Dress
Brand
Valentino
(Italian, founded 1960)
c. 1999
Silk, rhinestones, and beads
Gift of Darcy Davisson Rigas
Object number2021.53.24
The cap sleeve began to appear in fashion magazines during the 1930s, where it was typically suggested for semiformal attire. Although cap sleeves are defined by their brevity—covering only part of the shoulders and upper arms—Valentino’s cocktail dress highlights how they can nonetheless become the focal point of a design.
DescriptionBlack cocktail dress, rhinestone and bead encrusted cap sleeves and attached center belt with matching rhinestone and bead faux buckle, bust darts, flounced skirt gathered at hip line, silk lined bodiceCollections
Exhibitions