In 1987 Christian Lacroix opened his Couture atelier and became the toast of all things fashion. His poufed skirts were the rage and came to define the era. His signature style was that of dramatic excess and a flamboyant, over-the-top look that was immediately copied and lusted after world-wide. These first few years were the height of all things Lacroix and even though his brand eventually shuttered due to an over-indulgence in licensing and diffusion lines, these early pieces represent the best of his genius.

Here we have an extraordinary dress from his couture label that dates to late eighties. Here we see the quintessential Lacroix with the all the drama and extravagance that made the fashion press swoon. No matter how lovely this looks on the mannequin I cannot convey how it transforms on a real body and the endless details that are revealed when a real girl moves in this - like the black lace trim that edges the underskirt - when you sit or move this peeks out for a little unexpected sexiness. It is cut to push the bodice up and cinch in the waist. If Marie Antoinette wore a mini this is the dress she would have chosen. It is impeccably constructed inside and out and has a full built in inner foundation and built in multiple layered crinoline. The bodice is sculpted and is suspended by black silk grosgrain. Each strap ends in an dramatic little black bow. It is made from a cotton pique - an unusual choice for a couture piece and one that would have been extremely avant garde for the time period. I have seen versions of this with an attached sleeve but this one has removable sleeves - another touch of genius and each slides over the arm to sit at the shoulder in a dramatic pouf. It is fantastic. Excellent condition and appears unworn.

Fully line in a hand set silk through the boned bodice. The skirt is interlined in a silk organza and has an attached underskirt that hooks into place. The dress closes at the front with a hand set zipper. The inner skirt is made of a stiffened nylon net edged in horsehair and a trim of black lace along the bottom. Each sleeve has elastic so will fit a variety of sizes. Tagged a size 40 but of course check the measurements below

Bust: 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist at inner crinoline: 12.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: approx 16" from top of strap to highest point of waist seam
Skirt: 20.5" from highest point of waist seam to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML

Item# DD2460

Reference Photos: Spring 1988 Christian Lacroix Collection.

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