This is one of the iconic and classic looks from the Rive Gauche collection and these are hard to find in such pristine condition. This took a the smock style dress and added classic Yves Saint Laurent style and chicness. The fabric is a soft, fluid silk cotton, with a plush velvet bodice in inky black. All the edges are black flat braiding that are placed to emphasize the lines of the dress and give it† a slight Russian feel. I love the bold polished black buttons that close the dress at the top of the bodice and adorn each sleeve. The skirt is amazingly constructed with lots of fullness and also finished with the braiding detail so that it has a touch of weight and falls and drapes perfectly. It really transforms when on a real girl and is just wonderful! Amazing and rare piece of fashion history and in excellent, museum quality condition. Item# DD837