Evening ensemble
From an early age, James Galanos knew he was destined to be a fashion designer. Unlike his peers, he chose to build his career in Los Angeles, rather than New York's Seventh Avenue. He is recognized for his exquisite ready-to-wear pieces that are characteristically couture, as they are as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside. With his extreme attention to detail and talent with luxurious fabrics, most notably silk chiffon, he created masterpieces worn by ladies of society, actresses, and former presidential lady, Nancy Reagan.
This evening ensemble is an interesting juxtaposition in the use of blanket plaid, traditionally for casual wear, for evening wear. The plaids of the jacket are meticulously matched, showing the amount of detail taken while creating this garment, and the cream wool sheath, though simple in silhouette, is finely finished. The combination of both pieces, complement each other, making it a handsome evening ensemble.
This evening ensemble is an interesting juxtaposition in the use of blanket plaid, traditionally for casual wear, for evening wear. The plaids of the jacket are meticulously matched, showing the amount of detail taken while creating this garment, and the cream wool sheath, though simple in silhouette, is finely finished. The combination of both pieces, complement each other, making it a handsome evening ensemble.
Artwork Details
- Title: Evening ensemble
- Designer: James Galanos (American, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1924–2016 West Hollywood, California)
- Department Store: Evelyn Byrnes (American, founded 1956)
- Date: fall/winter 1972–73
- Culture: American
- Medium: wool
- Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Alexandra A. Herzan from the Collection of Lily Auchincloss, 1996
- Object Number: 2009.300.599a, b
- Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute
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James Galanos
1967
James Galanos
ca. 1970
James Galanos
1966
James Galanos
1965
James Galanos
ca. 1969
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