Christian Dior Black Flower Print Silk Chiffon Ruffle Dress by John Galliano (AW 2002)

Curator’s Note

This dress was designed by John Galliano for Christian Dior's Autumn/Winter 2002–2003 ready-to-wear collection, also known as “Funky Folklore”. Its 51 looks brought the travel references of that spring’s couture into ready-to-wear. They included Peruvian knitted Mohican hats, Rajasthani mirrorwork on denim, Afghan smocks, Chinese embroidery and Russian provincial paisleys printed on lacquered leather, silk and chiffon. The finale included bias-cut chiffon and lace evening gowns. WWD’s cover the next morning called the show “a cross-cultural joy-ride”. This dress is made from black silk chiffon printed with large red flowers and green foliage. An asymmetrical ruffle crosses the neckline and continues down the side of the dress, framing a high slit. Its lightweight chiffon, floral print and irregular draping reflect the combination of decorative detail and bias-cut eveningwear seen throughout Galliano's work. 

Description 

• Black silk chiffon with a large-scale floral print in red, green and beige
• Asymmetrical neckline with a chiffon ruffle at the chest and over one shoulder
• Thin spaghetti strap on the opposite shoulder
• Draped ruffle running diagonally across the front
• Ruffle continues down one side of the dress, forming a high slit Black lace panel visible beneath the slit
• Asymmetrical hem, in places falling below the knee with longer pointed sections

Size and Measurements

• No size label, best fits XS - S (Please refer to measurements for accurate fit)
• Measurements are taken with the garment laid flat:
  • Chest: 36cm
  • Waist: 32cm
  • Hips: 40cm
  • Length: 105-155cm (asymmetric hemline)