Gianni Versace SS1996 Haute Couture Amethyst Skirt Suit

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

Renowned for designs that encapsulated the sex appeal of the 1990s, Gianni Versace’s creations adorned supermodels and celebrities alike, both on and off the runway.

Fusing luxurious classicism with overt sexuality, Versace’s suits blended bold, bright colours with sharp cuts and daring slits. It was designs like these that he would cloak his supermodels in - Versace’s posse of models that became so synonymous with the brand after his FW91 “Freedom! ’90’” show.

Versace’s Spring/Summer 1996 ready-to-wear collection was aplenty with monochromatic looks in bright neons. Skirt and pantsuits were paired with cropped jackets that occasionally exposed midriffs. The colour palette was holistic with sunglasses and shoes matching suits. The purple colour scheme evident in this skirt suit, however, emerged in Versace’s haute couture show that same season. The collection featured more elaborate designs with purple coats and dresses - one of which, worn by Naomi Campbell, matches the colouring and cut of this suit.

Constructed of an amethyst wool crepe, this striking skirt suit bears all the Versace hallmarks. Sharply cut, with a cropped single breasted jacket, the skirt features a matching slimline belt with silver hardware and side zip fastening. Trademark medusa buttons in complementary colouring feature a silver trim with the decorative meander pattern. Silk lined, the jacket has a rear exterior belt: a bold design feature that also serves to accentuate the hourglass feminine shape.

Long associated with royalty, power and wealth; purple imbues a certain dynamism from its mix of calming blue and intense red - an energy felt in this suit and strongly associated with Versace’s American influence.

Notably, Princess Diana wore a Gianni Versace dress in this same purple with matching Versace heels and clutch to a charity gala in Chicago in 1996.

Made in Italy.

100% Wool; Lining: 100% Silk

Condition: Two light marks to the jacket’s interior collar, not visible when worn. Skirt has a few small marks to the front that are largely unnoticeable.

SIZE & FIT:

Size: IT 42 - FR 38 - UK 10 - US 6

Fit: Ideally suited to a women’s size 6.

Measurements:

Jacket

• Shoulder Width: 41cm

• Chest Width: 45cm

• Body Length: 53cm

• Sleeve Length: 55cm

Skirt

• Waist: 35.5cm (with adjustable belt)

• Length: 50cm

• Hem: 51cm

All measurements are taken with the garment laid flat.