Medium: Red silk satin, horsehair and silk taffeta

Date: Fall 1955

Country: USA

Credit: Gift of Barbara Torelli

James Galanos' work has always been characterized by a deceptively simple elegance. He was especially fond of creating versions of the perfect Little Black Dress, but he was also a masterful colorist, as can be seen in this ravishingly beautiful, red silk satin cocktail dress. Galanos' meticulous attention to detail is evident in the cut and construction of the dress, from its flirtatious side pleats and décolletage to the hidden, bell-shaped crinoline half-slip of horsehair and taffeta. His choice of the perfect lipstick red color is equally premeditated, giving the dress an unexpected shot of sex appeal.

Object Number: 95.65.1