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75.69.3

75.69.3

Object: Cocktail dress
Retailer: (American, founded 1924)
Date: Fall 1953
Medium: Black silk faille, rhinestones, and spangles
Country: USA
Credit Line: Gift of Sophie Gimbel
Object number: 75.69.3
DescriptionNew Look cocktail dress in black silk faille embroidered with undulating bands of rhinestones and star shaped spangles; small shawl collar variation, fitted bodice with long dolman sleeves and zipper front, 12 gore circle skirt
Label Text:The hourglass shape of this dress stands in sharp contrast to the masculine edge of wartime styles. The exaggerated feminine silhouette coincided with renewed social emphasis on women’s traditional charms and domestic roles. As Barbara Schreier put it, “the new silhouette replaced the angles with curves and sanctioned the ornamental function of women.”

Exhibitions:
  • Fashion & Politics
  • Force of Nature