For the Chanel Spring 1985 collection Karl sent several versions of this dress down the runway. The closest to this one was worn by Jerry Hall, but I have included here all of the ones we found so you can get a great idea of how the dress is on the body. I love that there is even a shot of Karl with Ines! With so many version of the dress sent down the runway there is no doubt that this look was key to the collection that season. It is a gorgeous dress and a rare and early example of his work.

The dress is made from of a fine silk chiffon that is a deep ivory. The ivory has a touch of nude colour to it but it's very soft. The silk of the bodice has been gathered over it into tiny pleats that are set horizontally over it. These are extremely intricate and give the entire bodice a beautiful texture. The top edge at the front is peaked on both sides with an exaggerated angle that dips down to the center. The dress zips to close at the front but this is hidden by a series of silk covered buttons and loops. The sides of the waist angle down slightly on each side and the skirt flows out from under there. Two layers of bias cut silk chiffon flow over an inner silk lining. The skirt has tremendous movement when you move and the lightness of the silk allows it to float around you with the slightest bit of air. At the back the bodice dips on a curve to leave the upper back bare. Attached on one side of the front are two silk chiffon straps that curve up to tie behind the neck. Also attached there are two panels of silk chiffon. These are both tremendously wide and they gather in to that center point. They can be styled in several ways. You can cross them over each other at the front and float them over your shoulders in the way that Jerry Hall wore it to create a cape like effect that covers the arms and runs down the back. You can wear them more off the shoulder and have them just fall down the center of the back or you could wear them as a shoulder piece and tie it at the back which is pictured on the runway but that I did not style on the dress form. You can also wear them crossed and over the head. So many options! It is a beautiful example of his early work and an absolutely beautiful dress. This might even make an amazing wedding dress for the bride looking for a non-traditional choice or as an alternative dress in a more extended wedding celebration. And of course it could also be worn to any event. Excellent condition with a small note below

The dress is lined in a taupey nude silk and closes with a hidden zipper behind the silk covered buttons down the front of the dress. The inner corset is boned and the straps wrap around your neck and tie. It is tagged a vintage 44. I see a couple tiny pin size marks scattered across the upper back skirt. Please see the photo after the label shot. I see a tiny repair only the very edge of the hem and one on one of the panels along with a couple tiny darkened marks. These are extremely minor and mentioned for accuracy. Hand finishes throughout.

Bust: 17.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15" flat across from side seam to side seam
seam 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Bodice: 13" from top of bodice to waist
Skirt: 39" from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD4287

Reference Photos: (1-7) Spring 1985 Chanel Runway.  /  (8) Vanity Fair, March 1985. Photographed by Oliviero Toscani.

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