Remember this iconic look? Of course you do (3 photos)

Poor Pierre Richard had no idea what his co-star Mireille Darc's dress would look like in the 1972 comedy The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe. So when he saw it, his surprise, admiration, and jaw-dropping reaction weren't acted at all—they were 100% genuine.





For this breathtaking creation, we have fashion designer Guy Laroche to thank. At the time, he was dating Darc and created the dress specifically for her.

Some might argue Laroche wasn't the pioneer of the low-backed gown—back in the 1950s, model and actress Vikki Dougan (nicknamed "The Back," and one of the inspirations for Jessica Rabbit along with Veronica Lake) was already turning heads in them.

To that, I’d remind you of Fidji, the iconic fragrance turning 60 years old, around since 1966. Someone once famously remarked: "A woman is an island; Fidji is her fragrance." And that, too, was a Laroche creation.

So why bring all this up?

Guy Laroche was born on July 16, 1921, making this a major milestone anniversary.

So let's raise a glass to the master designer and admire these photos of his iconic work.



From the front, the dress looks remarkably conservative—black woolen knit, long sleeves, and a high stand-up collar. Its defining feature is revealed only when she turns around: an extraordinarily deep backless cut extending well below the waistline, partially exposing her buttocks.

To keep the dress structured and prevent the fabric from gaping, the designer connected the edges with a delicate gold chain.

Mireille Darc later donated the gown to the French state. Today, it is recognized as a French national treasure and is preserved at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris (some sources cite the Louvre, as the museum is part of its sprawling complex).