The piece which I have decided to focus on is the Christian Dior, Venus dress. This dress has become an icon of beauty and refinement as it has aged. The light pink, and sea foam green hues evoke an image which is reminiscent of a pearl. This is purposeful. The dress is named after “Venus” and it’s water related color palette is an homage to her birth out of the sea. These colors are most prevalent in the painting by Sandro Botticelli, “The birth of Venus”. The dress is quite different to other versions of the same gown in that it is much smaller than most. It’s shorter skirt makes one think it was designed for a child. The color pinks constant connection to girlhood and youth also helps enforce this idea. Although this may not be the case I cannot help but feel it is a “lesser” version of the larger version. None the less, the exquisite beading and sculpting makes for a stunning spectacle. This dress and it’s counterpart, the “junon” dress have been referenced by many designers through the years. Zuhair Murad being one of the many. Another designer who has referenced the gowns is Susan Hilferty. Hilferty is responsible for all of the clothing produced and designed for the Musical, Wicked. The main character, Glinda wears what Hilferty calls “the bubble dress”. Hilferty has changed the hues to an aqua to resemble the sky one witch the character travels and is connected to. Hilferty also references the Venus dress in the characters act 2 costume, “the engagement dress” it is interesting to see the way that modern designers have in some cases payed homage to the notorious pieces, and in others just ripped them off. Certain pieces hold a strong connection to society. Sometimes for their commentary on the culture of the time period, sometimes for their connection to a celebrity, and other times for their innovative design and technique. No matter what the reason, garments are able to do far more than just make a person look and feel good. They can change views, teach, and evolve with time.
