Mexico, cocktail dress
1954 {H line, autumn-winter 1954–55}
Medium
silk (faille, velvet), metallic thread, sequins
Measurements
135.0 cm (centre back) 29.0 cm (waist, flat)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Mrs Krystyna Campbell-Pretty in memory of Mr Harold Campbell-Pretty, 2015
© Christian Dior Couture
Gallery location
Level 3, NGV International
About this work
The exaggerated volume of this gown shows a favoured design device of Christian Dior’s. It was created by the atelier using multiple layers of tulle. The high bustline is accentuated by the placement of the plush velvet bow and helps to reinforce the elongated silhouette that underpinned Dior’s collection for 1951. The exquisite, graduated hand embroidery mimics the repeated forms of a crescent moon reflected on the water.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
France
Inscription
label, right seamline, woven in white on black silk/cotton: CHRISTIAN DIOR / PARIS
Accession Number
2015.613
Department
International Fashion and Textiles
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of Professor AGL Shaw AO Bequest