This is an early and rare piece from the very earliest days of Roberto Cavalli's career and it is quite fabulous as it demonstrates wonderfully the process he developed where he was able to transfer prints and paints onto leather. He presented his first collection with this process in 1972 and immediately the bohemian crowd flocked to him to place their orders. (the other jacket I am listing along with this one is also a museum quality example of all three of his signatures during this time period - the printed leathers, the hand painted leather and denim.) It is interesting to note that Bridgette Bardot was a huge fan of his work and many of the shots from this time period of her have her wearing his designs. This jacket is literally a work of art. I count at least 8 separate designs worked onto the leather and then patched together to form this incredible jacket. It is made of a very very lightweight leather that is left unlined so is incredibly thin and more like a fabric then a leather. The designs are beautiful and a mix of different florals. It is cut to be fitted through the upper body and then flares out under the waist. It has an incredibly long and pointed collar. On each sleeve and the back is a leather "medallion" with streamers of leather falling from each. It's amazing really. It has no label other then its shop label but the prints and copper enamel buttons identify it as a Cavalli. It can be worn as a jacket or mini dress. Excellent, museum quality condition.
Unlined and closes at the front with snaps hidden under the buttons. The Judy it is photoed on is a size 2 and it just fits this so is a definite 0-2
Sleeves: 22"
Shoulders: 14.5"
Bust: 16" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 14.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Bodice: 14.5" from neck to waist
Skirt: 18" from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS
Photo: Brigitte Bardot (credit unknown)
Item# S740
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.