Afternoon dress
Brand
The House of Worth
(French, 1858 - 1956)
1903
Purple silk velvet, chenille fringe, and ivory chiffon
Gift of Mary Elizabeth Fogarty
Object number67.127.1
By virtue of its "imperial" purple velvet and long train, this gown conveys a message of exalted status. Prior to the development of synthetic dyes, purple was expensive to produce, and its use was restricted by sumptuary laws.
DescriptionReception gown in purple silk velvet with chenille fringe and tassels; Boned bodice with attached fichu and undersleeves, long bell sleeves tucked from shoulder to cut-out cuff, pleated chiffon back with pointed waist; Long skirt with cascading fringe, pleated back with trainCollections
Exhibitions