Christian Dior Haute Couture Ensemble, Autumn/Winter 1957

Worn by Dame Olivia de Havilland.

Ensemble consists of jacket, skirt and bodice of red wool. The main seams of the ensemble are sewn by machine while the inside, finishing stitches are done by hand. Jacket has a fold-down collar, long sleeves and a double-breasted button closure. The a-line skirt repeats the closing on the jacket. The bodice has a v-necline, cap sleeves and a silk panel, which extends below the waistline to tuck in. The bodoce closes down the center back with a zip.

Label: Christian Dior / Paris / Automne-Hiver 1957
Haute Couture Unique ID Number: 088699 (jacket), 088698 (bodice). Skirt is unlabelled.

Approximate Flat Measurements Across the Front:
JACKET

Bust: 18"

Waist: 16"

Hips: 16.5"
Shoulder: 15.5"
Sleeve (shoulder to hem): 18"

Length (from underarm): 9"

BODICE
Bust: 17"

Waist: 12"

Hips:17 "
Shoulder: 16"

Length (from underarm): 8"

SKIRT

Waist: 12"

Hips: 18.5"

Length (side waist to hem): 26"

Haute Couture and Hollywood Designs worn by Dame Olivia de Havilland

Condition:
Overall very good condition. The main red wool is in very good condition. The bodice shows some felting of the wool under each arm from wear. Many hooks and eyes at the waistline are loose. The red silk extending below the waistline has some splits where it attaches to the wool. The lining of the jacket has been repaired under each arm and has a 1" split in the fabric at the back hem The right skirt pocket flap shows a repair. Some of the snaps and hooks and eyes on the inside waistband (used to attach to the bodice) are loose or missing. The lining is starting to split at the waistband near the right front and back.

The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. As everything is sold 'as is', we suggest that you request a more detailed condition report and additional photo. This can be obtained via the INQUIRE button or by email at [email protected]. Condition is a matter of opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact.

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.

Michael Hall

Cataloguer, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312 280 1212

Beatrice Levine

Account Executive

[email protected]312 280 1212

Haute Couture & Luxury Fall Fashion (Online Only)

Christian Dior Haute Couture Ensemble, Autumn/Winter 1957

Worn by Dame Olivia de Havilland.

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