Evening dress
Designer
Paul Poiret
(1879 - 1944)
1913
Mauve and ivory silk satin and seed beeds
Museum purchase
Object numberP81.8.1
While evolving his neoclassical styles, Poiret also explored various Orientalist themes. The costumes for his 1002nd Night party were Persian-inspired, and Mme Poiret wore harem trousers under a short hoop skirt. Her costume inspired the famous Sorbet gown of 1913 – with its lampshade tunic decorated with pearl embroidery in sherbet colors of pistachio, pink, and mauve.
DescriptionSorbet evening gown in mauve and ivory silk satin; empire bodice with above elbow length kimono sleeves and gathered lampshade overskirt with hoop hem, all with applied seed bead floral motifs in pink, lavender and green; draped tulip hem skirt in mauve satin over slim underskirt with mauve hem; attached pink sash with pink beaded and fringed tassel.Collections
Exhibitions