Evening dress
Designer
Sophie Gimbel
(1898 - 1981)
Retailer
Saks Fifth Avenue
(American, founded 1924)
c. 1950
Black velvet, lace, net, and pink taffeta
Gift of Mrs. Thayer Gilpatric
Object number86.133.1
Sophie was known for slender, graceful silhouettes that emphasized feminine curves. This black velvet dress is inlaid with lace, highlighting the designer’s dynamic use of sheer fabrics. Known as “Sophie of Saks,” she was the renowned in-house designer of the Salon Moderne at Saks Fifth Avenue. Initially sold alongside French couture, the popularity of Sophie’s original designs was such that, by the 1940s, they were the only fashions available at the Salon.
DescriptionEvening gown with cap sleeves, fitted bodice and long flared skirt, in black velvet with large cut-outs inset with black lace; coordinating petticoat in black net over pink taffeta and horsehairExhibitions