Mysterious 1930s Red Velvet Evening Gown

This c.1930s dress was donated to our museum in 1996 by Mrs. Marilyn Isler of Norwalk, Connecticut. Marilyn Isler was the executive director of the New Canaan Inn for many years. She was married to Rev. Richard D. Isler and had three children. She eventually retired in Claremont, California. The identity of who wore this dress is unknown.

The c. 1930 gown is made of burgundy velvet with a beaded net back and cape-like sleeves. Following the 1920s, women’s fashion transitioned from a boyish look to a more feminine silhouette. This dress showcases these new trends with its floor-length skirt and a natural waistline to emphasize the wearer’s figure. The back of the dress is covered by a burgundy lace net with a keyhole slit and fastened with a bedazzled rhinestone button. The net is embroidered with silver sequins to emulate lace, and falls across the arms like a capelet.

At the waist are two velvet straps that presumably tie in a bow- although whether to the front or side we could not figure out. One strap is longer than the other and the presence of a heavy bow pulls at the fabric of the dress in an awkward way.