Vintage Thierry Mugler Black and White Evening Dress. 1990s.

Detail: This dress encapsulates all that is unique in Thierry Mugler's designs. The construction through-out is impeccable, having been designed as a wrap dress; fastening with five press studs to the front bust-line. The contrast of black and white is reminiscent of Cecil Beaton's costume designs for the horse racing scene in 'My Fair Lady', although the dress silhouette is clearly inspired by Dior's new-look. The neckline is cut to flatter without overly exposing. The ingeneous belt is constructed as a continuation of the halterneck strap which is then wrapped under the arm, crossed around the back and tied to the front. The white arrow tips to the belt add a little more drama to the piece. The gathered pleats to the waistline provide additional volume to the fabric that then cascades down into the asymmetrical hem-line. 

Period: Early 1990s

Colour: Black & White

Fabric: 100% medium weight textured Cotton 

Sizing: Waist 26-28". Length - Front neckline to hemline 38", Back neckline to hemline 58". Bustline to waist 10.5".

Condition: Excellent / Near Perfect

Origin: Paris

Care: Dry Clean

Vintage Thierry Mugler Black and White Evening Dress. 1990s.

1980s: Designer labels defined the 80s, where a new breed of urban capitalist emerged. Dedicated to money, status and all the trappings of conspicuous consumption, Thatcher encouraged a "shop till you drop" mentality. Big hair and equally big shoulders drove the 'executive look' which had first found expression in the 70s to then mature into what became known as 'power dressing'. The style was masculine, strong and aggressive with feminizing short skirts. Glamour was reserved for the evenings where frills in the early 80s gave way to overtly body-conscious silhouettes that engaged skimpy dresses in lycra and leather with lots of toned flesh and teetering heels.