Breathtaking Pierre Balmain pale champagne pink silk and lace demi-couture gown dating back to his 1952 collection. Balmain created a very sculptural quality which was always allied with a ladylike essence. His garments have a body and a shape of their own. The bodice features a fully-boned strapless sweetheart neckline with scalloped edges and gathered "modesty" panel. I love the shelf-bust ruched cummerbund design. The nipped waist, slinky fitted skirt with flared mermaid hemline is so figure flattering. The attached gathered sash leads to a magnanimous cascading train. The train also has a small finger strap hidden beneath so that it can be carried when walking. Complete with matching leather backed, lace belt and chic cropped bolero jacket. It is extremely rare to find this particular Pierre Balmain Paris New York label. After traveling extensively and realizing the potential of an international market, Balmain opened his first New York City boutique in 1949. While extremely successful, the short lived boutique was to close in 1954. Balmain's glamorous garments were worn by the likes of Bridget Bardot, Katherine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich and I can surely see why.

Measurements
Bust: 34-35 inches
Waist: 26 inches
Hips: 38 inches
Length top to waist: 11 inches
Length waist to hem: 42 inches

This 1952 Pierre Balmain three-piece gown ensemble is in excellent wearable condition. The inside is immaculate, fully lined and complete with bodice boning. Perfectly working back handset metal zipper. Only signs of age are a few very faint spots to the lace that are completely lost when worn in addition to some general scuffs to the train from dragging. The belt has the most wear; the leather backing is cracked and the buckle has lost most of the lace overlay. An extremely rare museum quality gown and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value.