Circa 1940

France

A stunning haute couture evening gown in black silk tulle and organza, in the style of Madeleine Vionnet or Paquin, dating from the 1940s. A sleeveless gown with an oval neckline and a skirt flaring out like a flower beneath the bust. The skirt is constructed on the bias with six conical panels flaring out 360°. The black silk tulle base plays on transparency with the applied black organza forming large overlapping drops extending all the way to the bottom of the skirt. Staggered floral motifs widen toward the bottom, visually amplifying the skirt’s volume. Bias-cut tulle trim on the neckline. Side zipper closure and slip, on which the Couture label was to be affixed. A few rare and tiny holes in the tulle. No stains or major flaws. Good overall structural condition. Rare piece.

Dimensions: Equivalent to French size 34-35. Height 141 cm, Shoulders 30 cm, Bust 82 cm, Waist 63 cm, Hips 88 cm, skirt hem circumference 480 cm.