Woman's Cocktail Dress

Currently not on view

Woman's Cocktail Dress

c. 1961

Roman couturier Emilio Schuberth emphasized this dress’s hourglass shape with garlands of self-fabric flowers and beaded leaves. The white and metallic beads of some leaves are placed on edge to form Vs, adding to the decoration’s three-dimensionality. The construction of the dress is planned as carefully as the decoration: the seemingly simple cut is shaped by darts, a stiff nylon lining, and a crinoline. A favorite of movie stars such as Gina Lollobrigida and Sophia Loren, Schuberth was known for his exquisitely crafted, ultrafeminine clothing.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Woman's Cocktail Dress

Date:

c. 1961

Artist:

Medium:

Silk faille with self trim, glass bugle beads, and cellulose acetate velvet ribbon

Dimensions:

Center Back Length: 31 1/2 inches (80 cm) Waist: 22 inches (55.9 cm) Circumference (Skirt hem): 6 feet 11 1/2 inches (212.1 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Mrs. Jack M. Friedland, 1972

Accession Number:

1972-188-2

Geography:

Made in Italy, Europe

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Currently not on view