CHICAGO, IL.- Hindman’s Spring Fashion: A Century of Couture auction realized over $415,000, more than double its presale estimate, and saw outstanding international bidder engagement. The auction presented trademarks of fashion history, from the start of the 20th century to the cutting edge of contemporary avant-garde. Fashion by Charles James, Chanel, and Hermès sold for top prices and 99 percent of all lots sold. Designers featured in the sale also included Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent, and Pierre Cardin, among others.

Highlighting the sale was a sculptural Charles James gown (lot 5) which soared past its presale estimate of $1,500-$3,500 to achieve $12,500. The dress is an exceptional piece that dates from the 1940s and anticipates the structured, bold tailoring of Dior’s New Look of 1947. James is well known for his complex and articulated designs and for the use of innovative sartorial techniques, some of which he pioneered. His creations continue to inspire designers today.

Strong prices were achieved for a range of Hermès handbags. An Hermès white leather Kelly bag (lot 274) saw enthusiastic bidding and ultimately realized $11,250, more than double its presale estimate. An Hermès dark brown leather Kelly bag (lot 271) also received exceptional interest and surpassed its presale estimate of $2,000-4,000, ultimately selling for $8,750. Other Hermès pieces that realized excellent results included a Kelly Ado backpack (lot 273) and a black leather Kelly bag (lot 270), which realized $7,040 and $6,875, respectively.

Chanel items also received excellent engagement. Three quilted Chanel bags (lot 41) – one green, one purple, and one blue – saw strong competition from bidders and realized $8,960, over 15 times the presale estimate. Four jackets by Chanel (lot 34) were also among top performers, achieving $8,125, far above its presale estimate of $400-600.

Other notable sales included an Oscar de la Renta printed lamb fur coat trimmed with sable (lot 140) which sold for $6,875 against a presale estimate of $600-800. A group of Fendi bags (lot 292) also exceeded their estimate, realizing $5,440 against a presale estimate of $400-500.

Bidding for the March 18 auction was available live online through Hindman’s recently launched Digital Bid Room – an online and mobile bidding platform – and LiveAuctioneers.com. Hindman is now inviting consignments for upcoming 2021 Couture & Luxury Accessories auctions.