Pink matelassé trouser suit
Designed by Balenciaga, Paris, 1966
T.35-1974

As with his 'sack' dress, Balenciaga employed the tunic to take the focus away from the waistline. This looser garment allowed for freedom of movement and became an item of both men's and women's clothing. The tunic of this outfit is hip length with two front lapels and has a round neck and three-quarter length sleeves.
Western women adopted trousers as everyday wear for the first time during the sixties. These trousers taper towards the ankles and fasten at the side. The outfit is made from matelassé, a fabric with two layers of cloth and a quilted surface.

Worn and given by Countess Bismarck