Hanae Mori Couture Green Floral Print Silk Caftan Maxi Dress, 1970s

Japanese designer Hanae Mori is not only an extremely successful designer in her own rite but was also trailblazer in the integration of authentic Japanese aesthetic on the global scale. As one of the first Japanese women to showcase on Paris runways, she made history as the first Asian woman to be admitted to the Chambre Syndicale as an official haute couture designer. With a diverse design vision from tailoring to traditional kimono inspired prints and silhouettes, Mori’s design influence is still recognizable on a global scale with her work currently on display at the V&A’s exhibit Kyoto to Catwalk.

Done in a rich forest green silk chiffon, this caftan maxi dress is either from her 1975 or 1976 collection. Across the dress, large floral motifs in pastel blue and coral as well as whimsical white leaf outlines give this dress a serene and ethereal feel. From a boat neckline, this dress falls into a column silhouette as a full caplet forms mock angel sleeves and adds dimension to the dress.

On the back a high back V-neckline showcases a touch of skin to balance out the overall design. Vibrant and easy, this Mori creation is a stunning evening wear option with a quintessentially 70s vintage charm.

Size estimate: S/M

Shoulders:

Bust: 36 inches

Waist: 36 inches

Hips: 36 inches

Length: 56 inches

Below the chiffon, this dress has a matching silk base layer and is fully lined in silk. This dress closes at centre back with an invisible zip and tiny covered snaps. In good condition, the dress has a few runs and evidence of wear to the fine fabric with a small hole on the left front of the chiffon.

Overall the dress is in very good wearable condition and 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.