The Nina Ricci brand was founded in 1932, at 20 Rue de Capucines in Paris and quickly became one of the top couture ateliers in the world. This dress is from the main Nina Ricci line and it is made to level that I would consider to be demi-couture. It dates to the Fall 2006 collection and its twin walked the runway on model Jeisa Chiminazzo. Designer Lars Nilsson was the head of the atelier at the time and he had been there since 2003. His take over of the label was met with rave reviews and he was asked to reinvigorate the then floundering label. He remained there until 2006 so this dates to mid-way of his tenure. In the review of the collection that season by Vogue, they were harsh of the sportswear looks presented but raved about the evening looks saying; 'What his soigné fans love him for is his easy way with a dress. Several of the versions he showed today featured an artsy, swirling print, while the others came in those multicolored layers of organza, chiffon, or silk gauze. His facility with such concoctions makes spring a natural for Nilsson.''

This was a standout piece from the show and it is gorgeous and even better in person. The dress is a fantastical confection of black netted tiers that run from the top of the dress to the hem. The upper shoulders and bodice are a single layer of the netting and this curves over the shoulders and across the upper back to give you a glimpse of the skin underneath. Over the bodice it is cut into a modified sweetheart neckline that is caught up in a long loose and easy tie at the center for added detail. Under that the dress skims over you to the floor and each layer of the netting lies over the one beneath it. These tiers expand out in width as they progress down the body gently widening out as the dress nears the hem. This cut is incredibly flattering as the netting moves with you for a sensual feel but it hides all and every flaw. To give the dress the high glamour that it has, each edge of every layer has a wide band of beadwork that circles all the way around you. These bands are collectively made up of thousands of tiny tube beads hand sewn into place and following the edges of the netting. The gloss of the black beads against the black net is gorgeous. I love that the runway shots give you a bit of an idea of just how wonderful the dress is on. It is truly magical.  Excellent condition.

Fully lined in a black silk and closes with a hidden set zipper set the side. Tagged a US6 / FR 38. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. 

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 62" from shoulder to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3848

Reference Photos: Fall 2006 Nina Ricci Runway Collection. Look 34. Model: Jeisa Chiminazzo.

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