Designed by
Wynn, Zelda, American, 1905 - 2001
Worn by
Kitt, Eartha, American, 1927 - 2008
Subject of
Black Fashion Museum, American, 1979 - 2007
Date
ca. 1955
Medium
silk (textile) and plastic
Dimensions
L x W: 58 11/16 × 15 3/4 in. (149 × 40 cm)
Waist: 13 3/4 in. (35 cm)
Chest: 14 15/16 in. (38 cm)
Description
A crème-colored silk gown designed by Zelda Wynn for Eartha Kitt.
The one shoulder, floor-length silk gown features extensively beaded and multi-colored birds of paradise throughout. It was made with a combination of machine and hand-stitching. The bodice has one strap crossing the proper left shoulder, with sheered bias cut fabric embellishment at the bust and at the waist. At the waist, contrasting silk fabric in cream and emerald green is used in the sheered embellishment, forming a yolk at the hip. The skirt is narrow with high slit. The birds of paradise have been printed on the silk fabric with seed beads and rhinestones added over the print. The bodice is interfaced with plain woven fabric, with two small loops for hanging at either side. There is a concealed white plastic zipper at the left side of the waist. A cream-colored satin Zelda Wynn trademark tag is sewn on the interior of the dress.
Place made
New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
Collection title
Black Fashion Museum Collection
Classification
Clothing - Fashion and Historical
Clothing - Costume
Type
dresses
Topic
Actors
Clothing and dress
Craftsmanship
Design
Fashion
Fashion design
Singers (Musicians)
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of the Black Fashion Museum founded by Lois K. Alexander-Lane
Object number
2007.3.163
Restrictions & Rights
Unknown - Restrictions Possible
Rights assessment and proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5f4b4a5af-fd5d-443e-a52b-f628aa9a0760

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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