Givenchy x John Galliano Spring 1996 Couture Skirt Suit

This red bow-pocket skirt suit from Givenchy’s Spring 1996 Couture collection dates to John Galliano’s brief but influential tenure as creative director, when he reimagined the house’s couture heritage through his own romantic, theatrical lens. The bow-pocket motif - a hallmark detail appearing in both the Spring and Fall 1996 collections - is a masterclass in construction, an early display of Galliano’s cerebral approach to tailoring and structural illusion. The suit was immortalised in the campaign photographed by Richard Avedon and worn by model Ramsay Jones. This technical wit and precision foreshadowed the architectural mastery that would later define his tenure at Dior.

Cut from pure wool in the striking red that has come to be a signature of Givenchy, the jacket has a boxy cut with a wide single lapel. It fastens with four large pearlescent shell-like buttons that are hidden. The skirt is high-waisted and falls to the knee. They are both lined with tonal satin.

• Givenchy Spring 1996 Couture • Pure wool • Four bow faux-pockets • High-waist skirt • Lined with tonal satin • Made in France

Fabric: 100% Wool
Lining: 100% Acetate
Size on Label: French 40, UK 12, US 8
Stretch: No
Care: Dry clean only
Condition: Excellent

Jacket
Waist: 76 cm (30 inch)
Hips: 86.5 cm (34 inch)
Bust: 91.5 cm (36 inch)
Length: 58.5 cm (23 inch)

Skirt
Waist: 71 cm (28 inch)
Hips: 89 cm (35 inch)
Length: 62 cm (24.5 inch)