Fantouche – Ian Stuart

In the early days, Ian Stuart dresses didn't have names - just codes. So I've named this ensemble Fantouche which means flashily dressed, overly ornate or high-fashion in Scottish usage (where it is often spelled fantoosh.) I think it's a worthy name for this dress and jacket. 

This original Ian Stuart couture dress is all about understated elegance. The silhouette is slim, minimalist and effortlessly chic – skimming the figure without fuss or frills. If Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy had been dress shopping in Aberdeen, she might have snapped this dress up.

The beauty of the dress is in the cut: clean lines, flawless drape, and a quiet confidence that feels as modern now as it did the first time around. She’s a proper “cool-girl” bridal look – think Kate Moss meets effortless sophistication.

But it's the matching ostrich feather-strewn jacket with its bell sleeves, covered button and bow fastening that steals the show. I can also imagine just the jacket for pre wedding boudoir or getting ready shots. The length of the jacket from the nape of the neck to the hem is 19".

Preloved but in excellent condition (you’d hardly know she’s ever been worn), Fantouche is ready for her next chapter. And I'll be crying buckets when she goes!