Mary McFadden

Mary McFadden Marii Pleat Gown and Shawl, 1984

The Mary McFadden Spring 1984 Medici Collection was inspired by the Italian Renaissance. Constructed from black poly charmeuse, the top features horizontal Marii pleating at the bodice with a delicate gold pinafore panel design that incorporates heraldic emblems to reference the Medici era of Florentine history. The gold embellishment is Zardozi, an ancient embroidery technique using metal-bound threads, which originated in Persia before being brought to India. McFadden collaborated with associates in India to learn and execute Zardozi. The column skirt features vertical Marii pleating and an Empire waistline. The evening gown is accompanied by a matching shawl. In 1975, McFadden developed her proprietary Marii pleated fabric made from polyester charmeuse, sourced from Australia. The fabric was treated and dyed to specification in Japan and finally finished with a heat pleating process in New York City. 

Dimensions:

Dress:

• Length: 155 cm
• Bust: 39 cm
• Waist: 35 cm
• Hip: 40 cm
• Shoulder to Underarm Drop: 24.5 cm

Sash:

• Circumference: 81 cm