1998 John Galliano ‘Haute Bohème’ Collection Ivory Knit Ruffle Sleeve Jacket & Bias-Cut Skirt Set w/Tags

ID: 0817261 Size: small Condition: very good An instantly recognizable and totally iconic John Galliano ivory knit ruffle-sleeve jacket & matching bias-cut skirt from his beloved Spring/Summer 1998 collection. One of fashion’s greatest visionaries, Galliano built his career by merging historical references with masterful tailoring and an irreverent sense of fantasy, creating clothes that felt romantic, provocative, and entirely unique. Titled ‘Haute Bohème’, the Spring/Summer 1998 show helped establish the immersive theatricality that would become synonymous with his runways. Staged at the historic Château de Vincennes during Paris Fashion Week, the setting was transformed into a fantastical salon filled with antique furniture, tapestries, and even a four-poster bed, where some guests were actually seated. Rather than simply walking past the audience, the models treated the space like their own private party, directly interacting with attendees. A nearly identical version of this jacket appeared as Look 5, paired with a knit dress and one of the collection’s oversized hats. The fitted bodice is fashioned from a richly textured ivory cotton weave, nipping in at the waist before slightly flaring over the hips. Rounded lapels and the shapely cut offer a playful nod to 1940s 'Old Hollywood' feminine tailoring. Three extraordinary buttons close the front, each inset with genuine pressed flowers beneath resin. The short sleeves consist entirely of densely layered silk-knit ruffles, creating wonderful volume. The back reveals a partially sheer panel worked in an intricate open pattern. Horizontal bands encircle the waist before transitioning into more delicate pointelle-like detailing above and below, giving you glimpses of skin while emphasizing the narrowest part of the figure. This brings the archival set full circle to Look 5, cleverly incorporating the same fabric used for the dress worn beneath the runway jacket. The coordinating viscose-crepe skirt is cut on the bias, with Art Deco-esque seamwork sweeping diagonally across the lower portion before opening into a fluted hem that moves so beautifully as you walk. Galliano’s signature side covered buttons run along the side, adding yet another nod to vintage dressmaking. Perhaps most exciting of all, the ensemble still retains its original unworn tags from almost 30 years ago! With the Metropolitan Museum of Art announcing John Galliano: Horizons for 2027, interest in his 1990s work will only continue to grow, making now the perfect time to acquire an important piece from this era. We also cannot imagine a more chic alternative bridal look—wear the ensemble down the aisle, for your rehearsal dinner, courthouse, reception, or eve morning-after brunch. A truly exceptional piece of Galliano history. Measurements Jacket marked a size 38 Bust: 34-35 inches Waist: 26 inches Total Length: 20 inches Matching Skirt marked a size 38 Waist: 26 inches Hips: 34-38 inches Total Length: 37 inches This archival 1998 spring/summer John Galliano jacket and matching bias-cut skirt ensemble is in lovely unworn condition with no holes, rips or alterations. The skirt closes with a set of side buttons. Only sign of age is a very faint watermark along the jacket which is very hard to see when worn. Due to the special deadstock unworn with tags nature of the piece and because it is minor, we have not had it cleaned. Please message for detailed pictures. Highly wearable and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value.