We continue on our “sob, let’s replace the canceled Nobel ceremonies with visits to past glories” series with a look back to an unusual gown worn by Queen Silvia.
The Facts
Never say Queen Silvia isn’t adventurous with her design choices. In 2006, she chose the design house Yuki for her Nobel gown. We’re going to do a bit of a mash-up between a Designer Diary and a Defense here, since most of us aren’t that familiar with the designer.
Gnyuki Torimaru was born in Miyazaki-Ken, in Japan, in 1937. Like many other designers, he didn’t initially set out to make a name in fashion. He studied architecture at the Art Institute of Chicago and eventally became a textile engineer. He moved to London in 1964, where he attended the London College of Fashion, graduating in 1966. Later, he settled on the professional name YUKI.
He worked for the design houses of Norman Hartnell and Pierre Cardin before launching his own label in 1972. The line was sold primarily at the upscale department store, Harvey Nichols. He became known for dramatically draped jersey garments, cut on a full circle without seaming. In the eighties he began to work intricate pleating into his designs. He famously designed a dress for Princess Diana’s 1986 tour of Japan. Many of his designs are on display at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. He’s an artist and a designer.
Back around to Silvia’s dress. For her, the designer crafted a white gown, using his usual style elements. The gown is pleated and cut on a full circle. Silvia paired it with the Leuchtenberg sapphire set, for maximum dramatic effect. It’s a gown that’s possibly even more interesting from behind.
The Case for the Dress
The Bag: I will always applaud the unusual, especially when it appears on a Classic Queen, such as Silvia. I like the white, I love the back and I like the step away from her usual sparkles and ballgowns.
LiL: The part that bothers me the most is the part that makes it so unique. I can look past the sleeves though, if it means we get a more streamlined Sils. Which I can’t get enough of.
OC: YASSSS. Adventurous yet elegant.
LG: You know I love me a big, dramatic sleeve, so I am all in on this one. Add in the interesting design for the back of the gown and the Sapphires, and it’s a Nobel win!
The Case Against the Dress
Well, what do you know? All hofdames are onboard with unusual designs. Let us know your thoughts!