This is an amazing mid-fifties numbered silk Christian Dior London dress that was sold through Holt Renfrew. The dress is so representative of that time period for the house of Dior. The "New Look" was in full swing and the excessive use of fabric and the full skirted silhouette is presented beautifully in this dress. The shawl or portrait collar is expansive and covers the entire shoulder - in notes for other shawled collared dress The Met comments "A full skirt balances a nipped waist or a portrait collar counteracts a fitted bodice in numerous examples of Dior's work". I love the soft bow made of multiple pieces of fabric - pieced into place rather then ties as one long expanse. The sleeves are to the elbow and the bodice fitted and nipped in at the waist. The full and beautiful skirt shows off the gorgous floral woven silk to its greatest possible advanatge with yards of fabric flowing out form the waist. It is exquisite and a stunning, rare and early Dior! Item# DD847