Carolina Herrera Black embroidered Lace Silk Silk Evening Dress, 1990s

Before her start as a designer in the early 1980s, Venezuelan-born Carolina Herrera could be described as a trend setter of her time. Inspired by couture designers such as Balenciaga, Herrera developed her own style that appealed to the sophisticated feminine woman. Her affluent designs and styles have graced the likes of many a socialite and first ladies such as Jackie Kennedy and Nancy Reagan.

From the early 1990s, this evening gown is done in a detailed black embroidered lace with a dusty purple brown silk-chiffon overlay. The delicate mesh lace features a floral motif that floats across the dress accentuating the shoulders, back and arms with a modest long sleeve. The overlay and nude underlining of this dress is done in a high neck that gracefully cuts down to centre back waist creating a flattering and sexy element to this dress.

With a rather basic silhouette, this dress beautifully cinches in at the waist, and creates the illusion of height. A timeless, elegant evening piece, this dress is a versatile special occasion gown (with the right undergarments, this dress could even be worn backwards as a different style) that could excellently coordinate with a pair of Gucci boots found in a separate listing!

Size: 12 US

Measurements:

Shoulders: 17 inches

Sleeves: 26 inches

Bust: 40 inches

Waist: 38 inches

Hips: 40 inches

Length: 58 inches

The interior of the dress is cleanly finished with French seams. Closing in the back with hand-set snaps and a concealed zip below the waist, ties secure the overlay at the back waist and back neck. In excellent condition, this dress has been professionally eco 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.