Ball gown, Worth, ca. 1905. Stiff, heavy velvets and dense satins had waned in popularity by the time of this design. Here, a more flexible, lighter-weight velvet provides the fluid backdrop for embellishment, allowing the fabric to flow with the heavier silver lace and looped chenille. A popular sleeve treatment during this period combines shoulder strap with loose decorative flounce, revealing upper arm. Museum of the City of New York
