FW 1996 Grey Wool Open Back Embroidered Dress

Comme des Garçons
FW 1996 Grey Wool Open Back Embroidered Dress
Size S / 36

A distinctive Comme des Garçons dress from Fall/Winter 1996, combining an austere wool day-dress silhouette with an unexpectedly exposed back and graphic floral embroidery. Cut from finely patterned grey and black wool, the dress is relatively restrained from the front, with a V-neckline, shaped torso and gently flared midi-length skirt.

The sleeves provide the principal decorative element: black floral motifs are embroidered vertically along the outer arms, introducing an ornamental, almost folkloric language against the sober micro-patterned wool. The three-quarter sleeves remain straight and minimal, allowing the embroidery to read clearly against the fabric.

The back radically alters the character of the piece. A large sculptural cut-out exposes almost the entire back, framed by narrow fabric panels and secured at the neck with a self-fabric tie. The lower edge is softly gathered, creating volume through the skirt while emphasizing the contrast between the covered, disciplined front and the unexpected openness behind. This tension between modesty and exposure, traditional textile references and unconventional construction is particularly characteristic of Comme des Garçons’ approach to dress.

CONDITION

Good overall condition.
Several small areas of wear to the wool, including small holes and professionally repaired / darned sections, as shown in the photographs.
These remain discreet within the densely patterned fabric.

DETAILS

• Brand: Comme des Garçons

• Season: Fall/Winter 1996

• Production notation: AD1996

• Item type: Open-back embroidered dress

• Color: Grey / black

• Pattern: Fine micro-check / houndstooth-style weave

• Material: 100% Wool

• Made in: Japan

• Size on tag: S

• Estimated fit: S / EU 36

• Neckline: V-neck

• Sleeves: Three-quarter length

• Embroidery: Black floral embroidery along both sleeves

• Back: Large open-back construction

• Waist / lower back: Gathered construction with some flexibility

• Silhouette: Fitted through the upper body with a softly flared skirt

• Flaws / alterations: Small holes and several repaired / darned areas in the wool

MEASUREMENTS

• Armpits: 43 cm / 16.9 in

• Waist: 36–40 cm / 14.2–15.7 in

• Back length under collar: 106 cm / 41.7 in

Shipped from France.