Name/Title
DressEntry/Object ID
2011.11.20Description
Dress worn by Ruth Simmons Michael at her wedding to Harold Michael in 1944. Short-sleeved, knee-length rayon dress. Natural fitted waistline with inverted V insert below bustline. Bias-cut skirt in yellow-on-black floral print. Matching print ruffles at waist and shoulders. Ruth Simmons was the aunt of donor. This is a good example of a wedding dress that is not white, but the choice of a practical bride who would wear this as a "best" dress after her wedding day. This dress was made during World War II when fabric was rationed for the war effort, with wool and silk especially in short supply. Women's fashions featured slimmer lines, shorter hems, and an absence of ruffles in order to conserve fabric.Provenance
Notes
Last Owner: Ruth Simmons Michael