Object: Evening gown
Date: c. 1940
Medium: Rayon crepe, lace, and taffeta
Country: USA
Credit Line: Gift of Jean R. Fitzhugh
Object number: 83.15.1
DescriptionGown; black rayon crepe and black lace; round neck; multiple diagonal darts at left shoulder; right shoulder lace bodice; diagonal dart on bias bodice with fitted waist and asymmetrical drop waist; full flared lace skirt with diagonal bands of blue and pink taffeta; drop shoulder sleeveless; multiple starburst darts at left shoulder front; sunburst pin tucks at left side waist; black taffeta attached petticoat; left side zipper and right shoulder snap closing
Label Text:Hallmarks of early 1940s eveningwear included diagonal lines, accentuated shoulders, and black lace. This dress incorporates each of those elements, yet its construction is unexpected. Small “sleeves” are formed by the drop shoulders, and the lace over the right side transforms a visible shoulder pad into a decorative feature.
In Collection(s)
Exhibitions:
- Statement Sleeves