Christian LaCroix launched his Haute Couture house in 1987 and was an instant success on the worldwide stage. A ready-to-wear line soon followed along with perfumes and menswear. His collections are always exotic, lavish affairs and his designs seemed to span the decades with their eccentric glamour pulled from multiple sources of inspiration. This dress is from the Spring 2008 collection and is from one of his last collections since the atelier closed the following year. On the runway it was shown as a more cocktail length but I love the ease and simplicity of this full length version.

I actually own the twin of this dress and have had it in my personal archives for many years. I was so happy to have my client send its twin to me so that I have another one for someone else to love it as much as I love mine. I love this dress and how it showcases LaCroix's love of print. The bodice has an almost halter feel to it created by the straps that extend down from the shoulders and into a deep curve at the front that scoops down and under the bust. At the back it is scooped even lower to leave your back bare. The fabric of the bodice wraps around you and is more fitted. Nestled within the scoop at the front there is a dense application of beadwork, crystals and embroidery. This adds a subtle yet beautiful touch of glamour to the dress. The waist is cut generously but there is a matching tie belt in the same fabric that you can use to cinch it in as much as you wish. The tie is long so you can create a gorgeous bow like I have, wrap it around yourself for a more clean and simple look, or simply let it trail down the skirt. Under the waist the skirt falls in a sweeping cut that widens out as it nears the hem. The skirt is made up of yards and yards of silk organza and he has set the hem so that it has a bit of a pouf to it that gives it even more volume and movement. The back is cut slightly longer then the front and it has a wonderful lightness to it. And it has pockets. The entire dress weighs very little because of the fabric choice and this adds to the high fantasy feel that it has. I love the exuberant and joyful print that runs over the organza. It is bright and happy and feels oh so very Lacroix. It is magnificent. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Excellent condition

Fully lined in an ivory silk and closes with a hidden set side zipper. Tagged a size 40. It appears to have been worn very little if at all.

Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 15" from top of bodice to top seam at the waist
Skirt: 41" from top seam at the waist to front hem, 47" to the back hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD3791

Reference Photos: Spring 2008 Christian Lacroix Runway Collection, Look 45.

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