1970s Chanel True Haute Couture Pleated Front Silk Top w Bow & French Cuffs designer-norman-hartnell An incredible cocktail dress by

An incredible cocktail dress by James Galanos that has wonderfully sculptural feel to it combined with dramatic volume

Behind the embroidery you can see how the fabric has been hand dyed and goes from a solid red to a washed pink to the cream silk at the bottom

It is made out of made of a nylon jersey - think a swimsuit like fabric - so is easy to travel with and virtually wrinkle free - it is the kind of piece you can throw into a suitcase and be able to wash and wear

The volume is perfectly balanced by the bareness of the shoulders and despite its over the top feel it somehow manages to stay to right side of the line for chic

1970s Chanel True Haute Couture Pleated Front Silk Top w Bow & French Cuffs designer-norman-hartnell An incredible cocktail dress byThis beautiful silk top was made by hand at the Chanel atelier. It is a true numbered Haute Couture. This piece comes directly from the daughter of the original Haute Couture client who was buying from Chanel in the early to mid 1970s. It is a remarkable example of her work during this time period. The top is done in a classic Chanel cut and silhouette. It is entirely done by hand and the silk is light and easy feeling. It is as finely tailored and