This stunning suit is a proper, numbered Haute Couture piece designed by Pierre Balmain. It would have been made by hand in the Paris atelier for the Spring 1960 collection. When researching this piece we found similar suits from that collection and I have included the reference photos here. It is cut with the volume and curves that defined the era. It is a wonderful example of the work Balmain was doing in this time period and why they had such an influence in establishing the direction of design during this era.

The lines of the suit are very simple. There is the very minimal amount of seaming done to achieve the shape that you see. The suit is made from a deep blue fabric that in person has a slightly brighter feel then how it photoed and is even prettier. The fabric itself is incredible. It is a mix of a fine wool and silk and this combination gives it enough weight to hold the line and cut but without it feeling bulky or too heavy for a modern wear. It has a cross thatch texture running through it that gives the suit a little extra depth. The suit has a beautiful sculptural feel with an exaggerated and dramatic swing to the back of the jacket. When you see it from the front it falls in a more box cut shape with just the suggestion of shape through the waist. From the sides and back it shows this beautiful volume that is created through a modified swing cut that is gorgeous. The back swings out from the shoulders in a sweep of fabric. At the same time, when I say volume it is not overwhelming or forced. It has a refined feel to it that is charming to see. The seam that runs up the centre splits open about midway down and is kept in place with two large buttons. I love that this seam remains open from under the buttons to created a vent. This would have felt very risqué for this time period. Then to go with this lovely little jacket is a neat and simple cut skirt that perfectly balances out the jacket. Both pieces are beautifully made to couture standards. Excellent condition with a small note below

Both pieces are fully lined in a navy silk. The lining in the skirt is a soft, heavy weight silk satin and the lining in the jacket a more structured silk taffeta. The jacket closes with buttons down the front and has two decorative buttons at the back. The skirt closes with a fine, back metal zipper and flat hook & eye on the waist band. Completely hand finished. Has the proper numbered couture tape behind the main label. The buttons show chips along their edges.  Please see the last photos for examples. This would be easy to touch up with a matching paint. 

Jacket
Sleeves: 17.5"
Shoulders: 16.5" across
Bust: to 21" flat across the back from seam to seam
Waist: to 20" flat across the back from seam to seam
Length: 22" from neck to hem

Skirt
Waist: 15.5" flat across the back from seam to seam
Hips: 21" flat across the back from seam to seam
Length: 24" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing equivalent: MED-LRG

Item# DD1089

Reference Photos: (1) Pierre Balmain in L'Officiel, 1960.  /  (2) Pierre Balmain in Vogue, March 1960.

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