Two Pierre Cardin Dresses From Ebony Fashion Fair, One Worn By Iman, 1970-1984

Both of these haute couture dresses were purchased by Eunice Walker Johnson of Johnson Publishing Company and worn in the Ebony Fashion Fair. The red dress was worn by Iman for the Ebony Fashion Fair marketing materials in 1983-84.

THE FIRST
Haute Couture off-white and silver thread lace and net wedding dress with very long, wide, and flouced train. The hem of the dress and the neckline are finished with an extra wide peplums, which are support by a double layer of wide horsehair. The center back of the dress and the sleeve hems close with a zipper.
Label: Pierre Cardin Paris

Approximate Flat Measurements Across Front:
Chest: 14.5"
Waist: 13"
Shoulders: 15"
Hips: 17"
Length (underarm to hem): 62"
Sleeve (shoulder to cuff): 21"

THE SECOND
Haute couture strapless red silk dress embroidered with red faceted stones and beads. The dress is paird with a long pleated silk taffeta cape that closes at the neck with self fabric ties.
Label: Unlabeled, attributed to Pierre Cardin

DRESS
Approximate Flat Measurements Across Front:
Chest: 16"
Waist: 15"
Hips: 19"
Length (underarm to hem): 51"

CAPE
Approximate Flat Measurements:
Length (Center back): 60"

This lot is located in Chicago.

Property From the Ebony Fashion Fair Archive

Condition:

THE FIRST
The overall condition is poor as the dress was clearly worn a lot with many popped seams and past repairs. The white lace has become yellowed and soiled throughout from wear. The long train shows signs of wear from snagging, long popped seams (especially in the horsehair underlayer), and soiling. Separation at the waist seam on the right back side and a separation in the center back seams around the zipper. Four inches on stitches on each elbow have come undone. Lipstick spot on left peplum at neck. Discoloration and wear at center back train where the train is bustled.

THE SECOND
The overall condition is poor with multiple condition issues on the cape and dress resulting from repeated wear. The embroidery on the dress is loose around the top and back, and the center back zipper is loose in areas. Separated lining at center back left and loose stitches at center back closure. Cape is heavily worn with numerous splits in the material and seaming. Neckline appears to have been remade.

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.

Spring Fashion & Accessories

Two Pierre Cardin Dresses From Ebony Fashion Fair, One Worn By Iman, 1970-1984

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup