Sequin and net crinoline skirted gown by Anne Fogarty, 1952

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Sequin and net crinoline skirted gown by Anne Fogarty, 1952

This glamorous evening gown by Anne Fogarty most likely uses cellulose acetate sequins. Mylar, a polyester film, was invented in 1952 and was soon added to sequins to improve their durability. Previously, acetate sequins were sensitive to heat and water, rendering them unwashable and posing problems for modern-day fashion conservators.

Floor-length, strapless, full-skirted evening gown made of gold fully sequined fabric.

Details

Anne Fogarty

Gold sequined net evening gown

1952, USA

The Museum at FIT, 88.75.1

Gift of Jean Eddy

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Crystals, rhinestones, sequins, & beads

Fashion has used applied embellishments for centuries, using shiny facets and the movement of dangling pieces, such as beads and crystals, to draw the eye. Sequins are often made of plastic, though environmentally conscious designers have experimented with seaweed-based sequins, to maximize glamour while minimizing the ecological impact.