Jean Patou Black Organza Ruffle & Flounce Cocktail Dress, 1980s

Jean Patou was a prominent designer who rose to fame in the 1920s with his innovative women’s sportswear at the time. Rivaling the likes of Coco Chanel, Patou’s designs spoke to a similar simplicity and elegance for active and modern women. The House of Patou’s designs spoke to this aesthetic for decades until the house’s closure in 1987. Notable designers such as Karl Lagerfeld and Christian Lacroix have both served as creative leads for the house.

From the 1980s under Christian Lacroix's direction, this dress is done in a black silk organza with a classic silhouette. From the crew neckline, an overlay of black organza loosely flounces to bust level. Underneath a fitted bodice conforms to the body creating a beautifully defined waistline before blossoming into two more layers of flounced organza. This dress has stunning proportions and fullness that make this dress timelessly feminine and classic that can easily be worn as a day-to-night look.

Size estimate: Small

Measurements:

Bust: 36 inches

Waist: 31 inches

Hips: 34 inches

Length: 36 inches

In excellent condition, the dress closes with a concealed metal zip. The ruffles on the skirt portion have been fully lined in a matching silk. 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.