1989 Gianni Versace Haute Couture Beaded Circus Novelty Strapless Gown and Shawl

ID: 0619192

Size: medium

Condition: Excellent

An exceptional and museum quality Gianni Versace hand-beaded gown and matching full-length shawl dating back to his famous 1989 haute couture collection. This one-of-a-kind ensemble was a custom commission for a Saudi Araabian Princess costing well over $300,000 back then. Versace’s creations were enjoyed by the super wealthy but his impact was felt across a wider section of society through diffusion lines. Stylistically accessible and instantly recognisable, Versace’s fearless designs came to epitomise the 1980's and 1990's. This lavish gown ensemble is a celebration of Cyrk Polish circus poster art. Cyrk emerged in 1962 and is characterized by their display of aesthetic qualities such as painterly gestures, linear design, hand-lettering, metaphors, humor, and vibrant colors. The garment features thousands of hand sewn crystals and sequins in a classic novelty Cyrk advertisement motif. From the acrobatics to the outer space rainbow city, the workmanship is wearable art at it's finest. The beadwork on the gown alone must have taken months to complete. I adore the strapless corset nipped-waist bodice which is an ultra flattering silhouette. The voluminous trained skirt finishes this off with an Old Hollywood starlet vibe. The matching fringed full-length jeweled shawl is a statement piece in it's own right. The pictures really say it all. The mark of a truly fashionable garment is that it remains stylish and timeless decades later and this rare Gianni Versace treasure surely delivers.

Measurements
Bust: 37-38 inches
Waist: 31 inches
Hips: Free Sweep
Front Total Length: 51 inches
Back Total Length: 62 inches
Shawl: 110 inches x 50 inches with Fringe 10 inches 

This ultra rare 1989 Gianni Versace documented runway couture gown ensemble is in excellent condition with no rips, stains or holes. The custom beadwork is all hand-sewn and also comes with additional replacement beads if needed. The gown alone weights over fifteen pounds. The inside is immaculate and all hand-finished with corset structure. The matching shawl is also in wonderful condition, even the fringe looks untouched. Highly wearable and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value. A true rarity.