Main Index >
News & Features >
Auction
of Gowns > Catalogue >
Lot 15
Lot 15
1960s - Douglas Darnell |
<<PREVIOUS LOT |
NEXT LOT>>
A shimmering stage ensemble by Douglas Darnell
comprising: a bias cut gown of pink silk chiffon encrusted with candy pink
iridescent sequins, the asymmetrical bodice diagonally applied with five strands
of imitation pearls graduating in size from the single shoulder strap, the apex
of the strap with an elaborate embellishment of Swarovski aurora borealis fancy
and rose crystals and imitation seed pearls encircling strands of imitation
pearls terminating in aurora borealis crystals, the lower skirt and flowing
train lined in silver silk tissue; and matching voluminous sleeveless coat with
flowing train, embroidered overall with candy pink iridescent sequins, the edges
and caped collar trimmed with a deep border of pink ostrich feathers, lined in
silver silk tissue; and a pair of corresponding stiletto heeled sandals
customised by Darnell, the thin straps decorated with candy pink iridescent
sequins; accompanied by an album Shirley Bassey 25th Anniversary, United
Artists, 1978
Weight of gown: approx. 2.5kg.
In an interview for the BBC Wales television programme I Am What I Am, 1994,
Dame Shirley states that she wore this gown when singing for President John F.
Kennedy. She had been invited to Washington to sing for the President at his
inauguration celebrations in January, 1963.
The album illustrated, Shirley Bassey's 25th Anniversary - 40 Greatest Hits,
features Dame Shirley wearing this gown on the cover. The gown also features on
at least three other albums released in the 1970s, including: The Best Of
Shirley Bassey; Shirley Bassey - Super Hits and Greatest Hits. Dame Shirley is
also photographed wearing this stage ensemble during a concert at the Royal
Albert Hall, 1973.
Darnell commented that this ensemble is one of the only outfits in the
collection that has not been reworked or altered in any way over the years.
£5,000
Images displayed with kind permission of Christies Images Ltd. © 2002
)
)