A Black Silk Cocktail Dress By Christian Dior Hc - Fuseau Line Autumn Winter 1957-1958

Autumn/Winter 1957-1958 Collection, Paris. Rare black fluted satin cocktail dress from Monsieur Christian Dior's last collection before his death on October 23, 1957. This model, numbered 90999, is faithful to the master's Fuseau line, which specifies shorter, sheath-shaped skirts and long bodices with plunging, bell-shaped necklines. This dress foreshadows the style of Yves Mathieu Saint Laurent, who would succeed Christian Dior. Here, the inner bodice is long, made of rigid, boned tulle, fastened at the back, and features garters. The cut is striking, with three-quarter sleeves, a Peter Pan neckline with lapels, a large matching bow at the waist, and a skirt constructed with wide inverted pleats. The petticoat is impressive and perfectly complements the bell shape, with four petticoats: three of black tulle edged with horsehair and the last of black taffeta sheath. The fluted satin is fully lined with black organza for added structure. It fastens with a zipper in the back. The label, sewn into the boned bodice, reads Autumn/Winter 1957 Christian Dior Paris, with the printed number 90999. There is a poorly executed repair under the right arm (approximately 1 cm, see last photo), easily repairable by a professional workshop, and a tiny unsewn seam under the left armpit; these are the only flaws to note. The fabrics remain very durable. Excellent overall condition in terms of color and preservation. Dimensions: Equivalent to French size 38. Waist 72 cm, bust 90 cm, length 113 cm, shoulders 40 cm, sleeves 28 cm, skirt circumference approximately 360 cm. Similar model in terms of cut: "Louvecienne" model, Christian Dior Heritage, Paris. Quote from Christian Dior: "Yves Saint Laurent is young, but he has immense talent. In my latest collection, I estimate that out of 180 designs, 34 are his creation. I think the time has come to reveal this to the press. My prestige will not suffer." Christian Dior to Jacques Rouet, July 1957