81.48.2

Images (4)

RetroSpective_44 Left to right 89.198.2 (dress hidden), 2010.64.1 (tape measure dress), 73.1.1007 (textile case), 87.119.6 (belt case), P93.12.5 (textile wall), 88.25.3 (paper dress hidden), 99.91.1 (paper dress), 2005.58.2 (denim and black dress), 81.48.2 (chain mail dress), 80.200.4, 2010.68.1 (bags case), 88.12.1 (suit), 2005.23.1 (dress), 85.84.2 (leggings), 2004.42.3B (textile wall), 93.70.1 (ensemble), 98.59.4, 89.69.24 (shoes case), 2013.6.1 (ensemble)

Object: Evening dress

Brand: Paco Rabanne (French, founded 1966)

Designer: Paco Rabanne (1934 - 2023)

Date: c. 1968

Medium: Plastic and metal

Country: France

Credit Line: Gift of Montgomery Ward

Object number: 81.48.2

DescriptionLong chain mail dress of white, pearlescent and sliver plastic rectangles linked by metal loops; sleeveless, deep square front neck and plunging V-back

Label Text:This example of Paco Rabanne's "chain mail" designs was intended as a wedding dress for an ultra-modern bride. Surprisingly sleek, this maxi-length gown with a deep, V-back is constructed of white, silver, and pearlescent plastic rectangles linked by metal loops. Rabanne experimented with new and unusual fabrics perhaps more than any other 1960s designer, and he developed an early interest in non-woven materials while designing plastic jewelry and buttons.

Exhibitions:

Love & War: The Weaponized Woman
RetroSpective
Expedition: Fashion from the Extreme