Dress background & description
 
Ralph Lauren's Autumn/Winter 2007 collection, which came following the designer's extensive travels in North Africa and India, was viewed as a resounding success. As critic Nicole Phelps wrote for VOGUE: "Leave the 180-degree turns, the frantic grasping for new ideas, to other designers. Ralph Lauren delivered one more in a line of self-assured collections today, and even better, proved he still has the power to surprise." The evening looks were the standouts of the A/W 2007 collection, including this iconic evening gown. (A video of the runway show is available at this link.)
 
The gown is made of rich, velvety, chocolate-brown suede. It features Lauren's signature jewel neckline and daring open back, with crossed straps ending in a subtle V at the low waist. It is fully lined and trimmed with a coordinating brown piping. The skirt is full, with suede panels emanating from the waist seam to give it movement and drama. It also has pockets.
 
It's difficult to imagine a garment that is more emblematic of Lauren's singular design aesthetic - but easy to imagine this dress in a future museum retrospective of his career. I have never seen another one of these gowns, and I doubt I will again. It is an incredible opportunity to own a museum-worthy investment piece, and I am so glad to be able to offer it to our community. 
 
While this gown is obviously worthy of a red carpet event, we also think that it would make the perfect alternative wedding dress. 
 
I obtained it from the original owner, who wore it on one occasion. It is in excellent vintage condition and is ready to be worn.
 
Size & measurements
 
This gown is tagged a size 8. The exterior garment measurements are roughly:
 
Bust - 36" 
Waist - 29"
Hip - free
 
Note that this dress is not a candidate for being let out to accommodate a larger size. Suede and leather, once altered, cannot be returned to their original state, as sewing lines create permanent holes in the material.