Comme des Garçons SS1996 Deconstructed Velvet Panel Dress – Cream & Red Floral

Size S–M (please refer to measurements)

A rare archival Comme des Garçons dress from Rei Kawakubo's landmark Spring/Summer 1996 collection, one of the most studied and influential seasons in the house's history. This documented runway piece features the exact red floral burnout velvet panel fabric seen in the original presentation.

Constructed in cream cotton, the dress features a sleeveless silhouette with a deep V-neckline and dramatic side slits opening along the body. The defining element is the large asymmetric velvet panel inserted at the hip — a richly textured peach-ground floral burnout fabric that interrupts the simplicity of the cotton base with deliberate tension and contrast.

The juxtaposition between the raw minimalism of the cream cotton and the opulent velvet insertion reflects Kawakubo's signature approach during this era: garments constructed through collision rather than harmony. Below the panel, the dress falls into a softly flared hemline that moves fluidly with the body.

Both sculptural and conceptual, the piece exists as a defining example of mid-1990s Comme des Garçons — where deconstruction, asymmetry, and textile experimentation became a new language in fashion.

A true museum-worthy collector's garment from one of Rei Kawakubo's most historically significant collections.

Condition:
Some light wear consistent with age. Professionally cleaned.

Measurements – laid flat:
Shoulder Width – 39 cm
Chest Width – 48 cm
Length – 128 cm

Composition:
Body – 100% Cotton
Panel – Burnout Velvet Blend (Velours mélange)

All our products are dry cleaned and washed before shipping.