Couture is, without a doubt, such a mesmerizing thing! This dress is a testament to the fine Parisian couture, which has faded away through the recent years, making vintage examples highly prized and true examples. The phenomenal cut & hand-construction were only a small portion of what one would expect in a couture garment, especially from one of the most renowned couture houses of the era! Gilbert de Givenchy was one for a structural cut, quite apparent in many of his early creations, i.e. the little black dress, made famous by Audrey Hepburn, he was also famed for his 'Sabrina' gown worn in the film Sabrina of 1954 by Hepburn, also. One can definitely detect the presence of a strong cut and sculptural shape in this original example. On a recent note, one of Givenchy's film dresses worn by Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's, reached a sale price of a massive £410,000, last winter at Christie's of London. The film actress Natalie Portman, also posed for the cover of Harper's Bazaar in the fall whilst wearing the famous dress before it went up for sale that year (see below images). Today, if a client were to commission a couture house for such a garment as this, the price would range anywhere from £12-15K.

Fashioned from black silk velvet, with black silk bands. Featuring a gathered side to the skirt, in which the material has been delicately raised to the waistline. With fitted, gathered sleeves at the cuffs. Fully lined in luxurious black silk. Fastens at the side with an exterior and interior zipper, as well as some hook and eye fastenings. Labelled Givenchy / Made in France, also with the numbered couture tape label beneath, which reads 72023.

Measurements: Bust 34", Waist 28", Hips 37", Length 39-1/2." The condition is Very Good- some small areas of bruising to the velvet, and a very small seam seperation near the fastenings, measuring only about 1/4" in length, not visible. All reflected in the price, though a fully wearable dress.