c. 1930 Purple and Rhinestone Evening Gown, backless

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This purple and beige silk evening dress with beaded cowl neck bodice was donated by Thomas DeLong and his wife, Katherine (née Clark). The couple was married at St. Marks Episcopal church in 1968. Katherine grew up in New Canaan on Wahackme Road, and attended New Canaan Country School. Thomas A. Delong was an author who wrote books such as “John Davis Lodge: A Life in 3 Acts.”

Silk was a popular choice for women’s evening wear in the 1930s, due to its ability to cling to the figure and accentuate her natural curves. Bias cut gowns took center stage for formal wear, and plunging backless gowns were the essence of chic. Art Deco elements were integrated into fashion, an example of which you can still see in the faint scrolling motifs of contrasting rhinestones along the dip of the bodice at the waist of this purple evening gown. The back of the dress is completed by two ribbons of purple silk stretching down to the floor to mimic a small train.

The original video was created May 14, 2023.