Cristóbal Balenciaga. Long ivory satin evening gown decorated with multicoloured floral embroidery, metal threads and Strass rhinestones (1960) © Cristóbal Balenciaga Museo

This long ivory satin evening gown stands out for the richness of its materials and its elegant silhouette. The box neckline at the front becomes a deep V-neck at the back, creating sophistication and balance. The dress closes with a zip and hook & eye in the left seam, and is lined in silk taffeta in the same colour, ensuring it hangs perfectly.

The main fabric, white satin from the house of Abraham, is decorated with extremely delicate multicoloured floral embroidery, using silver, copper and golden metal threads, chenille yarn and Strass rhinestones set in a metallic structure. The skirt also has a tarlatan petticoat between the outer fabric and lining to provide volume and structure, and to highlight the shape of the design.