Casgliadau Arlein

evening dress; black silk with beaded decoration; black net petticoat extends from hem (both scalloped); band of beads surrounding neckline, and scalloped band of beads surrounding a dropped waist; in addition, there is a large beaded floral design that extends diagonally across the bodice and around the middle of the skirt.

The beads consist of small translucent glass beads which have a silver centre, glass? beads that have a pearlescent finish as well as glass diamanté pieces that are attached to the the fabric with metal fittings (the fitting is placed on the reverse of the fabric and four prongs pierce through the fabric and clasp around the cut glass, holding it in place). The pearlescent beads are strung onto a white thread which is then couched in place, while the small glass beads are stitched on using a black thread.