The fabric used for the lower portion of this dress matches the Fall 2000 couture ruffled Chanel coat and both pieces are from the same client. That said, I do not believe that they were purchased as a formal set because the numbered tags on each do not fall in sequential order like they normally would if that was the case. However, if you look at the runway photo for that look, you can see the similarities to the piece that was shown underneath the ruffle coat on the runway. There is a similarity in the top portion of the dress to Look 34 and we believe that this was a custom made piece whose fabric was chosen to give the option of wearing with the coat. True Haute Couture pieces by Chanel are an extraordinary find as they are so very rare and hard to come by. It is a beautiful example of the work that Karl was doing for Chanel during this time period and how a couture client could work with Karl to get the look that best suited her and her lifestyle.

This is a beautiful and chic shifts that can easily be styled to work for day or as an evening peace. The skirt is made from a rich black silk and it is immaculately tailored. The cut is very simple. It falls from an easy cut waist and then skims over the hips and narrows in slightly to the hem. Panels of silk are set vertically to create the shape of the skirt and the tailoring is immaculate. I love the slash pockets that are set low on the hip. Attach to the skirt is a sleeveless top that is made from precisely spaced knife pleats all the way around. The fabric has a slightly open woven look and feels like it is a mix of linen and silk. This gives it a slight touch of transparency over the inner lining. The effect is lightness and a touch of volume but without it being too transparent to wear. A softer panel of the silk runs from the top of the waist band and appears to circle back and behind the neck and then comes down and loops in under the bottom of the band at the waist. I just is a little unexpected detail. That soft collar also hides a rather low plunge for a bit of sexiness. The back of the neck is gathered and closes with three hand made fabric covered buttons. The top buttons to close below that but the buttons are all hidden under a pleat so that the line does not appear broken in any way. Is a stunning piece. Excellent condition

The top is hand lined in the same fabric as the exterior and the skirt is hand lined in a black silk. It appears to have been worn very little if at all. Appropriate Haute Couture label and numbered tape present. It is completely made by hand.

Bust: to 18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: to 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19.2" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14" from neck to top band at the waist
Skirt: 25" from top band at the waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# DD4202

Reference Photos: Fall Chanel 2000 Couture Runway, Looks 20 & 34.

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