Chloé Phoebe Philo Beaded Straps Plunge Silk Dress Runway Spring 2005

For the 2005 Chloé Spring collection, creative director Phoebe Philo designed a breezy yet beautiful array of silk skirts and dresses alongside Victorian military jackets, ruffled shirts, and tux pants. As Sarah Mower wrote for Vogue, “Her unerring instinct for everything that's great to wear right now—and how to put it all together—has hit a groove of loose, effortless loveliness. And her spring collection could only be described as possessing the ineffable quality of "It."

From that season, this gorgeous dress is a fine example of that effortless loveliness. Done in a pale chartreuse silk, the sleeveless dress begins with a plunging V neckline framed by two silver-beaded straps. The straps are threaded through the front of the bodice and emerge at the center front of the neckline in a twisted knot.

A deep plunge at the back of the dress mirrors the neckline at the front, with silver beadwork along each side extending the line of the straps to emphasize the V shape. At the center back of the bodice two silver-beaded silk cords are draped to follow the lines of the body, separating to curve alongside each hip and continue up the front of the bodice to meet at the center front of the bust, creating a glittering loop of beads.

Size: 2 US 34 FR

Measurements:

Bust: 32 inches

Waist: 24 inches

Hips: 34 inches

Length: 44 inches

Magnificent ruching at the neckline, sides of the bodice, and back of the dress contrast nicely with the fitted waist, adding a note of graceful femininity. The knee-length skirt falls from gentle gathers at each hip, bringing a delicate fullness to the otherwise fitted silhouette of the dress. At the hem, a wide panel of cream-colored silk adds a welcome and unexpected pop of color that feels youthful and exuberant. Bringing together a variety of sumptuous elements, this beautiful dress is an excellent choice for an evening soiree, gala, or special occasion.

A version of this dress was worn by Daria Werbowy on that season’s runway as look #39. This vintage Chloé dress is unlined and simply slips on over the head for easy wear. In very good condition, there are some indentations and markings on the silk at the hem. 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.