Evening dress

John Cavanagh

1959 · Dacron, Lurex · Costume Institute

John Cavanagh opened his own couture house in London in 1952, after working for both Edward Molyneux and Pierre Balmain. From his designs, it is obvious that he has incorporated the techniques he learned at these two houses into his creations. Perhaps, he is most known for his "Coronation" collection, designed in 1953 and worn by Lady Cornwallis to the Coronation celebrations. The gown featured here has an overall striking appearance and is made of exceptional fabric. The dramatic silhouette is obviously inspired by historicism, as Cavanagh has incorporated the Watteau back to the dress.

Artist

John Cavanagh

Date

1959

Medium

Dacron, Lurex

Culture

British

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Herbert Meyer, 1959