.. It was often said in the early 1960s, all a woman needs to be well dressed is a Balenciaga suit and a evening gown. A Balenciaga dress and jacket ensemble was a highly prized acquisition, and most are lost to the ages as the owners wore them so much, they wore out. I am thrilled to say, this rare beauty survived without a sign of wear.

.. The fabric is fabulous. Its finely woven, highly textured with light boucle. I think it may be a wool/mohair blend, as there are longish fibers that add to the rich texture. Its not fuzzy or fluffy, very subtle, very unique. The color is a deep olive green. Both pieces are lined in silk.

.. The dress is stunning. I guess I would call it a sheath style, but it is really way beyond that. The bodice has a full, crossover panel that buttons on the left side. There is also a long side zipper that opens down the left side. At the end of that zipper, at the waist. The skirting is meticulously pleated down the front of each hip, with deep pockets in each fold.

.. The jacket is a classic Balenciaga cut with princess seams and slender kimono sleeves. The delicate notched collar and simple plastic buttons are also trademark Balenciaga. As will all Balenciaga ensembles, the dress and jacket are perfectly matched to each other so they blend seamlessly and elegantly with each other.