13/11/2014
The Kerry Taylor Auctions team discuss their favourite lots in the sale...
Kerry Taylor: My favourite thing has to be the Schiaparelli Zodiac coat, lot 81. When I opened the box containing it and lifted the layers of tissue to expose those exquisite pockets decorated with gilded Sevres porcelain blossom – the beauty of it literally took my breath away. I couldn’t move, couldn’t speak – completely stunned into silence. It gets harder and harder with every passing year to make these discoveries and I always marvel that it is still possible. To find this major piece of 20th Century haute couture, so fragile yet so perfect – is what makes my job so wonderful!
Kate Osborn: I really love lot 135, the Mr Freedom baseball suit, designed by Diana Crawford. Not only is it an incredibly groovy design in itself but we also have the original receipt from the shop. I love knowing where items come from and it's a lovely addition to know that the original owner recalls paying £21 for the piece in 2 instalments when she was 15. What a cool 15-year-old! The following lot, the Mr Freedom shoes are also very cool and both lots capture a great, fun moment in 1970s fashion.
Lucy Bishop: My favourite piece in this sale is the black beaded tulle couture evening gown (lot 103). It is a real show-stopper and reminds me of the very similar figure-hugging gown worn by Rosemary Clooney in the 1954 classic ‘White Christmas’. The scene where she sultrily emerges on stage, her perfect hourglass figure silhouetted against a hot pink curtain is memorable. Considering this heavily beaded gown was made by an unknown couturier, it could be a bit of a bargain.
Our fine December sale contains a wonderful selection of fashion and accessories, whatever your taste. The sale includes one of the finest selections of Japanese fashion ever to come onto the market; rare Jean Paul Gaultier haute couture; a splendid offering of Alexander McQueen, including pieces from his early and controversial ‘Highland Rape’ collection (A-W 1995-96). For those just seeking a little Christmas gift to place under the tree, we have lots of lovely Chanel and Hermès handbags, belts and jewellery. For those of you seeking the perfect dress for the party season, we also have wonderful red-carpet gowns as well as chic cocktail wear. Have a look through the catalogue and find your favourite!