"Pennsylvania Dutch"

Gilbert Adrian

1947 · rayon · Costume Institute

In an interview with Vogue, Adrian commented that this dress had been designed "purely for prettiness, for the big romantic moments." Eighteenth-century à l'americaine is referenced in the use of quilted white taffeta trimmed with gingham appliqués. Madame du Barry's panniers have joined at the waist to form an oversized apron on which is depicted a gingham "Tree of Life" motif, with Adam and Eve and a pet dog in the Garden of Eden. The humble elements of gingham and the American quilt have been transformed into an evening dress that Adrian felt was "not significant of a trend, but never out of fashion." Although stated casually, this remark was central to Adrian's design philosophy. His garments were designed never to go out of fashion.

Artist

Gilbert Adrian

Date

1947

Medium

rayon

Culture

American

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Gilbert Adrian, 1948