Safeguarded by the National Trust of Guernsey, these iconic garments form a unique part of its costume collection. Dame de Havilland died aged 104 on 26 July, so the exhibit commemorates the actress’s life and ties to Guernsey with images displayed of her at Sausmarez Manor.
Museum manager Merrie Jee said ‘both dresses are haute couture, custom made and top of the range, with all the corsetry stitched inside.
‘They would be quite uncomfortable on anybody except her since they were made to fit.’
Demonstrating polished attention to detail, the bust underwiring in the monochrome dress is lined with velvet.
Ties with Dior began with the 1956 film The Ambassador’s Daughter.
‘Dame de Havilland was related to the Sausmarez family, including Cecil de Sausmarez, a founding member of the trust.
‘Her Guernsey roots came out as she fought for fair contracts in Hollywood, aiding actors and women’s rights in Hollywood. She never took no for an answer.’
At nearly 60 years old, the one-of-a-kind dresses are irreplaceable.
‘Cecil had two daughters who were given the dresses for dress-up. Her whole wardrobe was haute couture, so she wouldn’t have thought anything of it.’
Periodically, similar Dior pieces are auctioned. ‘Last year she hosted one, which we followed closely. Dior bought all of them for their heritage collection. It is a miracle we have these in Guernsey.’
n The Folk and Costume Museum’s opening hours are 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday, and 11am-3pm Sunday. Entry is £6 for adults, £4 OAP and students, £2 children and free for under sevens.
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