This magnificent Pierre Balmain 1960s Haute Couture silk linen bridal dress suit in ivory is of superb quality and in impeccable condition. Extolled for the sculptural quality that characterises his work, Balmain lovingly described dressmaking as "the architecture of movement", and was favoured by iconic figures Marlene Dietrich and Katharine Hepburn as well as famously Queen Sirikit of Thailand during her 1960 tour of the United States. This piece is nothing short of a perfect example. The opulent silk linen fabric is of considerable weight and therefore retains the line and dramatic shape of the garments effortlessly. Soft candlewick appliqué trim embellishes the gown throughout with decadent floral textures and are used to define the neckline and hem. The dress is sleeveless with wide off shoulder straps either side of a graceful boat neckline. There is no seam at the waistline, and the dress is expertly comprised of 4 vertical panels which run the length of the piece with an exquisite cut to the curve of the waist and hip and pristine tailoring over the bust to create a truly fairytale aesthetic. There is a concealed zip fastening at the reverse positioned off centre to the wearer's left. The overcoat is designed to be worn open with a vertical cascade from the high collar to the floor to show stopping effect. The strong central hem at the front of the piece is densely trimmed for the full length of the piece and also on the cuffs on each of the 3 quarter length sleeves, leaving the reverse unembellished to showcase the streamlined tailored panels. This exceptional piece is fully lined in ivory silk, and reinforced beautifully on the hems and cuffs. A sensational choice bridal wear, would fit up to US size 4, UK size 8.

MEASUREMENTS:
DRESS:
LENGTH - 55.8" (142 cms)
BUST - 34" (86.3 cms)
WAIST - 27.5" (69.8 cms)
HIP - 36" (91.5 cms)

OVERCOAT:
LENGTH - 59.5" (151 cms)
BUST - 34"(86.3 cms)
WAIST - 34"(86.3 cms)
HIP - 38" (96.5 cms)