CHICAGO, IL.- Hindman Auctions will present Spring Fashion: A Century of Couture on March 18, 2021. The auction will feature hallmarks of some of the most important moments in fashion, from the dawn of the 20th century to the cutting edge of contemporary avant-garde. Designers featured in the sale include Hermès, Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Charles James, Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent, and Pierre Cardin, among others.
Iconic designs include a number of Hermès leather Kelly bags (lots 269-271 and lot 274, with estimates ranging from $2,000-6,000). A sculptural Charles James gown (lot 5; estimate: $1,500-3,500) is an exceptional piece that dates from the 1940s and anticipates the structured, bold tailoring of the 1980s. A House of Weeks evening coat from the 1920s (lot 3; estimate: $1,000-3,000) stands out with a look towards the East for its inspiration. A 1970s four piece Saint Laurent Rive Gauche peasant ensemble (lot 8; estimate: $1,000-2,000) is another attractive design and a staple in fashion history.
An archive of thirteen conceptual sketches for I.J. Fox, by James Montgomery Flagg and Russell Patterson (lot 4; estimate: $4,000-$6,000) is another exciting and historically significant lot. Through his work as a celebrated American illustrator and cartoonist, Russell Patterson became known for promoting the iconic fashion style of the flapper, and his work was featured in notable publications such as Vanity Fair, Vogue, and the Saturday Evening Post. Artist James Montgomery Flagg was known for his political illustrations and created the famous World War I poster for Uncle Sam, “I Want You.”
Other highlights include numerous Chanel items such as an embroidered denim double flap shoulder bag from 2006-2008 (lot 98; estimate: $800-$1,000) and a quilted flap bag from 1997-1999 (lot 45; estimate: $1,000-2,000). Many of the Chanel items are unworn and retain their retail tags.
Bidding for the March 18 online-only sale begins at 10 am CT. Bidders will be able to participate live online through the Digital Bid Room, Hindman’s recently launched online and mobile bidding platform. A private preview of the auction will be available at Hindman’s Chicago office by appointment only.
