Images(4)

Gown, Evening

Object number2023.65.1 a-d

Retailer Saks Fifth Avenue

Date1971

MediumFabric; Linen(?); Gauze(?); Leather; Pleather; Metal

Credit LineGift of Denise Luvara Robinson

DescriptionWhite and gold ball gown with white and gold belt and a pair of white kidskin gloves. Sleeveless white dress with gold-tone leaf-patterned embellishments throughout the dress. Strip of floral gold-tone embellishment down the proper left side of the front of the dress. On the back, the dress has a cape-like feature that snaps to the neckline, and drapes down the back. Gold-tone embellishment along the length of this feature. Belt is made of pleather and is covered in the same gold-tone fabric as the embellishments on the dress. There are three snap outlets and two snap eyelets on the ends of the belt. Gloves are elbow length and have three mother of pearl snap buttons on the underside of the gloves. DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth ((a), flat): 57.125 x 33.25 x 0.75 in. (145.1 x 84.5 x 1.9 cm)
Diameter x Depth ((b), coiled): 4.75 x 1.5 in. (12.1 x 3.8 cm)
MarksTag on the proper left inside of the back of the dress reads "Saks Fifth Avenue" in black text on a white tag.
Historical NotesThis ensemble was worn by Denis Luvara during her presentation at the 1971 Italian Sons and Daughters of American Debutante Ball. Denise became involved with the Italian Sons and Daughters of American Debutante Ball through her aunt Angela “Tootsie” Luvara, who was an officer with the organization. She was married to Denise’s paternal uncle Frank Luvara and was a stylish woman who worked at Gimbel’s and Kaufmann’s as a buyer and saleswoman. She was also encouraged by Sharon Cerrone, wife of Dan Cerrone, to be a debutante. Denise’s family were members of the Southcrest ISDA lodge, and her sister was presented in the Debutante Ball in 1968. She went shopping with her mother and grandmother at Sak’s Fifth Avenue to pick out the dress. They had lunch at the Tik Tok café and discussed how Denise would wear her hair and makeup. The ISDA was comprised of many working class Italian American family and participation in the Debutante Ball was considered an honor for those teenagers who were presented.

Related institution Italian Sons and Daughters of America

Previous owner Denis Luvara

Related person Angela Luvara

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