Lauren Bacall: The Look traces the development of Bacall’s distinctive personal style and celebrates her lasting influence. Between 1968 and 1986, Bacall donated more than 700 garments and accessories to The Museum at FIT. Her gifts to the museum were the inspiration for the exhibition, which features selected garments alongside photographs, magazine features, and archival footage.
Bacall’s love of fashion—and her unique sense of style— were evident throughout her life. Her look, which she described as “studied carelessness,” accentuated the cool confidence she exhibited both on-screen and off. It was a powerful combination of individuality, audacity, and glamour that continues to inspire.
Reminiscent of a 1920s beaded dress, this cunning evening ensemble consists of a pair of shorts and a camisole tunic. Bacall wore this ensemble to an after-party for the opening of her hit musical, Applause (1970), for which she would later win a Tony Award.
Yves Saint Laurent, ensemble (tunic and shorts). Silk organza, sequins, beads, Fall 1969, France. Gift of Lauren Bacall.
The close fit and elongated silhouette of this couture evening dress accentuated Bacall’s statuesque physique. In motion, the ostrich feathers add graceful dynamism to an otherwise understated design. Marc Bohan’s combination of restraint and subtle flair perfectly conveyed the effortless sophistication for which Bacall was known.
Christian Dior by Marc Bohan. Evening dress. Silk jersey, ostrich feathers, metal, silk organza, sequins, beads, Fall 1968, France. Gift of Lauren Bacall.
“Cardine” was one of several fabrics developed by Pierre Cardin during the 1960s. Once molded, it could be crushed, washed, and even burned without losing its shape. Bacall endorsed these qualities, proclaiming, “Today’s well dressed woman can travel with her dress in a paper bag if it’s made of Cardine.”
Pierre Cardin, dress, Dynel (Cardine), Fall 1968, France.
Gift of Lauren Bacall.
This trouser ensemble has an easy, relaxed fit in contrast to the sharp tailoring of the pantsuits Bacall wore during the 1940s. Bacall often favored menswear-inspired garments.
Emanuel Ungaro, trouser ensemble, silk damask, circa 1973, France. Gift of Lauren Bacall.
Norman Norell was known for designs that catered to the New York woman, blending practicality with discreet glamour. A client could wear his modest “subway” coat on the train without attracting undue attention. Upon arriving at her destination, she could remove it to reveal a shimmering sequined lining and matching sheath dress.
Traina-Norell (Norman Norell), “Subway” coat and dress ensemble, camel cashmere, silk jersey, sequins, circa 1956, USA. Gift of Lauren Bacall.
This vivid pink ensemble was worn by Bacall in the film Sex and the Single Girl (1964). The beautifully set rhinestone buttons add a touch of glamour and are repeated on the back of the sleeveless blouse. Bacall admired Norman Norell’s precise tailoring and his use of couture fabrics and techniques.
Norman Norell Coat. Wool, rhinestones. 1964, USA. Gift of Lauren Bacall.
