This early 1950s Balenciaga-adaptation skirt suit by Dan Millstein in fine, soft, wool flannel is a gorgeous shade of heather blue, with navy blue braid trim. Dan Millstein produced adaptations (authorized copies, in this case, for the US market) of Balenciaga designs in the 1950s, and this is a lovely example. The short, fitted jacket has a small peplum with padding and interfacing at the hips to create a perfectly curved silhouette below the cinched-in waist. The collar and hip pockets are both trimmed with rows of navy braid, as are the outer edges of the wool-covered jacket buttons. The split sleeve hems are trimmed with tiny, matching buttons. The jacket has medium-sized, squared shoulder pads, and a rayon crepe lining, which is slightly faded, and has a bit of discoloration at the underarms (not seen when worn/no odors present). The slim pencil skirt has a kick pleat at the back hem, and fastens at the left side with a metal zipper and a button at the waistband. It is unlined. Other than the jacket lining fading, the only other issue to note about the suit is a tiny scuff or flaw in the surface of the wool fabric at the right side of the front waist (see close-up photo). This is quite unlikely to be noticed when the suit is worn. This Balenciaga-designed, 1950s skirt suit is in very good condition. Its hourglass shape, lovely color, and fine materials and details make this a truly special piece of mid-century clothing. It reminds us of the type of 1950s suit that might have been worn by Grace Kelly, or Marilyn Monroe, fabulously feminine!

Size: XS

JACKET

Bust: 36" flat, to fit approx. 34"

Length: 21. 5" from shoulder to hem in front; 21. 75" from back of neck to hem

Underarm to waist length: 7. 5"

Sleeve length: 23"

Shoulder to shoulder: 13. 75"

SKIRT

Waist: 24. 5" flat, to fit approx. 23. 5" (with room to move button easily, to gain up to 1")

Hip: 34. 5" flat, to fit approx. 32" maximum

Length: 31"

LABEL: Dan Millstein Balenciaga Paris Import (authorized copy)