Vintage Jacqueline de Ribes Silk Skirt Suit 2 pc 1980s Saks Fifth Avenue Size XL

This is a 1980s era skirt suit by society designer Jacqueline de Ribes.  Jacqueline de Ribes (b 1929) is a French countess, long known for her fashion sense, named to the International Best Dressed List in 1956 and named to its Hall of Fame in 1962.  She had always suggested alterations and submitted original ideas for the clothing made for her by the top French couture designers, such as Marc Bohan and Yves Saint Laurent, and in 1983 launched her own ready-to-wear business, which was immediately successful and which led to a three year exclusive deal with Saks Fifth Avenue.  Her style influenced the television show Dallas and many of the social elite wore her clothing, including Joan Collins, Nancy Reagan, Cher, Raquel Welch and Barbara Walters.  She closed her business in 1995.

This skirt suit was acquired from the estate of one of the wealthiest women in Canada, who, like the Comtess de Ribes, was a patron and philanthropist.  The suit is made of a cream white silk with blue and navy blue silk trim along the curviform opening and on the pocket at the right side of the jacket.  The jacket has large shoulder pads, a slight puff at the top of the sleeves, and closes with four hidden shell buttons and a snap at the neck.  The skirt is made in a below the knee length and has a blue silk covered belt.  There is a pocket built into either side and the skirt closes at the side with a fine tooth metal zipper.  Both pieces are lined in silk and the suit is hand finished.  Please note that the original owner was a large lady, so the suit was too large for my mannequin and had to be pinned back to fit.

Age: 1980s

Label: Jacqueline de Ribes Paris New York Made in France.  A second label reads Saks Fifth Avenue.  

Sizing: There is no size indicated as this was probably custom made,  As mentioned, the original owner was a large women, so although this should fit an extra large size, please rely on the following measurements for fit:

Jacket:

Shoulders:  15” across from seam to seam, 18” across including the sleeve caps

Sleeves:  25” from the shoulder seam, including the sleeve cap

Sleeve inseam:  16 1/2”

Bust:  44” around

Waist: 39” around

Overall length:  25“, measured flat

Skirt:

Waist:  34”

Hips:  44”, probably should fall somewhat loosely

Length:  27 1/2”

Condition:  It is in very good condition with no wear, tear, holes or odors - the only sign of wear is to the belt used for the skirt and this is fairly minor.  This suit has been very well cared for and stored over the years.  

This is a quality suit featuring sculpted design and attractive detailing - Jacqueline de Ribes is an important figure in French fashion!