Artwork Details
L: 57 in.
Mark DescriptionBill Blass
Accession NumberGift of Mrs. Ronald Reagan and Bill Blass
CopyrightBill Blass, New York (designer); Nancy Davis Reagan (born Anne Frances Robbins), [1921-2016]; through Bill Blass William Ralph "Bill" Blass (June 22, 1922 June 12, 2002); given to Indianapolis Museum of Art in 1982.
First Lady Nancy Reagan originally wore this evening dress on May 7, 1981, at a state dinner for Zenko Suzuki, the prime minister of Japan, and his wife, Sachi Suzuki. The gown was worn again on the occasion of the first state dinner for the then-new president of Egypt, Hosni Mubarak, and his wife, Suzanne Mubarak, on February 3, 1982. It was donated to the IMA later that year.
One of Mrs. Reagan’s favorite designers, Blass was renowned for his ability to cleverly combine unexpected textures in luxurious eveningwear. By juxtaposing delicate chiffon and lustrous taffeta, both dyed “Reagan” red, Blass created a dress that perfectly captures the popular silhouette of the 1980s. The large pouf sleeves created a dramatic yet slimming effect, while the large bow at the waistline added balance to Mrs. Reagan’s petite frame.
Exhibition Name
Venue
Dates
An American Legacy: Norell, Blass, Halston & Sprouse
Indianapolis Museum of Art
May 4, 2012 - January 27, 2013
Fabrics in Celebration - From the Collection
Indianapolis Museum of Art
September 7, 1983 - October 23, 1983
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