To kick off the countdown of over-the-top luxury items up for bid at the Art Ball benefiting the Dallas Museum of Art is a true work of art for the couture lovers.
Balenciaga Cape* (Value $27,000)
Balenciaga cape**
The legendary Cristóbal Balenciaga was the role model for countless 20th century couture designers. Christian Dior once declared Cristóbal to be “the master of us all.” His lines were dramatic resulting in the creation of the balloon skirt, tunic dresses that evolved into the chemise dress and “what is considered to his most important contribution to the world of fashion: a new silhouette for women” in the 1950’s. By the 60’s he was exploring the use of heavier fabrics, intricate embroidery and bold materials. While his clients ranged from the Duchess of Windsor, Bunny Mellon, and Marella Agnelli to Jackie Kennedy, his protégés included Andre Courreges, Emanuel Ungaro and Hubert de Givenchy. According to Vogue, “He always insisted that only women of strong character would wear Balenciaga: One such intense and devoted client was the eminent stylist Countess Mona Bismarck; when the designer retired in 1968, it was said she mourned by cloistering herself in her room for three days.”
Hearkening back to his early days as a young designer, the Spanish-born designer presented a spectacular evening mantelet in the winter of 1964. To celebrate this legendary coat, the House of Balenciaga has meticulously researched the original fabrics and the design and incorporated today’s manufacturing techniques. Ah, but they’ve added materials that the master himself would have relished. The results? A tulle base that is knit with chenille — a small chenille knot to the tulle and a larger chenille with metallic yarn inside. Throughout the jacket are small groups of iridescent sequins hand-embroidered together. The collar, sleeves and edges of the jacket have faceted bead details.
Get online or prepare to wave your paddle when the bidding starts for this true couture treasure. Even Countess Bismarck would have left her room to get this darling.
* Courtesy of Balenciaga ** Photo provided by the Dallas Museum of Art