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Woman's Carnivale inspired gown
Woman's gown in two parts
Woman's Carnivale inspired gown
Designed by: Christian Lacroix (French, born in 1951)
French
Spring-Summer 1993
Medium/Technique
Silk
Credit Line
Frank B. Bemis Fund
Accession Number2006.1183.1-2
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope, Contemporary Art, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsCostumes
Since his dramatic debut in the 1980s, Christian Lacroix has ensured his place as one of the most original talents working in haute couture. This evening gown reveals the designer's brilliance at blending disparate shapes, colors, textures, and ornaments. The faux block-print pattern of the silk blouse is reminiscent of European folk embroideries, the romantic style of its cut suggesting gypsy costume. A long, asymmetrical skirt in bold black-and-white horizontal stripes and a black silk waistband embroidered in a folk-inspired pattern complete the ensemble. The result is a signature Lacroix look-sophisticated, with a sense of opulence and whimsy.
DescriptionRed silk blouse with black block print in primitive abstract motif overall, draped from drop shoulder to center front deep V-neckline with zipper closure, full elbow length sleeves with ties at the cuffs. Labeled: "Christian Lacroix/Paris/9071." Single seamed skirt of wide horizontal black and ivory stripes in basket weave silk gazar, with a crinoline lining. The asymmetrically draped cummerbund waistband is worked in polychrome silk threads with Peruvian style motifs. Labeled: "Christian Lacroix/Paris/9071"
Provenance1993, Christian Lacroix Haute Couture; 1994, sold by Christian Lacroix to a private collection, France. April 11, 2006, anonymous sale, Doyle, New York, Lot 145, to the MFA. (Accession Date: May 24, 2006)