1960s Documented Marc Bohan for Christian Dior Numbered Couture Check Skirt Suit

Christian Dior wouldn’t be the brand it is today without its namesake founder—the man who changed fashion with his New Look. But in the more than 70-year history of the Parisian atelier, it was Marc Bohan who helmed it the longest. He took over in 1961 after a young Yves Saint Laurent had come on board and shook it up by turning to London street style—not haute couture—for inspiration.

Bohan ushered in a return to sophistication, with a premiere collection that was, according to the New York Times’ Carrie Donovan, met with utter pandemonium: “The shouting, clapping, surging mob at the press showing caused chaos in the elegant salon. [Bohan] was kissed, mauled and congratulated.”

This timeless skirt suit designed by him in 1966 beautifully reflects his work at the legendary house. An impeccable two-piece ensemble is given a Mod twist in navy, red and ivory check wool. The boxy jacket features a front placket with five buttons, three of which close it at the bottom and two of which are purely decorative. The buttonholes are hand-finished and the sleeves are hand-set. A jewel neckline, rounded shoulders, bracelet sleeves and navy silk shantung lining complete the piece.

The knee-length pleated skirt is just as gorgeous, with a hand-set zipper and intricate lining, which comprises panels of ivory silk organza that are hand-sewn to the interior. Wear the vintage treasure together, or mix and match it with other looks.

Size estimate: S/M

Measurements:

Jacket:

Shoulders: 16 inches

Sleeves: 22 inches

Bust: 39 inches

Waist: 36 inches

Length: 22.5 inches

Skirt:

Waist: 26 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 21.5 inches

This vintage Christian Dior haute couture skirt suit from 1966 is in excellent condition. It is documented. It is tailored from navy, red and ivory check wool. The jacket has a boxy silhouette. The front placket has five buttons, three of which close it at the bottom and two of which are purely decorative. The buttonholes are hand-finished and the sleeves are hand-set.

A jewel neckline, rounded shoulders, bracelet sleeves and a navy silk shantung lining complete the coat. The knee-length pleated skirt has a hand-set zipper and intricate lining, which comprises panels of ivory silk organza that are hand-sews to the interior. The suit has been professionally dry-cleaned and pressed. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.