2001 Christian Dior by John Galliano Wine-Red Silk Snakeskin Zippers High Slit Bias-Cut Gown
ID: 0727263 Size: extra small - small Condition: excellent An incredibly chic and ultra rare Christian Dior wine red silk snakeskin-trimmed zipper bias-cut gown dating back to John Galliano's epic 2001 spring/summer collection. When John Galliano became Creative Director of Dior in 1996, he transformed the legendary French maison into the fashion world's most exhilarating runway spectacle. He blended historical references with fearless innovation, redefining modern couture and ready-to-wear alike. This sensational liquid silk bias-cut gown perfectly exemplifies his genius. The dress is unmistakably rooted in the season's vision, offering a more elevated interpretation of the collection's signatures. As Vogue famously summarized, "Destruction, reconstruction, punk, recycling, tiaras, sex, patchwork, saddles, logos…only Galliano could pull it off." The design distills that eclectic energy into an evening silhouette with an edge. Executed in a saturated wine-red silk, the fabric catches the light with a liquid sheen. Cut on the bias, it molds effortlessly to the body before falling into a dramatic floor-length that showcases the fluid drape Galliano so often favored. The neckline is nothing short of brilliant. Galliano uses genuine dyed snakeskin to encase a gold zipper, allowing one half to become a striking one-shoulder strap while the opposite half traces the entire upper edge of the bodice. The zipper continues seamlessly around the back where the shoulder strap is discreetly tacked to the interior. This exact zipper construction appears on runway looks 18 through 22, making it one of the defining signatures of the collection. Fully functional, the neckline can be zipped or unzipped to subtly alter the opening, while the signature gold logo 'D' pull provides an unmistakable Dior finishing touch. Galliano carried the same idea down the left side of the gown, where another snakeskin-trimmed zipper begins at the mid-thigh and extends all the way to the hem. Whether left nearly closed for understated chic or unzipped all the way to reveal a seductive flash of leg, the styling is entirely up to you. Galliano's signature side covered buttons, inspired by refined 1930s dressmaking, add the perfect romantic touch to balance the gown's attitude. This archival dress embodies everything collectors seek from Galliano-era Dior. The flawless bias-cut, rich wine-red liquid silk, signature covered buttons, and instantly recognizable logo zipper hardware combine into a design that is both unmistakably of its moment and endlessly wearable today. Measurements Marked a size 36 (varies due to bias-cut) Bust: 30-33 inches Waist: 23-26 inches Hips: best up to 36 inches Total Length: 63 inches This iconic 2001 Christian Dior by John Galliano bias-cut gown is in beautiful condition with no noticeable rips, stains or alterations. Garment closes with original side covered buttons. Original logo Dior zippers in wonderful condition. This special investment piece will continue to increase in value.