Evening ensemble

Elsa Schiaparelli|Saks Fifth Avenue

1939 · wool, silk, rayon, metallic thread, glass, plastic · Costume Institute

Schiaparelli's lavishly embroidered jackets, in the tradition of 18th century dressmaking, served to denote the social status of their wearers. During the mid- to late-1930s, her dinner suit became the badge of the well-dressed woman, and her well-heeled clients included the Duchess of Windsor and the Honorable Mrs. Reginald Fellowes.

Artist

Elsa Schiaparelli|Saks Fifth Avenue

Date

1939

Medium

wool, silk, rayon, metallic thread, glass, plastic

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Julia B. Henry, 1978