Diaghilev’s Ballet Russe Scheherazade Costume for Young Man. Designed by Leon Bakst, 1910. Image courtesy of Kerry Taylor Auctions.
It was difficult not to squeal with delight flipping through the virtual catalog. Aside from the beautiful curated offerings, photographs, and descriptions – the focus of the sale has a Russian spin. There are several costumes from Diaghilev’s Ballet Russe available. I have a big soft spot for the Ballet Russe, which was only intensified after my trip to the National Gallery this summer. (New to my site? You should check out my previous post,
Diaghilev and the Ballet Russe)
Ossie Clark/Celia Birtwell Printed Chiffon Evening Gown and Cape, c. 1976. Image courtesy of Kerry Taylor Auctions.
Costumes aside, there are some serious designers represented in the lot. From Worth to McQueen, you’ll be able to find something to pine over. I was delighted to see this Ossie Clark and Celia Birtwell evening gown with a cape. This power couple virtually created the fashion scene in England during the 1960s and 1970s. Celia designed textiles while Ossie made garments for famous clients including: the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Bianca Jagger.
Madame Gres Black Silk Jersey Evening Gown, c. 1935-1944. Image courtesy of Kerry Taylor Auctions.
There is a beautiful Madame Gres available. The Grecian draping is always perfection. In black, it’s timeless.
Madame Hayward Bridal Gown for Regina de Bittencourt, 1914. Image courtesy of Kerry Taylor Auctions.
The 1910s are represented with this gorgeous wedding dress. It belonged to Chilean heiress Regina de Bittencourt. The dress is accompanied by primary source articles, wedding photos, and an impressive provenance.
Ceil Chapman Mint Green Taffeta Evening Gown and Coat, c.1954-58. Image courtesy of Kerry Taylor Auctions.
I pegged this evening dress and coat as Dior, but read that it was Ceil Chapman. Chapman was an American fashion designer active in New York during the 1940s-1960s. (She definitely merits an upcoming post!)
Grace Kelly was photographed wearing a similar coat.
Junya Wantanabe for Comme des Garcons. Denim dress, 2001. Image courtesy of Kerry Taylor Auctions.
And my last favorite is this denim dress by Junya Wantanabe for Comme des Garcons. The spiraling panels of denim and seam-work are too beautiful for words. If I bought this, I’d never take it off!
See what else is available on the December 3rd auction via the virtual catalog.
