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2009.2.6a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
2009.2.6a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Gray and Gold Gown with Geometric Designs
2009.2.6a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
2009.2.6a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

Gray and Gold Gown with Geometric Designs

Artifact ID2009.2.6 a
Object Type Gown, Evening
Designer (American, 1943 - 2013)
Date ca.1976
Medium fabric, chiffon, thread, metal
DimensionsOverall H 59 in x W 15 1/2 in (149.9 cm x 39.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionA floor-length gray dress with vertical gold flecks throughout, has long balloon sleeves, a high neckline, and a pattern of diagonal pink and purple lines in horizontal rows throughout. A large bow made of the same material is tied at the neckline.
Historical NoteBetty Ford wore this dress during her time as First Lady, including to a reciprocal reception with President William R. Tolbert of Liberia on September 22, 1976, and a concert by actress and signer Helen Reddy in Washington, DC, on March 30, 1976. Designer Albert Capraro described the dress as violet lurex tucked evening gown. It can be worn with a violet quilted jacket. He suggested that it be worn with an amethyst necklace.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteFirst Lady Betty Ford donated the item to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in 2009.
Credit LineGift of First Lady Betty Ford
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesArtifacts Relating to the Family of Gerald and Betty Ford (74627970)
Use Restriction Status Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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