Editor's Notes
The Solace London Claudette Strapless Pleated Maxi Gown is a floor-length, strapless evening gown in black, constructed from a structured polyester twill bustier bodice with a long pleated chiffon skirt and a stretch polyester lining. The twill bustier has a smooth, slightly lustrous surface with a natural structure and weight that allows it to hold its sculptural, draped form with precision, and the pleated chiffon skirt has a fluid, matte finish that falls with a full, sweeping pleat from the hip to the floor.
The draped, sculptural twill bustier is the defining design choice, a precisely engineered diagonal drape across the chest that creates a peplum-like silhouette at the waist and gives the bodice a three-dimensional, architectural quality that is characteristic of Solace London's approach to occasion dressing. The contrast between the structured, slightly lustrous twill of the bustier and the fluid, pleated chiffon of the skirt is the central design tension of the Claudette, and it gives the gown a considered, multi-textural presence that rewards a closer look. The full, sweeping pleats of the chiffon skirt fall from the hip with a generous, fluid movement that adds a dramatic, occasion-ready sweep to the full-length silhouette. The back zip closure keeps the silhouette completely clean from the front, and the stretch polyester lining provides a comfortable, body-skimming interior that supports the slim fit through the bustier.
It is a refined, occasion-investment gown built around the quality of its twill and chiffon construction and the considered, sculptural identity of Solace London's Claudette design.
Made in Italy. Available in UK sizes 6 to 10.
- Silhouette: Strapless, slim fit, draped bustier bodice, pleated chiffon maxi skirt
- Fabric: Polyester twill bustier; pleated chiffon skirt; stretch polyester lining
- Detail: Sculptural diagonal drape on bustier, full pleated chiffon skirt, back zip closure
- Sizing: UK 6 to 10
- Brand: Solace London
- Made in Italy
Why We Love It
The Claudette is Solace London at its most dramatic and multi-textural. The contrast between the structured twill bustier and the fluid pleated chiffon skirt is a design tension that is immediately apparent and gives the gown a layered, architectural quality that sets it apart from a standard black evening gown. The diagonal drape on the bustier is a particularly strong design detail that creates a beautiful, sculptural silhouette at the waist, and the full pleated chiffon skirt adds a sweep of movement and drama to the full-length silhouette.
Style Notes
The black colorway is the most versatile and seasonless entry for an evening gown, and the strapless silhouette is worth demonstrating during the fitting as the draped bustier creates a very different line depending on how it sits against the body. The pleated chiffon skirt is worth pointing out as a detail that adds significant movement and drama in motion. Worth presenting with minimal jewellery and a simple heel for clients building a complete black-tie or occasion look, allowing the sculptural bustier to remain the focal point.
