I always watch for caftans and pieces by Yuki. It is one of the more rare labels to find and I love his work. Gnyuki Torimaru started out as an architect before becoming a textile engineer and then a designer. He worked for Louis Feraud, Pierre Cardin and Norman Norell before striking out on his own in 1972.

One of his trademarks was to use minimal seaming on his pieces and this caftan is no exception to that. It had just one central seam that runs down the back and then the seams that form the tops of each sleeve and neckline. To give it a suggestion of shape, he then gathered the fabric just under the bust at the front.  Inside this gathering portion of fabric is attached to a pipped waist stay in the same fabric so the dress is held perfectly in place when on. It is shockingly sexy despite its full cut because of the draping. The neckline is set wide and the top of each shoulder is left bare above where you slip your arms through. You are completely covered and yet the draping does a magnificent job of suggesting the figure underneath. All while hiding anything you wish to hide. It is gathered at that center front which allows it to drape and cocoon down the sides beautifully. The jersey is a light synthetic that drapes and moves beautifully. Excellent condition

Unlined and closes with hook & eye down the back but at some point someone has tacked it closed so you don't get gaps between the hooks. It easily slips on so I decided to leave it as its actually quite practical this way. The inner waist stay is elastic and hooks to close. The cut will allow it to fit a large range of sizes as it will just drape more on a smaller figure.

Bust-hip: open
Elastic waist stay: stretches and will fit a 22" waist up to 38"
Length: "58.5 from waist to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: OSFA

Item# DD3422

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.