1998 Tom Ford for Gucci Runway Black Nude Illusion Layered Tulle Gown

ID: 1103251

Size: small

Condition: excellent

This ethereal and highly coveted creation from Tom Ford’s legendary fall/winter 1998 collection for the House of Gucci embodies the seductive minimalism that defined an era. When Ford took the helm at Gucci in 1994, he revitalized the brand’s image—transforming it from near bankruptcy into a global powerhouse of provocative glamour. For this collection, Ford cited actress Charlotte Rampling—whom he described as “one of the sexiest women alive”—as his muse, channeling her cool allure and quiet intensity into flowing silhouettes that moved away from the body, in contrast to the slinky bias-cut shapes of previous seasons.
Shown as Look 45 on the Milan runway, the gown was modeled by the gorgeous Bridget Hall. It features an inner layer of blush-toned silk crepe, veiled by an outer layer of the finest smoky black silk tulle—creating the illusion of bare skin beneath a sheer shadow. The gown’s bodice is delicately shaped with a plunging neckline and the thinnest of slip straps, allowing the fabric to drape effortlessly from the bust and cascade to the floor in airy pleats. The effect is both architectural and weightless, capturing light and movement with every step. From the back, the gown reveals a daringly open design that skims low across the shoulder blades, evoking the sensual restraint for which Ford became famous. This design was featured prominently in the Gucci campaign for Russian Vogue, December 1998, modeled by Hedvig Maria Maigre. A bridal version of the same gown was also immortalized by Helmut Newton for the 1998 June issue of American Vogue, underscoring its timeless appeal and versatility. Today, this piece stands as a rare and collectible example from Tom Ford’s transformative Gucci era—an exquisite combination of subtle provocation and poetic elegance. The archival gown represents not only one of the most iconic fashion moments of the 1990s but also a lasting testament to the power of Ford’s vision.