In 1981 Haslton was still in full control of his brand. He had not yet signed the international licensing agreements (that was to happen in 1983) that would be the beginning of his downfall. In fact, at this point in the Halston history, he was at the top of his game and anyone who was anybody was wearing the Halston label. His prices were sky high and the work put into the pieces was impeccable.

The fabric for his beaded and sequin pieces were being made in India. Halston personally chose the fabrics and materials that were used for each piece of his main line collections. The 1981 collection was especially intricate and the majority of the runway garments were heavily beaded and/or sequinned. This jacket is gorgeous. It is made out of a cut work silk organza done in silver. The pattern is held together by looped stitching that run between the pieces and leave a hint of skin peeking through where there is an open space. Over this, and following the design, is an edging of silver glass tube beads and miniature pearls. These have all been hand applied and individually placed to give the jacket a swirling organic feel. In the book Halston, published by Phiadon, a similar piece in red is shown on Katherine Graham, the American publisher who led the Washington Post for more then two decades. Also from that book is a photo of Halston with models from the 1981 show and you can see the girl in the gold wearing a similar piece, belted with a sash, and worn over a skirt. That same book also had the orignal sketch of the piece too. Excellent condition.

The body of the jacket is fully lined in a grey silk chiffon and it closes at the front with hook and eye. All the work is done by hand. Small interior repair on one sleeve

Sleeves: 21.5" approx.
Shoulders: no defined seam
Bust: approx 19" flat across but no true side seams due to the cut of the arm
Waist: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 22" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# S733

Reference Photos: (1) Spring 1981 Halston Illustration by Michelle Dowgin. (2) Halston with models, December 7 1981, photo Ron Galella. 

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.