Cocktail ensemble

Christian Dior|House of Dior

fall/winter 1956–57 · silk · Costume Institute

Emphasis on a nipped waist was the primary characteristic of Christian Dior's designs. No matter which silhouette he chose, the slim sheath or the bouffant skirt, the narrow waist recurs in nearly every garment. In some garments, a contrast of proportions makes the waist appear smaller. In others, hip padding or a self belt heightens the effect. This day ensemble features another Dior hallmark, the cropped jacket, to create the same look. Paired with a box-pleated skirt, the jacket skims the waist, accentuating the hourglass shape.

Artist

Christian Dior|House of Dior

Date

fall/winter 1956–57

Medium

silk

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Gustave Gilbert, 1968