Leonard of Paris Suits, Outfits and Ensembles

Synonymous with luxury and innovation, Leonard Paris is collected for its unique prints, like the one found on this dazzling three-piece set from the 1970’s. The kaleidoscopic print has an oriental feel, incorporating flowers such as camellias and chrysanthemums which have traditionally been embroidered on kimonos in Japan. The multiple patterns form a rich canvas for this ensemble, and is a grand example of designer Daniel Tribouillard’s artistry and love of flowers. Done in a black silk jersey, the tunic begins with a high mandarin collar with cloth button closures, bringing some structure to the otherwise lounge-like feel of this set. Falling several inches above the knee, this tunic can easily be worn as a mini-dress, the beautifully draped kimono sleeves adding a flair of drama while allowing for greater ease of movement. The matching ankle-length pants have black piping down the sides and are tailored to perfection with a straight waistband, pockets, and front pleats, ensuring a slender fit. An accompanying belt of the same fabric may be worn tied at the waist, completing the elegant wrap style silhouette of this ensemble. The collar is done in print of small jewel-colored flowers and leaves, bordered by stripes of black, light pink, and magenta. This pattern repeats a second time in a concentric circle below the collar, elongating the neck. A pattern of pink whorls and large pink and black chrysanthemums winds its way through the body of the tunic, punctuated by bursts of blooming flowers with turquoise centers and red stamens, surrounded by clusters of magenta leaves. The kimono style sleeves are done largely in a red honeycomb pattern on a black ground with a small flower set in the center of each hexagon, while a contrasting print of black and pink flowers on a woven ivory ground is set down the side of each sleeve in a narrow band, emphasizing the line from the shoulder. The lower half of the tunic brings balance to the intricate medley of color above the waist, with evenly spaced rows of jewel-colored camellias on a black ground offering a stunning contrast with its use of negative space. A complimentary...