Junya Watanabe Comme des Garcons Floral Gold Chain Cut Out Back Dress, 2008

Protégé of the notorious Rei Kawakubo, Junya Watanabe is known for offering similarly expressive and artistic works that push the boundaries of fashion and the avant-garde. Showcasing his hallmark studies in volume, layering, and textural mixtures, Watanabe’s Spring 2008 collection was light, cheerful, and upbeat while still carrying with it the usual gravity of his other work.

From that season’s runway, this gorgeous chain-trim gown is done in a Liberty print cotton that boasts a magical blend of ivory, light pink, brown, and light gold. The ruched high collar opens to an incredible cowl neckline, which is mirrored down the front of the heavily draped bodice.

The metal trim reaches around the back of the neck and over the shoulders at the front of the dress, creating short cap sleeves at the front and a short capelet at the back. The trim continues under the arms and along the sides and back of the bodice, framing the revealing cut out at the back of the dress.

Size: Medium

Bust: 34 inches

Waist: 29 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 62 inches

The floor-length straight skirt offers a nice contrast to the oversized ruching of the bodice, creating a regal effect that is further enhanced by the gold chain trim and high collar. Though the waistline is obscured at the front by the draped bodice, the skirt falls from a beautiful center gather below the plunging cut-out bodice at the back, opening to a risqué, thigh-high slit which allows for greater ease of movement. A red-carpet worthy piece, this incredibly beautiful gown is the perfect choice for a wedding or special occasion.

This 2008 Junya Watanabe dress is unlined and closes at the back with a side hook at the chain. 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.