c. 1994

Woman's Evening Dress and Flower

Although a pioneer of designer ready-to-wear and brand licensing, Pierre Cardin relishes the creativity of couture. He also designs furniture and buildings, saying he imagines clothes like architecture and architecture like clothing. This gown incorporates many striking contrasts: black and cream coloring; dense, open, and shiny fabrics; asymmetry; and structured and draped elements. Dramatic but harmonious, it demonstrates Cardin’s inventiveness and technical flair.