1950s Black Silk Evening Coat w Heavy Beading at the Hem, Cuffs & Waist designer-givenchy The base is a deep

The base is a deep blue and the off-white print that runs over the velvet gives it a wonderful contrast

An iconic and rare piece of fashion history

It is very long and I love the slits that run up each side of the dress

It falls to the floor in a sleek column but the wrap really allows you movement and the occasion flash of leg when you sit or stride

Helena Barbieri pieces are as rare as rare can be and I am blessed to have had some wonderful examples on the site and now this stunning dress & jacket set

1950s Black Silk Evening Coat w Heavy Beading at the Hem, Cuffs & Waist designer-givenchy The base is a deepThe construction on this coat is wonderful. It is hand made and the tailoring on it is really extraordinary. It's label tells us that is was a custom tailored piece that would have been specialty ordered out of the British Crown Colony of Hong Kong who were doing the best bead work & tailoring in the world during this time period. The choice of the black silk makes it very easy to wear for multiple occasions. It would have been considered a formal