Background & description

Look 43 from Ralph Lauren's Spring 2011 collection is an effortless, versatile maxi dress, as suitable for a rehearsal dinner in Florence as a mountaintop elopement in the Alps. Vogue described Lauren's Spring 2011 collection as "cowgirl couture," but this dreamy, '70s-inspired piece feels more Rhiannon than Home on the Range.

Look 43 was crafted from crinkle silk chiffon, an ethereal and lightweight fabric that catches the wind and has beautiful movement. The bodice has a dropped shoulder, butterfly sleeves, and a plunging neckline. The neckline closes with a set of hooks and eyes, as shown in our photos of the dress on a dress form; but in the photos of Lauren wearing the dress, she chose to leave the neckline fully open.

The waist has a hidden elastic that provides maximum waist definition so the dress doesn't appear boxy. (Because this is the only part of the dress that conforms to the body, there is some flexibility in sizing.) The waistline is accented with a ruffle that has subtle pearl trim, which adds some visual texture and romance. The skirt is softly gathered.

Note that this dress is somewhat transparent, and you may wish to wear flesh-toned undergarments for modesty.

Condition

This dress has never been worn. It came to us with the original package of extra thread and pearls.