Balenciaga Haute Couture Wool Coat, c.1960

The silhouette of the coat is supported by internal layers of padding that extend down the front and back of the body from the shoulder. The padding smooths the shoulder line and widens the silhouette to achieve the famous Cocoon shape of the 1940s-1960s, which Balenciaga helped to introduce.

The dress and handbag shown in the images is not included with this lot.

Black wool long sleeve coat with rolled collar, built-in sleeves, front hip slit pockets, and single button closure at neckline.
Label: Balenciaga

Size Label: N/A

Style/Serial No. (under designer label): 5568H

Approximate Measurements:

Shoulders: 16"

Chest: 49"

Waist: 48"

Hips: 49"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 38.5"

Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 29"

Property from the Collection of Michelle Smith, Washington, D.C.

Condition:

The overall condition is very good structurally though there is a pulled thread on the front left panel at chest level and some minor wear around the sleeve cuff hems. The shoulder seams appear to have been altered and is noticeable only in the lining.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email us with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

Spring Fashion: Centuries of Style

Balenciaga Haute Couture Wool Coat, c.1960

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