This magnificently ornate skirt was most likely designed by Gianni Versace and created by Italian ready-to-wear manufacturer Genny. Versace became the Creative Director at Genny in 1973 and remained there until the early 1990s. We have found a very similar, ornately beaded advertisement for a ‘Sergeant Pepper’ jacket by Genny which retailed for a staggering $4,900 with the advert dated February 02, 1989.

Known for his innovative, intricately detailed embellishment, here Gianni Versace has drawn on the same elaborate design influences he found fame for with his namesake brand. The beadwork is extremely weighty and is exceptionally implemented; set against inky black silk, swirling baroque shapes and complex geometric forms are created from a light-catching assortment of gold, black, ruby red and emerald green sequins and beads. With very high-quality materials used throughout, the skirt is fully lined in black mesh and so, despite its weight, it is a comfortable and easy wear. When worn, this skirt skims the curves of the wearer’s body and falls to knee-length, fastened at the left hip with two fabric-covered snap closures and a hidden tonal zip.

This piece is in excellent vintage condition with no flaws to the silk or beadwork. It still has the original label attached. The size label states that this is an Italian size 44, a UK size 12, but vintage sizes vary so please double-check our measurements below. The composition label states that this is 100% Silk with a lining of 100% Polyester. The fabric has no stretch. Our model (5ft 11in. / 180 cm) is a UK 8-10 or US 4-6 and this skirt fit her well with some room to spare on the waist.

MEASUREMENTS

WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)

HIP - 38 in. (97 cm)

LENGTH - 20.5 in. (52 cm)