Medium: Silk

Date: 1974

Country: USA

Credit: Gift of Alva Chinn

When she began modeling in the early-1970s, Alva Chinn “had to deal with being told I wasn’t black enough. At first, they couldn’t slot me according to stereotypes.” Yet her unique look and natural grace made her a favorite of Halston, Oscar de la Renta, and Stephen Burrows – who designed the red dress shown here.

Object Number: 96.119.2