Evening dress and capelet
Kay Selig
ca. 1945

The gathered skirt and accentuated waist of this dress is an early form of the "New Look" adopted after World War II. The detachable capelet gave the wearer the option of going strapless, a mode first introduced by Paris-based American designer Mainbocher in 1934.

Gift of Mrs. Sidney J. Besthoff, Jr.
Worn by the donor's daughter

LSM #1971.044.11a-b


Tuxedo
Kahn Tailoring Co., Indianapolis
ca. 1945

Midnight blue was introduced as an alternative color for formal menswear in the early 1930s, as it was felt to look better under electric lights. Although the double-breasted jacket had been worn for a few years, it became increasingly popular in the 1940s.

Gift of Mrs. Sue Turner
Worn by Louis C. Wilbert, the donor's brother
LSM #1994.022.2a-b

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