Coat

Maximilian

1972 · fur · Costume Institute

Despite its long history of use as a lining, trimming, and accessory, mink did not become fashionable as a coat until the 1950s. During that decade, mink-along with other appurtenances of wealth, such as elaborately coiffed hair, flawless makeup, and ostentatious jewelry-came to define the everlasting stereotype of the bourgeois woman. Mink came to be linked with fame, fortune, glamour, and stardom, an association that was underscored in Blackglama's award-winning advertising campaign: "What Becomes a Legend Most?" Lauren Bacall was the first star to pose for the campaign, receiving this coat by Maximilian as payment. Traditional in terms of style and construction, the mink coat's iconic status is enhanced by its identification with the actress herself.

Artist

Maximilian

Date

1972

Medium

fur

Culture

American

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Lauren Bacall, 1979