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Woman's dress
Designed by: Gianni Versace (Italian, 1946–1997)
Italian
1980s
Medium/Technique
Metallic mesh and cotton plain-weave
Dimensions
Center back: 91.4 cm (36 in.)
Credit Line
Museum purchase with funds donated by the Fashion Council, Museum of Fine Arts Boston
Accession Number2007.282
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope, Contemporary Art, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsCostumes
Gianni Versace is one of the most well-known designers of the 1980s and 1990s. He was celebrated for his sexy and creative clothing, which was often worn by celebrities and models. Early in his career he became interested in working with a softly draping metallic mesh. During the late 1970s and early 1980s he created classically-inspired dresses such as this "gladiator" dress, which plays off the animal-print metallic fabric as both alluring and as a kind of pseudo-protective armor. Versace continued to return to this fabric throughout his career.
DescriptionTiger print metal chain linked toga mini dress with black cotton lining, gold synthetic trim along edges, and criss-cross straps on the back. Labeled: "Gianni Versace/ Made in Italy/ 42"
ProvenancePurchased privately in Los Angeles, CA in 2005 by Decades, Inc.; Purchased by MFA March 21, 2007