Two Balenciaga Haute Couture Items: One Day Dress, One Pleated Skirt, 1950s

The items in this lot were made for and worn by Elizabeth Parke Firestone (1897-1990). Born to a prominent Illinois family and wife of tire magnate Harvey Firestone, Elizabeth Parke Firestone cultivated a fashion sense so refined as to earn her recognition among the “Best Dressed Women in the World.” She travelled extensively, collaborating with the foremost European couturiers on made-to-order versions of runway pieces. A faithful couture client, she corresponded regularly with Dior, and Balenciaga kept a mannequin made to her measurements. Many of her fashions now reside in the collection of the Henry Ford Foundation.

This lot includes two pieces: one dress, one skirt.

THE FIRST
Blue silk blend day dress with half length sleeves, rolled pointed collar, gathered straight-fit skirt, and front hidden hook and eye closures.
Label: Balenciaga
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No.: N/A

Approximate Measurements:
DRESS
Shoulders: 13.5"
Chest: 33"
Waist: 25.5"
Hips: 36"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 40"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 22.25"

THE SECOND
Pale yellow silk blend gazar box pleat skirt with center back snap closures.
Label: Balenciaga
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No. (under main label): 64450

Approximate Measurements:
Waist: 23.5"
Hips: 40"
Length (side waist band to hem): 26.5"

Property from the Collection of a Midwest University

Condition:

THE FIRST
The overall condition is very good structurally with some very minor discoloration along the shoulders and back neckline. There is a small .25" worn area on the back right princess seam, not quite a hole.

THE SECOND
The overall condition is very good though there are some faint spots located on the right side seam and dark spots on the left side front near the hem line. There are some loose stitches on some of the interior organza pleat stays placed along the top of each pleat with some very minor worn holes in a couple.

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 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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Two Balenciaga Haute Couture Items: One Day Dress, One Pleated Skirt, 1950s

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