Medium: Blue and burgandy silk radzimir

Date: Fall 1987

Country: USA

Credit: Gift of Calvin Klein, Inc.

Contrasting colors embellish and highlight the female form in Calvin Klein's two piece evening dress, a contemporary version of the classic ball gown that is reminiscent of elegant, 1950s eveningwear. A striking, ruby red bodice with a sculpted portrait neckline is given added emphasis by the rich, but more subdued, blue-violet skirt and opera gloves. While Klein's bold use of eccentric color and exaggerated proportion are in keeping with the "excess" of 1980s fashion, he nonetheless reinforces the idea that simplicity and purity are the essence of great style.

Object Number: 98.34.5