Basic Black

Black Rayon Satin Dress
1947-1952
Gift of Mary Caton

Fashion designer Christian Dior dubbed the post-war silhouette the "New Look". Garments had soft shoulders, pinched waists, and wide skirts, and were accessorized with small flowered hats and matching high heels, handbags, and gloves.

The wide skirts and soft shoulders were in contradiction to the padded shoulders, minimal material, and straight "military look" of the WWII years.