Fashion Nerds

The Metropolitan Museum of Art; Gift of Mrs. Giorgio Uzielli, 1984. Object record

Ball gown

ca. 1951

Materials

silk, glass, metal, plastic, rhinestones, mink

House / label

House of Jacques Fath

Collection

ca. 1951

Archive reference

1984.606.3a, b

Behind the design

Fath set an extended outer bodice above a pale satin inner section in this ball gown from about 1951. The Met emphasizes its contrasts of black and ivory, matte and reflective surfaces, and rich ornament. The angular top creates a sculptural frame above the long, dark skirt.

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