This jacket is extraordinary. We have dated it to the Fall 1959 Haute Couture collection based on the similarity in the buttons used on it to another Balenciaga suit that is held in The Metropolitan Museum's permanent archives. Cristobal Balenciaga was known for his fine tailoring and sculptural approach to design. Christian Dior himself declared Balenciaga as 'the Master of us all'. Balenciaga's impact on fashion cannot be underestimated. He passed away in 1968 so any time I acquire a piece that pre-dates his death I am especially thrilled to have it in the shop. 

This jacket is a little work of art. it is made out of a black wool that has an almost rough feeling texture to it on the exterior. The inside of the jacket is lined in a fine black silk that feels like heaven once on. It is cut with a nod to simplicity that hides exquisite and precise tailoring. Each sleeve ends above the wrist. They are cut on a slight curve with minimal seaming in the proper tailoring manner. The shoulders are slightly sloped for a feminine feel. The collar is notched and neat to frame the neck. It is cut with a slight nod to a box shape but with curving vertical seams that bring the waist in slightly. It is cropped to the top of the hip and I love the way the front is notched upwards where it closes at the front. This would give you just a tiny peek of what you are wearing under it. The last perfect detail are the two elaborate buttons that sit at the front. Each is quite large and are covered in a jet black beads. The beads are set on their ends and have slight movement when you move. It is like wearing two pieces of fine jewelry. It is exquisite. Excellent condition. 

Fully lined an a fine black silk and buttons to close at the front. All the buttons holes are properly tailored to couture standards. Made to Haute Couture standards with a tremendous amount of detail put into the construction of it. It looks to have been worn very little if at all other then the slight wear on the actual tag. It has its proper haute couture numbered tape under the tag. 

Sleeves: 17.5"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bottom hem: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 19" from top of neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# S971

Reference Photo: c.1959-60 Balenciaga Ensemble, MET Collection Online.

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