Pierre Balmain Haute Couture Dress, c1959

The silhouette of this evening dress is supported by a boned inner bodice and boned inner petticoat, which is then covered with multiple layers of net petticoats and ruffles. The layer of net is concentrated on the sides and back of the skirt, which creates the 18th century pannier-like silhouette.

Although this dress appears to follow the same silhouette of the dress featured on the model in the link below, it shows signs of alterations in the torso, center back waistline and hem.

A color image of this design being worn by a model can be found here: shorturl.at/rLUX5

Pink silk shantung and cream silk taffeta strapless evening dress with drape pleated bodice that gathers into four drapes at the back, a lime green sewn in belt waist, and full gathered and pleated skirt with uneven hemline and supported with numerous layers of net and hem braid, and center back zipper closure.
Label: Pierre Balmain / Paris
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No.: 101288

Approximate Measurements:
Chest: 36"
Waist: 27"
Hips: 40"
Length (side seam to hem): 52"

The overall condition is good with the following:

Structural Issues:
The center back zipper has a tear in the tape on the right side of the opening above the waist which prohibits the zipper from closing. There are several holes in the outer and innermost net petticoats.

Split/Separated Seams:
The left side taffeta petticoat has a piece of cotton tape that has detached on one side which helps it retain a flattened shape.

Fading/Color Change:
The front left of the bodice has some minor lighting running from the neckline to just under the bust. the interior bodice has been yellowed from wear and age.

Soiling/Spots:
The underarms are lightly soiled from wear.

Repairs/Alterations:
The skirt appears to have been altered at the waistline where it is attached to the bodice as evidenced by visible stitching holes along the back waist and the uneven distribution of the skirt pleats. The hemline appears to have been shortened on the outer skirt as well as the innermost net petticoat which has a 5" intake at the back hem. Holes in the petticoats show signs of repairs, ranging in size from 1" to 6", with some coming undone. Everything is sold 'As Is'. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please contact us directly with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.