Tuesday, 29 March 2011

TO THE BALL IN VALENTINO

A most exquisite ball gown, from one of the modern greats- Valentino. It dates to 1994, and the runway piece was worn by supermodel Nadja Auermann in the collection's show. Today, a similar boutique example would retail in the region of $10,000. The gown is signature to Valentino's classical work of the early 90's, when he repeatedly used this incredible duchesse silk satin fabric, and adorned his evening wear with single bows, whilst silhouettes were cut very fitted and flattered the waistline.

The dramatic shape is achieved through the skirt's construction, which is comprised of a straight line, floor length skirt, with the appearance of an overskirt that gently billows and cascades, whilst lengthening towards the back, ending in a trailing hemline. The bodice treatment accentuates the strapless heart neckline in a graceful manner.

Fashioned from rich, copper brown duchesse silk satin, which is smooth and of a substantial weight, it's one of the most luxurious materials used in couture & high fashion. The material is also backed with stiffened tulle, which is internal, and backed in the satin, and finally lined in fine silk. The internal tulle method is done to help maintain the structured shape. There is also an internal bustier series of boning and brassiere for support. It fastens with an internal waistband, and zipper to the lining and exterior. Fits a modern US 4 or small 6.






Friday, 11 March 2011

THE 18TH CENTURY

We are proud to present this exceptionally rare duo of grand, mid-18th century fashion. We have acquired this pair from England, however the collection it was acquired from also held many French items of the same period.

First is a regal pannier court robe of sack-back style with the original petticoat, dating to the 1760's. Both pieces are fashioned from very luxurious silk brocade, in a palette of smooth delicately vivid apple-green with pink and red accents. It's lavishly trimmed in ruched silk with silk thread dress edging. The set is lined, and fastens with front buttons. It showcases an absolute master dressmaker's fine skill, with the voluminous and romantic "sack-back" and attention to detail by elaborately trimming all edges in the fine ruched silk. Such an amount of regal fabric as used in this ensemble, would have reflected extreme wealth and privilege- mostly held by aristocrats.

Second is gentleman's taffeta frock coat and silk waistcoat, for display purposes we found the similar greens to pair beautifully together, regardless of their few years of age difference. The coat is of striped silk taffeta, whilst the waistcoat is of ivory fine silk and features traditional floral embroidery and silk covered buttons. Both pieces are presented in lovely condition.










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Or email info@eternityvintage.com and reference the item by brief description.
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