Ensemble
In this evening ensemble by Halston, a double-tiered cape functions in the same way as the classical himation. The cape is composed of several layers and many yards of silk chiffon. With its allusion to the regular folds of antique dress, the pleating consumes an especially large amount of fabric. The simply constructed cape could be worn in a variety of ways, but it always provides decorous coverage for the bare gown beneath. Pleated, the travertine colored halter gown with a plunging neckline and completely bared back is essentially a fluted Greek column.
Artwork Details
- Title: Ensemble
- Designer: Halston (American, Des Moines, Iowa 1932–1990 San Francisco, California)
- Date: 1974
- Culture: American
- Medium: silk
- Credit Line: Gift of Hillie (Mrs. David) Mahoney, 1996
- Object Number: 1996.498.2a, b
- Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute
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