Christian Dior Haute Couture Evening Dress, 1957

This dress, labeled automne/hiver 1957, was created within months of Christian Dior’s unexpected death in October 1957. The pale celadon fringed silk sheath closely resembles an example in the spring/summer 1957 ‘Ligne Libre’ collection, described as split sheaths and dubbed ‘robes de Chine.’

The twenty-five lots of Dior haute couture in this auction (Lots 46-70) represent the work of nearly every creative director at the House of Dior.

Grey silk satin dress with straight skirt and draped overdress with folds and bow secured at left front. Built-in boned inner-bodice with fourteen hook and eye closures and six snaps around the top of the dress.
Label: Christian Dior Paris, Automme-Hiver 1957
Size label: Not sized

Style/Serial No.: 89 other numbers are not legible

Approximate Measurements:

Chest: 24.5"

Waist: 33"

Hips: 36"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 45"

This lot is located in Chicago.

Condition:

The overall condition is good with spots throughout and discoloration at the top of the dress from perspiration. The dress has been altered and has puncture holes from previous stitching along the seamlines. The top of the dress has two areas where the fabric has been darted from a previous alteration. The bobbinet corset has discoloration throughout. The threads at the hook and eye closure have started to discolor. There is a four inch piece of fabric missing from the interior hem. The lining has loose threads at the hem. The fringe at the back of the dress has signs of wear.

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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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.

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Christian Dior Haute Couture Evening Dress, 1957

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