Classic 1960s Chanel suits set for auction adorned a socialite whose style is enriching a London fashion exhibition.
A Chanel ouTfit that belonged to the late Sara Tauba Klagsbrun, known as Tosia, is currently on display at the Victoria & Albert Museum’s Gabrielle Chanel fashion exhibition.
Her daughter said: “Mum had many outfits made specially for her by top fashion houses including Chanel, Norman Hartnell and Christian Dior. The dress she wore to her 90th birthday celebration was made by Jacques Azagury. In her latter years she loved to wear Italian luxury brand Missoni. Until she died at nearly 102 years of age she remained very a la mode.
“The fact that one of mum’s Chanel outfits is in the V&A museum for posterity is a fitting tribute to a remarkable lady.”
Now an opportunity to purchase a piece of Tosia’s style has come along thanks to wardrobe discoveries. A tweed 1960s Chanel jacket and skirt, estimate £800-£1,200 (lot 234), and a Chanel skirt and jacket in hot pink, estimate £300-£500 (lot 235), will be offered at auction house Hansons London on Saturday, December 9.
Their experts uncovered the Chanel classics following a valuation enquiry from Tosia’s daughter who was clearing the contents of her mother’s home in Regents Park, London.
Chris Kirkham, associate director of Hansons London, said: “We’re grateful to her for bringing these important design classics to our attention. These elegant Chanel outfits sweep us back to the glamour of the swinging 60s. For anyone fond of vintage clothing it’s a wonderful opportunity to purchase a Chanel original with provenance.
“Tosia led a fascinating life. She was born in Tarnow, Poland, in 1920. Due to anti-Semitism, the family moved to Belgium. At school, she was asked to change her name to a less Jewish sounding one. She chose to be called Antoinette and was known to family and friends as Tosia.
“She enjoyed a happy childhood but in May 1940, aged only 19, fled to England – much of it on foot – to escape the Second World War Nazi invasion. She lived in Regents Park, London, and passed away at the the flat that became her home for 70 years.
“As far back as our client can remember, Tosia was stylish and elegant. We hope fashionistas will come out in force to bid. These Chanel suits deserve to be worn and admired again.”
Other rare clothing in the December 9 auction includes a black leather jacket worn by Elton John, £350-£450, lot 233. Labelled ‘Claude Montana pour Ideal Cuir, Made in Paris, France’ it comes with provenance having previously sold at Sotheby’s.
Bidders can also buy a one-off Thomas Roberts Mr Freedom label suit worn on stage by former Jethro Tull bass guitarist John Glascock (1951-1979, £800-£1,000, lot 226. Thomas Roberts (1942 -2012) was an English designer and fashion entrepreneur who operated prominent independent retail outlets including pop art boutique Mr Freedom. His shops sold designs worn on stage by Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, Mick Jagger and David Bowie.
Auction: All items will be offered by Hansons London on December 9.
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
Enquiries: [email protected]
Chanel Exhibition: London’s Victoria & Albert Museum is hosting exhibition Gabrielle Chanel.Fashion Manifesto until February 25, 2024. It features features more than 200 looks by the French couturière.
