Evening ensemble, American, 1958 Designed by Arnold Scaasi, American, born in 1930, Worn by Arlene Francis, American, 1907—2001, MFA Boston
Evening ensemble, American, 1958 Designed by Arnold Scaasi, American, born in 1930 Worn by Arlene Francis, American, 1907—2001, MFAb
hmm. dress is a nice cut, though the bow’s a little too long. and the robe is too nightgown robe-ish for me. not a match made in heaven. lovely fabric, but the robe needs a new cut, perhaps a scalloped short cape would have been more pleasing with the dress-or a draped shawl. and rather than a car sales bow, a thin trim of red around the edges and hem of the dress or a red drape off the waist. maybe a loose, low hung swath of red fabric gathered up in a large, cascading bow down the back? with small red bows on the shoulders, very simple and reserved, not big and flashy. just the drape at the waist is truly all that’s needed-simple decor on a simple pattern. a draped shawl would echo and mirror the drape at the waist.
sadly, for me the robe plumets this ensemble down to 6, the dress and fabric saves the plunge and pushes it up to a wobbly 7 1/2 for being nicely cut (dress)/poorly cut (robe), tasteful, yet overstated and garrish. too intense with the red, tone it down a bit-quite a bit.
Absolutely Stunning “make a statement” ensemble! The bow actually
is PERFECT! …drama…drama!! draws attention to the decolletage and tiny waist. LESS is always BEST!!