Fendi Karl Lagerfeld S/S 2008 Runway Black Cut Out Suede Dress Cape Skirt Set

Helmed by the notorious Karl Lagerfeld, Fendi began as a luxury fur and leather goods label and overtime transitioned to be widely successful in the ready-to-wear market. The Spring 2008 collection was highly contemporary featuring curvilinear lines and fluidly draped silhouettes in stark neutrals.

This three-piece dress set captures the second half of the collection being comprised of an appliquéd tulle cape, a matching mini-dress and a white habotai underskirt. Made from a fine crème silk tulle, the capelet features several black lines of appliqué that create a butterfly-like display as it swings around the arms and shoulders. At the neckline, it can be secured by one button and openly falls to the waistline in the front and rises to about bust point in the back allowing for ease of motion when worn.

The mini dress is incredibly made from the same crème silk tulle with the black suede strips appliquéd. The strips graduate from narrow at the straight neckline to denser as the pattern culminates at the waist. From the waist, this pattern is replicated as the number of rings increases as they approach the skirt’s undulating hem at just above knee level. Practically, the dress has two suede straps and closes with a side zip.

Lastly, the underskirt falls to the low calf so it can be seen from underneath the dress. Done in an ivory habotai, the white softens the tone of the ensemble. It is lined with three layers of tulle that support the silhouette while slightly modifying the visual tone of the habotai outer layer. The A-line skirt features two co-centric ring appliqué details at each side seam done in an antiqued white color that reflect the black suede lines in the other two pieces. It fits promptly at the waist with a wide waistband that closes at centre back with two buttons and an invisible zip. Selections from this ensemble work beautifully as separates or can be worn together to maximize the optical effect created by the linear appliqués.

Size estimate: XS/S

Dress: Bust: 30-32 inches

Waist: 25 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 34 inches

Skirt:

Waist: 25 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 37.5 inches

This Fendi ensemble is carefully made with attention to the utmost detail. It balances excellently linear rhythm and transparency. Each piece from this ensemble is in very good condition with only some mild wear on the suede appliqué of the cape.

This ensemble has been cleansed with obsidian and sage to ensure that you are welcoming a bright new energy into your home.

High-quality 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. 

Reference photo: Fendi, Vogue Italia, PH: Mark Seliger

Fendi Runway Spring 2008, look #27