Contributed by Maine Historical Society
Description
In September 1969, Henrietta LaRou (1921-2015) wore this one-piece dress and coordinating jacket as a mother-of-the-bride ensemble to her daughter Cynthia’s wedding. The nylon champagne-colored “blouse” includes a slight peplum ruffle at the waist, giving the illusion of separates. The collarless, braid trimmed jacket evokes Coco Chanel’s famous "Chanel jacket," introduced in the 1940s.
The “skirt” and coordinating jacket seen here are constructed from a metallic acetate fabric. LaRou purchased this ensemble from Martha McLean’s Specialty Shop in Portland. Martha McLean (1917-2010) and her husband Sandy operated the boutique on Congress Street from 1965 to 1983. The store provided sophisticated, ready-to-wear garments for its clientele.
About This Item
- Title: Mother-of-the-Bride ensemble, South Portland, ca. 1969
- Creation Date: circa 1969
- Subject Date: circa 1969
- Location: Portland, Cumberland County, ME
- Media: polyester, nylon, acetate, metal
- Local Code: 1993.300.1196
- Collection: Costume collection
- Object Type: Physical Object
Cross Reference Searches
Standardized Subject Headings
- Clothing and dress
- Fashion
- Mothers and daughters
- Wedding costume
- Weddings--Maine
- Women's clothing--20th century
People
Other Keywords
For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website
This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. No Permission is required to use the low-resolution watermarked image for educational use, or as allowed by the applicable copyright. For all other uses, permission is required.
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