Sleeveless Red Dévoré Velvet Evening Dress, House of Worth, ca. 1926 – Crystal Beading & Wrap Skirt

House of Worth Couture & Provenance

This sleeveless red dévoré velvet evening dress, created around 1926 by the renowned House of Worth, is an exceptional example of late‑flapper‑era luxury. Designed under the direction of Charles Frederick Worth’s historic couture house, the gown embodies the refined glamour and sculptural elegance associated with high Parisian fashion of the 1920s.

The dress comes from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, gifted by Mrs. Robert S. Kilborne in 1958, underscoring its cultural and historical significance. Museum‑provenance Worth gowns of this calibre are exceedingly rare on the market.

Construction & Materials

The gown features a deep V‑neckline and a softly draped blouson bodice, richly decorated with crystal beads and rhinestones that shimmer against the red velvet. The silhouette follows the classic dropped waist of the period, flowing into a full wrap skirt with long side streamers that move beautifully with the wearer.

At the hip, a gathered sash is adorned with pink silk and metallic gold flowers, adding a couture‑level decorative accent. Beneath the velvet layer lies an attached silk underdress, typical of Worth’s meticulous construction.

The dévoré technique — burnout velvet revealing sheer motifs — adds depth, texture, and visual richness, making this piece a striking example of 1920s couture evening wear.

Condition

Condition is very good, with a few age‑appropriate flaws:

• some bead losses

• tears and repairs to the underdress bodice

• minor wear consistent with its age

Decorative items shown in photographs are not included.

Historical Context & Fashion Significance

This rare and museum‑worthy example of House of Worth craftsmanship reflects the glamour of the Jazz Age, when couture houses embraced fluid silhouettes, luxurious textiles, and sparkling embellishment. For collectors of couture, textile historians, and admirers of 1920s fashion, this gown represents an extraordinary acquisition.

Measurements

• Bust: approx. 36"

• Waist: approx. 39"

• Front length: approx. 45.5"

• Back length: approx. 55"

Other Evening Dresses from the 1920s

• 1926 Embroidered Lamé Evening Dress
  https://antique-gown.com/collections/1920-1929-dresses/products/1926-embroidered-lame-evening-dress-america-antique-flapper-dress-charleston-dress-jazz-era-dress

• 1928 Evening Dress
  https://antique-gown.com/collections/1920-1929-dresses/products/1928-evening-dress-antique-dress-antiue-gown-ball-gown-flapper-dress-charleston-dress-jazz-era-dress-antikes-kleid