Monique Lhuillier 'Qipao (Cheongsam) Long Sleeve Lace Illusion Wedding Dress'

ONE OF A KIND! Monique Lhuillier Bride Spring 2003 Collection' - Featured in Her Runway Show

Ex the usual floral pattern for lace gone wild! Avant-garde lace-like spun sugar or a 'drunk' spider web. Makes for a modern twist on the classic cheongsam or 'qipao' silk dress. Belt not included but 'abstract' top layer is just as seen with slip dress beneath. And it is indeed abstract - in the best sense.

Lace like a Jackson Pollock drip painting. There is a close-up shot of belt loop where you can create your own cinched alternative - simple or sparkly, maybe blue?

Purchased at the Lhuillier flagship salon in Beverly Hills. This sample dress was worn on the runway and/or photoshoot but never made it into production. Salon estimated street size 6.

I had the pure silk bias-cut slip dress dry-cleaned but not the lace overlay. Quite delicately constructed lace so I leave that to the buyer's discretion/preference. Tried to capture some bottom area where it was likely dragged backstage on the floor. No rips nor tears but a very close examination will reveal some grey-ish light dinginess only on the bottom layer.

This back bottom is longer, allowing for a train depending on height. From shoulder to back hem, the complete measurement is 74 inches. The inside of the Mandarin collar is slightly yellowed - perhaps from the model's make-up. Again though, a reputable cleaner can easily address well.

Other than the Lhuillier use by their model, it remains unworn. I did not purchase for a wedding but was simply drawn to the lace - so unique! Figured I might dye it one day. But now, I'd rather leave it untouched and offer to another to display this lacey art piece; it is truly meant to be worn - if only once.

Regretting not being able to better demonstrate the detail that might be lost on this computer pictorial. In lieu of Pankou knots ( or frog buttons) that are typically seen on traditional qipaos, this dress features crystal buttons down both sleeves and along on the traditional asymmetrical 'flap' and are all intact. Catching the light, they allow for some visual contrast to this intricate fabric. In-person, this lace has an arresting web-like depth, the most stunning all-over detail.

There are little to no pictures that can be found of this dress but you can view one here: https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/news-photo/monique-lhuilliers-run-way-news-photo/81644392. The model at the very front on the far left is wearing this gown.