Autumn Winter 1956-1957

Paris
Rare numbered Patron Original for a dinner dress in black silk faille, model called Sourire from the ligne Aimant - Christian Dior Haute Couture from the Autumn Winter 1956-1957 collection. This model has kimono sleeves with gussets for ease under the armpits. Hollow pleats and flat pleats organised obliquely under the plunging V neckline, prolonging a "haunted" silhouette as Christian Dior used to say. Whalebone bodice with back zip, fully lined in black tulle and extending into three layers of petticoats, the first of which is in black taffeta. The original sewn label in beige satin reads Patron Original Christian Dior, Paris, Made in France, numbered 05971. A handwritten cotton bolduc in the back of the skirt reads "sourire". A few tiny seam tears and whitish micro-spots (due to exposure to humidity), less visible in person than in photographs. Its structural condition remains stable and very good despite the tiny defects due to its age. For display or wear.
Similar models: Christian Dior Heritage, Paris.

Dimensions: French size 38 equivalent. Waist 74 cm, chest 93 cm, hips 114 cm, height 116 cm, shoulders 38 cm, sleeves 24 cm.

Gabrielle Chanel's first famous little black dress appeared in Vogue in October 1926, and the magazine called it "La Ford de Chanel". Since 1947, designer Christian Dior has been creating this New-Look silhouette, inherited from the basket dresses of the 18th century. The dress also embodied the theme of Paris, underlining the importance of the French capital in the couturier's imagination, as well as chic cocktail dresses and short evening gowns expressing the unbridled elegance of Parisian women.