Cristóbal Balenciaga, Long evening gown, in ivory silk crepon with a delicate floral pattern in shades of pink and green (1968). © Cristóbal Balenciaga Museoa

This long evening gown, in ivory silk crepon with a delicate floral pattern in shades of pink and green, combines structure and lightness.

The front is cut as a single piece consisting of body and skirt, fitted with vertical pleats to create the silhouette. In turn, the back features precisely assembled geometrical pieces, forming a structured pattern that contrasts with the overall flow. The gown has a slit in the front of the skirt to provide movement and elegance and is fully lined in white silk crepe. The gown fastens at the back with an “Eclair” zip, nine press-stud buttons and hooks and eyes, skilfully hidden so as not to alter the clean cut of the design.

The fabric, from the prestigious Tissu Sache, highlights the characteristic quality and care in the choice of the materials in Balenciaga’s haute couture.