Tea gown
c. 1931
Silk velvet
Gift of L. Graham Patmore
Object number74.93.3
Magazines promoted an elaborate array of fashions for entertaining during the 1920s and 1930s. Velvet was suggested for hosting afternoon tea, cocktail parties, and intimate dinners. The dramatic train of this dress is rivaled by its sleeves, which are open at the back. The openings not only create visual interest, but also enhance mobility.
DescriptionWrap tea gown in dark red silk velvet; bateau neckline with hooked slit at center back; floor length front is attached to silk crepe back panel which hooks at center back waist to form skirt; back panel which is a continuation of front panel has long self sashes at hip level to wrap over front panel and tie with loop; back panel continues into round train; open sleeves are formed from shoulder extensions of panel and additional piece which is snapped snuggly at wrist with point on back of handCollections
Exhibitions