Ensemble

The Costume Institute collects works by the American designer Calvin Klein, whose clean minimalism defined the aesthetic of the end of the twentieth century. This strapless dress with a cut-out bodice and stole, designed by Zack Carr, creative director of the house for almost three decades, heralds the minimalism of the 1990s in its sensuous simplicity. At the same time, it gazes back at previous decades such as the 1970s, when Halston created a luxurious minimalism for the urban woman. Carr was known for his deep knowledge of fashion history and often referred to historical examples whilst modernizing the shape. This dress is an excellent example of the ingenuity and modernity of American fashion design.