This stunning cocktail ensemble was made for the mother of the woman this was acquired from. She was a Dior Haute Couture client and this was made specifically for her in Paris and is a one of. It bears the Patron Original label and this label was used for two purposes - it would indicate a gown custom made for a client that was not always exactly to the version presented on the runway or was one entirely made for the individual altogether on a collaborative effort between client and designer or, in some cases, especially for earlier pieces it was the equivalent of a "sample" that was made by the atelier and sent to licensed ateliers that made dresses for their individual markets under the strict supervision and approval of the house. This was a way to get around the strict customs controls of earlier time periods, a practice began and initiated by the house of Dior. In either case pieces bearing this label are considered to be Haute Couture. 

It is beautifully made and has couture finishes. Made of layers of fine red silk chiffon the outfit has three pieces - a wrap skirt, a wrap tunic and a long sash. You can wear the tunic over or tucked into the skirt and of course can mix the pieces with other pieces. The skirt is absolutely wonderful. It is as light as air and wraps to close with hooks and snaps along the waist. Under the top layer of gold thread infused silk is a second layer of red silk. It is cut so that as it crosses in the front one layer comes up and creates a pretty effect down the front. The way its moves when you twirl is amazing! The tunic is caught up with hooks at the waist and plunges quite low if you wish it to. It has that same gold edged woven ribbon effect and is also as light as airy as the skirt. A long sash allows you to cinch it in at the waist or you could use it as a hair wrap. It's a touch larger sized but could be adjusted easier because of the simple closures if you are smaller. The tag is numbered. Excellent, appears unworn condition

Both pieces are fully lined in a red silk chiffon. The skirt closes with flat hook and eye & snaps as does the tunic. An inner waist stay sits inside the waist of the tunic. Each sleeve has a small zipper at its cuff.

Note that this will sit on a real girl much better then how it photoed. I don't like to over pin and it is larger then the mannequin it is one. On the right size girl this is wonderful. If you love the photos then buy knowing it is better in person!

Tunic
Sleeves: 16"
Shoulders: 23"
Bust: to 20" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: to 22" flat across from side seam to side seam with no closures
Bodice: 17" from top of bodice to waist, 16" from waist to bottom hem

Skirt
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 33" from waist to longest point of hem

Sash
20" x 80" with one end squared off an the other angled

Modern Sizing Equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# DD1730

Reference Photo: Christian Dior dress in L'Officiel, April 1978. Photo by Patrick Bertrand.

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