1946 Balenciaga Haute Couture Copper Satin Tailored Peplum Jacket and Skirt Suit

A breathtaking and extremely rare Balenciaga Haute-Couture copper silk satin sculpted cocktail suit from his 1946 fall-winter collection. Cristobal Balenciaga began his life's work in fashion at a very young age. It is fabled that the Marquesa de Casa Torres, who was so taken with his talent, sent him to Madrid for formal training in tailoring when he was just a teenager. Balenciaga's designs were more often than not, linear and streamlined. While Fath and Dior produced curvy confections know as "The New Look", Balenciaga created forms that hovered around the body in fluid lines. Balenciaga achieved what is considered to be his most important contribution to the world of fashion: a new silhouette for women. This rare two-piece custom made suit from 1946 is a perfect example of his genius. The fabric itself is a masterpiece; shimmering mid-weight copper silk satin that seems to have an almost glowing effect without being stiff or heavy. The construction is impeccable and has the type of seamed pattern work that one rarely sees today. The jacket has a dramatic wide collar, chic 3/4-length cuffed sleeves and gorgeous large fabric buttons in the same hue. I adore the nipped-waist peplum design which is beyond flattering! A matching cocktail skirt with flawless silhouette finishes off this ensemble with a perfect femme fatale vibe. A true collectible and definitive piece of couture fashion history.

Measurements
Jacket
Bust: 36-37 inches
Waist: up to 29 inches
Total Length: 25 inches
Shoulder to Shoulder: 14.75 inches
Skirt
Waist: 29 inches
Hips: 41 inches
Total Length: 29 inches

This 1946 Balenciaga Haute Couture two-piece suit is in excellent condition with no holes, stains or alternations. The ensemble is hand-finished and fully lined. Only sign of wear is a few scuff marks to the satin from age. A rare museum quality investment piece that will only go up in value.