Super fun "lightening" patterned dress made of Tyvek, the durable paper used for FedEx envelopes.
This was one of 5 in a series designed by artist Sarah Caplan and sold under the MPH label in 1999.
The dresses toured the world in the exhibition "Rrripp! Paper Fashion" and are still on exhibit in museums across the country.
More work of art than article of clothing, really.
It was probably one of the most expensive impulse purchases of my life when I bought it brand-new in 1999 at Yu boutique on Ludlow Street in NYC for $120, but I had to have it.
I wore it less than a handful of times, but I always caused a storm when I did, most notably at a friend's wedding.
I have seen only one of these for sale online, and it was a vintage poster shop asking $520 (that one appears brand new).
There is a small tear at the seam of the left arm opening but a paper conservator should be able to correct that as well as 3 miniscule spots where a glimpse of the white paper shows through the blue design.
Or you can just enjoy it as is, with care.
There are snaps at the shoulders that I have never unsnapped.
It is labeled size small, which was probably a 6 at the time. The waist is 38" around.
I'm 5'4" and it hits right at the knee.
Shipping
$1.29
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