40s hattie carnegie sequin floral corset bodice - museum rarity

40s hattie carnegie sequin floral corset bodice - museum rarityThis late 40s Hattie Carnegie corset bodice is a rare piece of American demi couture history. Hand applied sequins form bold floral stems down the front, with a sculpted blush rayon faille base that feels straight out of the postwar Paris revival. Carnegie was known for her impeccably made separates, and this bodice is one of the most collectible categories from her house.

Floral scrollwork throughout

Gucci signature

giving it a cloud-like silhouette that exudes late-’90s or y2k glam

and braided rope detail

cerrato pieces are documented in turin and milan costume collections

Sculptural 1980s pleated skirt in bold black-and-white geometry

then secured with visible top-stitching for a clean

Charming handknit cardigan in soft periwinkle blue with delicate cabling and luminous mother of pearl buttons

fitted silhouette with pointed collar

and may vary slightly

Bold and colorful

it balances playful iconography with substantial knit construction