Description
Model History:
In the 1980s and 1990s, Christian Lacroix imposed a flamboyant aesthetic blending art history, baroque opulence and fine textile craftsmanship. His evening suits, often conceived as one-offs or from limited collections, fuse the codes of the formal suit and luxury ready-to-wear. This ensemble, with its abundant embroidery and integrated vest, illustrates the designer’s vision of theatricality, layering and attention to detail. It reflects an era when fashion dared to stage, while asserting the power of expression through clothing.
Exterior Details:
The long jacket features a brocade fabric richly decorated with vegetal motifs and baroque scrolls, in a palette dominated by deep red, shimmering gold and graphic black. It measures 77 cm in length, with 38 cm shoulders, 62 cm sleeves, a 45 cm bust, a 37 cm cinched waist and a 52 cm flared bottom. The cuffs are highlighted by a structured lapel with jewel button. The integrated vest, in the same fabric, creates a layering effect without extra volume. The 56 cm long straight skirt has a 35 cm waist, 47 cm hips and 48 cm hem. It is belted and probably zipped at the back or side.
Interior Details:
The garment is lined with flowing black silk, visible in both jacket and skirt. The lining contributes to the garment’s comfort while preserving the rigid structure of the outer fabric. The assembly of the integrated vest is perfectly executed, making the whole visually coherent while complicating the pattern-making. The Christian Lacroix Paris label is present and well preserved, as is the composition label mentioning an alliance of viscose, polyester, silk and acrylic for the outer fabric, and 100% acetate for the lining.
Product Condition:
All in very good condition. The fabric retains its shine and hold, with no snags or tears. Jewel buttons are all present and in excellent condition. The lining is intact, with no visible wear or discoloration. The seams are solid, the finishing impeccable, and the pieces have clearly been carefully preserved, with no signs of noticeable alteration despite their age.
Care instructions:
Due to the mixed composition and richness of the brocade fabric, dry-cleaning by a specialist is imperative. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or moisture. Store the jacket on a wide hanger to preserve the structure of the shoulders, and keep the skirt flat or on a hanger with lined clips to avoid marking the fabric. A textile cover is recommended to protect the garment from dust.
Why to choose this product :
This Christian Lacroix evening suit is an exceptional piece both in its construction and aesthetics. It condenses the designer’s baroque and theatrical spirit into a rare and iconic luxury ready-to-wear ensemble. Its masterful cut, rich fabric, integrated vest detail and jeweled buttons make it a collector’s item, ideal for lovers of vintage haute couture. Perfect for a special occasion or to enrich a heritage wardrobe, this ensemble combines expertise, originality and stylistic heritage.
