Guipure lace. This type of lace is characterized by crocheted motifs that are held together by large connecting stitches. The colour of the thread work changes as it travels from shoulder to hem. It begins as a pale pink tinged french lavender colour at the top and then gradually deepens to a deep rich purple at the bottom. The texture and weight of the pattern changes as does the openness of the lace. There is a lighter, more open feel at the top, and then like the colour, it gets gradually denser as it reached the bottom hem. The shape is kept very simple so that the lace and colour take center stage. It falls in a sleek column over the body with just a subtle nod to shape through the waist. Underneath, it is lined in a high end pink silk whose colour peeks out through the outer layer. I love the wide cut sleeves and how they are finished following the pattern of the lace. Each shoulder has a slight high cap to it that is lovely. It is a dress that may seem unremarkable on a hanger but it transforms into a very chic and elegant piece once on the body. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a pink silk and closes with a hand set back painted metal zipper. Hand set lining and the crochet work is entirely done by hand. It looks to have been worn very little if at all. 

Sleeves: 20"
Shoulders: approx 14.5" but no true seam
Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 56" from top of shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD2903

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