This dress was designed by Belgian-born Jules-Francois Crahay, who headed the Lanvin ateliers from 1964-1984. He has been noted as one of fashion’s 'great colorists with his colorful patterns making his 1970s Lanvin designs hugely desirable and influential.' His time at the Lanvin label is one of my personal favourites for the house. I especially love the his work during the period through the late sixties and into the early 1970s. He was a genius at print and colour and he pushed the envelope in terms of using what was thought of as cutting edge fabrics that were available during this time period. This dress is is incredible and is stunning in person. The colour especially is even better in person then what the photos convey.
This dress is just gorgeous. At this time Lanvin was focused on balancing the desires of their more traditional long time clients with trying to appeal to their younger jet set client with easy-to-wear pieces. This stunning dress fits that bill perfectly and walks the line between the two. It is made out of a silk brocade done in two brilliant tones of blue. I love the swirling, slightly 3D feeling pattern that runs over the entire dress. The patterned parts have a slight metallic finish to them and are edged in a black to make the pattern pop. They catch the light wonderfully and give the dress a touch of high glamour. It is cut to skim over the bust and the neckline is squared off at the base. There is a modesty panel sewn in the plunge that brings the neckline up. You could easily un-tack and remove it if you wanted a true plunging feel to the front. A wide velvet sash wraps around the high set waist and ends in a large flat bow at the front. It is caught up with a curving rhinestone encrusted jewel piece. From there the dress skims down over the waist and hips. The skirt flares out beautifully as it reaches the hem. There are even pockets hidden along the front vertical seams. I love it. Excellent condition.
Fully lined in a black muslin and closes at the back with a zipper. The modesty panel is sewn in place but could easily be removed by taking out a few stitches. Some rhinestones are missing from the detailing at the front but it is not noticeable. Please see the photo after the label shot
Bust: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist at velvet sash: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 11" from neck to top of velvet sash at waist
Skirt: 45" from top of velvet sash at the waist to hem with 3" turned under
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD4138
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
