Zuhair Murad • Buono

2003 Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Embroidered Tulle Beaded Dress

14.000,00 £

This extraordinary gown was created for Zuhair Murad’s Fall 2003 Haute Couture collection. A version of the design was shown on the runway, while this couture example differs slightly in its finishing: our gown has no skirt slit and the embroidery reads as a richer antique-gold tone rather than green. The body is constructed from four extraordinarily fine layers of tulle: two layers of burgundy, followed by pale brown and finally chartreuse. Seen together, the different colours create a wonderfully complex, almost iridescent depth that shifts as the dress moves. The neckline is cut wide and off the shoulder, while the body hugs and sculpts the figure before opening dramatically into the flared skirt. The asymmetric sleeves are particularly striking: one is cut long and slim, while the other opens into a sweeping angel sleeve edged with beaded fringe. Across the bodice and sleeves, elaborate burgundy embroidery and beadwork forms climbing vines and florals, punctuated with tiny sage-toned leaves and red beaded berries. The skirt is worked with swirling antique-gold foliage, further embellished with burgundy vines, flowers and tiny tonal sequins. The density and intricacy of the handwork is exceptional. Internally, the bust is supported by a caramel-toned boned corset, while the skirt is lined in matching caramel silk. The dress fastens at the centre back with a concealed tonal zip and hook-and-eye. The gown is in excellent vintage condition, with the delicate tulle, embroidery and beadwork beautifully preserved and no issues of any note. As a couture-made piece, there are no conventional size or composition labels and we estimate a best fit for around a UK 8-10 or US 4-6. The fabric has no stretch, so please refer to the measurements below to ensure the best fit. Notes on Designer Zuhair Murad established his house in Beirut in 1997 and began showing couture in Paris in the early 2000s. His reputation grew rapidly through a particularly glamorous form of couture built around intricate embroidery, elaborate beadwork, illusion tulle and highly feminine evening silhouettes. His designs have since become a major presence on international red carpets, worn by Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry and many other leading performers and actresses. Murad’s combination of traditional atelier craftsmanship with unapologetic glamour has made him one of the most recognisable contemporary couturiers, with haute couture, bridal and ready-to-wear collections produced through the house’s Beirut and Paris operations. MEASUREMENTS BUST - 34 in. (86 cm) WAIST - 28 in. (71 cm) HIP - 38 in. (97 cm) LENGTH - 60 in. (152 cm) LENGTH BACK - 66 in. (168 cm)