Object: Coat
Brand:
Balenciaga
(French, founded 1937)
Designer:
Cristóbal Balenciaga
(1895 - 1972)
Date: Fall 1950
Medium: Wool duvetyn
Country: France
Credit Line: Gift of Doris Duke
Object number: 72.81.23
DescriptionThe Scarf Coat in beige wool duvetine, short clutch coat draped with deep side tucks from shoulder, along outer sleeve to cuff of 3/4 length batwing sleeve; deep side slits; couture
Label Text:The simplicity of Balenciaga's most innovative designs is perfectly realized in this garment. The visible folds are formed and anchored to a ribbon that runs inside the upper part of each sleeve, from the neckline to cuff, and the folds are tacked to the ribbon at approximately four inch intervals. Despite its dramatic effect, the construction is a simple manipulation of the most basic of garment shapes, the T-shaped kimono. Its striking silhouette no doubt worked beautifully on the tall and angular body of the client, infamous tobacco heiress, Doris Duke.
Exhibitions:
- 50 Years of Fashion, 1947 - 1997
- Dior + Balenciaga: The Kings of Couture and Their Legacies
- Fashion & Textile History Gallery First Rotation