Cocktail dress
Brand
Samuel Winston
Designer
Charles James
(1906 - 1978)
1952-1954
Silk faille
Gift of Judy Wada and Edward Weisberger
Object number2010.27.1
Charles James constructed the bodice of this ready-to-wear dress using his “quartered torso” couture technique. Hand-appliquéd tassels enhance its novelty. From 1952-1954, James licensed his designs to Samuel Winston—until he sued the firm for creating unlicensed copies.
DescriptionBlack silk faille cocktail dress with hand appliquéd fringe tassels overall on skirt, fitted bodice with extreme seaming - arced empire princess panel at front sides, double bust darts at apex above princess seam, fitted waist seam, A-line skirt with round hip shape, built in pannier understructure made from quilted hair canvas and faille with tape and wire boning at lower hip, bandeau neckline with front pointed lapel collar and 3/4 length sleevesCollections
Exhibitions