Evening ensemble
Brand
Bill Blass
(American, founded 1970)
Designer
Bill Blass
(1922 - 2002)
1984
Red cashmere and silk satin
Gift of Bill Blass, Ltd.
Object number85.91.1
Bill Blass lengthened the cashmere cardigan, an American sportswear staple, and then unexpectedly turned it backward to create the long, columnar torso of this evening ensemble. The low folds of a silk satin skirt balance Blass' creation, which with its bold color, unusual styling, and luxurious fabrics captures the high drama of 1980s fashion - yet does so without sacrificing Blass' trademark breezy elegance.
Blass had a knack for appropriating elements of menswear and sportswear into his designs, creating confident, chic, and comfortable clothing. "The clothes always had a really American cool look," recalled socialite Nan Kempner in Blass' autobiography. "Glamour he gave, but it was the easiest kind,"
DescriptionEvening sweater in red cashmere knit; reverse cardigan with open round front neck, V-neck and buttons in back, padded shoulders, long sleeves, elongated to knee, square patch pockets. Long skirt in red silk satin with full flounce gathered at knee level into seam of deep hip yoke. High heel evening pumps in red silk satin, with rounded point toe. Red leather wrist-length gloves.Collections
Exhibitions