KOOS van den AKKER 1980s Black Lace & Green Silk 3-Pc Evening Ensemble, Size XS

This vintage Koos van den Akker three-piece evening ensemble from the early 1980s combines black sequins, floral lace and brilliant emerald-green silk in a sophisticated example of the designer’s signature textile-collage aesthetic. The ensemble includes a fitted black top, a full black lace skirt over an emerald-green under skirt, and an exceptionally long matching green silk sash that can be styled as a dramatic bow, belt or stole. The original label reads “Koos van den Akker / New York / den Haag.” The top is made from a slightly sheer black knit embellished with tiny black sequins that give it a subtle shimmer. It has a round neckline edged in the green silk with a deep keyhole opening at center front finished with narrow green ties. The skirt has a full, dirndl-style silhouette and falls to approximately mid-calf. It’s comprised of a black floral lace top layer over vivid emerald-green silk, allowing flashes of color to appear through the lace as the wearer moves. Completing the ensemble is an unusually long emerald-green silk sash. Wrapped around the waist, it can be tied into an oversized bow at the back with long ends falling to almost the length of the skirt. Its generous proportions also allow it to be worn more freely as a scarf or stole, substantially changing the appearance of the ensemble. Koos van den Akker was celebrated for mixing unexpected patterns, textures, and colors to create textile collages, and this ensemble offers a particularly elegant interpretation of his signature aesthetic. Rather than his better-known patchwork designs, this ensemble relies on a striking palette and a collage of textures to give it a dramatic presence. A distinctive and collectible example of Koos van den Akker’s early-1980s American designer fashion, ideal for evening, cocktail or formal wear and especially appealing to collectors of vintage art-to-wear and important American fashion design. No fiber content label is present, but the emerald-green fabric appears to be silk, likely dupioni woven silk. Measurements indicate the ensemble is closest to a modern US size 2. Review the photos carefully, because they, too, are part of the description. TOP MEASUREMENTS* - Underarm chest measurement is about 30" - Length is 24" down center back. - Sash is about 124" long, or 10'4" and 7 3/4" wide. SKIRT MEASUREMENTS* - Waist measures 22" relaxed and stretches to 24-25" - Hips are free. - Length is 36" *To better ensure a proper fit, please compare the actual measurements with those of similar garments that fits you. CONDITION Excellent condition with no apparent flaws. Appears to be unworn.