Evening dress
Brand
Paco Rabanne
(French, founded 1966)
Designer
Paco Rabanne
(1934 - 2023)
c. 1970
Black crepe and chain mail
Gift of Mrs. Iris Apfel
Object number95.173.1
Experimental designer Paco Rabanne was a forerunner in the manipulation of metal elements in fashion. With this ensemble, Rabanne references metalwork of the medieval period, when soldiers wore protective, interlocking chainmail armor. Rabanne’s chainmail harness, paired with a close-fitting tunic-style dress, seduces rather than protects, by drawing the eye to the bust and pelvis.
DescriptionFloor length evening dress in black crepe with multicolor chain mail harness which goes over the shoulders, breast and hooks at CB; large fringe at CF hanging from chain; deep semi-sweetheart neckline and long sleeves; CB slitCollections
Exhibitions