Back to search results

EVENING DRESS

Creator(s): Unknown

Currently in storage


About this object

This bias-cut, low-back, fitted-waist evening dress eloquently illustrates fashionable women’s wear from the early 1930s. The bows at the back are loosely inspired by the Japanese obi, traditionally worn at the waist of the kimono. With 48.70, these dresses are referred to as "twins," or repeated designs in a variety of fabrics and color schemes. In many cases, Mrs. Post had small details changed on dresses of similar design. Here, capped sleeves were added to the dress to conceal the shoulder straps. The pattern of the printed silk taffeta reflects the influence of contemporary abstract painting on textile design.

Bias-cut, low back, fitted waist evening dress in a gray and white fern pattern. The bodice front is constructed from two overlapping panels creating a V-neck at center. Decorative cap sleeves have been added to the thin shoulder straps. The gown closes in center back with a series of hooks and bars. A bow and long ties at back waist, loosely inspired by the Japanese obi, is lined in red taffeta. The skirt attaches to bodice high under bust at a slight point and is intricately cut using both bias and straight grain construction. Fitted through the waist and hips, the skirt flares at bottom to a circular hem in front and a slight train with three sharp, angled points in back. The gown is unlined. The printed silk taffeta reflects the influence of modernist abstract painting on textile design.

Object name:
EVENING DRESS
Made from:
Silk taffeta
Made in:
USA
Date made:
1934-1936
Size:
H. 16 in. (shoulder to waist front); H. 17 in. (shoulder to waist back); Dia. 27 3/4 in. (waist circumference); H. 46 in. (waist to hem front); H. 50 in. (waist to hem back); Dia. 184 in. (hem circumference)

Detailed information for this item

Catalog number:
48.69
Signature marks:
Credit line:
Bequest of Marjorie Merriweather Post, 1973