A stunning collection of haute couture garments that once belonged to a glamorous Parisian woman is now going up for auction at Christie’s, coinciding perfectly with the start of Haute Couture week in Paris. This mysterious owner was a known figure in the fashion world, with close ties to renowned French designers like Yves Saint Laurent, Hubert de Givenchy, and Karl Lagerfeld. The collection being sold includes a wide array of exquisite haute couture pieces, ranging from playful cocktail dresses and elegant suit ensembles to mesmerizing evening gowns.
The auction, which comprises 116 lots, offers a glimpse into the personal style and careful choices of the anonymous owner. Each piece was thoughtfully handpicked and actually worn, giving the collection an intimate feel that is emphasized by Christie’s auctioneer Camille de Foresta.
Among the standout items being auctioned off, the most sought-after piece is an enchanting purple velvet dress designed by Lagerfeld for Chanel’s 1988 winter collection. This masterpiece, inspired by Tudor fashion, is adorned with intricate gold thread and bead embroidery crafted by Lesage, the renowned French atelier. One distinct characteristic of Lagerfeld’s designs, the dress features a detachable satin collar. With an estimated value of 4,000 to 6,000 euros, it is expected to attract considerable attention from fashion enthusiasts and collectors.
The auction also features various creations by Yves Saint Laurent that reflect his fascination with Moroccan culture. Of note is a set consisting of a gold lame-encrusted tunic and matching pants. Additionally, a velvet bustier evening dress from Saint Laurent’s 1984-1985 haute couture collection will also be available for purchase. According to de Foresta, the anonymous owner held a deep admiration for Saint Laurent, seeing his designs as the epitome of comfort, femininity, and sensuality.
In addition to Lagerfeld and Saint Laurent, the collection includes pieces from Christian Lacroix, Gianfranco Ferre for Dior, and Valentino. Most of the couture pieces in the collection were acquired during the 1980s and 1990s, showcasing the owner’s impeccable taste and appreciation for fashion during that era.
The haute couture auction at Christie’s, which began on January 11th and will run until January 25th, has garnered interest from fashion and decorative art museums, as well as the fashion houses themselves, which are eager to enrich their archives. This auction provides an opportunity for these institutions to preserve and exhibit these significant pieces of fashion history.
As Haute Couture Fashion Week comes to a close on Thursday, it allows top designers to showcase their extravagant creations, which are typically made exclusively for private clients and not mass-produced for retail. This exclusive event offers a glimpse into the extraordinary world of haute couture and reveals the artistry and craftsmanship behind these unique garments.
With the allure of a glamorous Parisian’s personal wardrobe and the presence of esteemed designers embedded in every stitch, the Christie’s auction becomes an exceptional opportunity for fashion enthusiasts and collectors to own a piece of fashion history and indulge in the extraordinary creations of the haute couture world.
Useful Links:
1. Christie’s
2. Fashion History Museum
