Cardin has characterised his designs thus: “Haute Couture is a creative laboratory where forms and volumes can be studied. The immensity of the universe and microscopy of the cell, computers and geometry: these are the sources of my inspiration. The garments I prefer are those I create for tomorrow’s world”. (Cat. Cardin 1990: preface) This body-hugging, loose waist dress in princess cut might also be a robe for “tomorrow”. The navel-deep neckline is rimmed by an eye-catching, sculptural stainless steel application that documents Cardin’s interest in technical innovations.