Autumn/Winter Collection 1957-1958

Paris

A rare black ribbed satin cocktail dress from Christian Dior's last collection before his death on 23 October 1957. This model, numbered 90999, is faithful to the master's Fuseau line, which specifies that skirts are shorter and sheath-shaped, with long bodices and plunging bell-shaped necklines. This dress heralds the style of Yves Mathieu Saint Laurent, who would succeed Christian Dior. Here, the inner bustier is long, made of stiff tulle with boning, fastened at the back and featuring suspenders. The cut is prominent, with three-quarter sleeves, a Claudine neckline with lapels, a large bow matching the waist and a skirt with wide box pleats. The petticoats are impressive and correspond well to the bell shape with four petticoats, three of which are made of black tulle edged with horsehair and the last one in black taffeta. The ribbed satin is fully lined with black organza for a better fit. Zip fastening at the back. The label sewn into the boned bodice reads Autumn Winter 1957 Christian Dior Paris, with the printed number 90999. It should be noted that there is a poorly done repair under the right arm (approximately 1 cm, see last photo), which can easily be restored by a professional workshop, as well as a tiny unstitched area under the left armpit. These are the only flaws to report. The fabrics remain very resistant. The colour and overall condition are good.
Dimensions: Equivalent to French size 38. Size 72 cm, chest 90 cm, height 113 cm, shoulders 40 cm, sleeves 28 cm, skirt circumference approximately 360 cm.

Similar model for the cut : ‘Louvecienne’ model, Christian Dior Heritage, Paris

Quote from Christian Dior: ‘Yves Saint Laurent is young, but he has immense talent. In my latest collection, I estimate that out of 180 designs, he is responsible for 34. I think the time has come to reveal him to the press. My prestige will not suffer as a result.’ Christian Dior to Jacques Rouet, July 1957