The Cameo Collection

A tribute to 18th Century Women's attire

Strapless ballgown in silver brocade
with gray velvet cloak
by Arnold Scaasi

Black silk jacquard gown
with velvet bodice and
trim by Mollie Parnis

The rich and elegant 18th Century served as inspiration for The Cameo Collection. This group of costumes, designed by ten of the fashion industry's most popular designers, demonstrates the influence the past has on today's runways.

The collection was commissioned by Merle Norman Cosmetics to be displayed concurrent with the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Eighteenth Century Woman Exhibit in 1981. They asked designers such as Bill Blass, Oscar de la Renta, Mary McFadden, Albert Nippon and others to create historically inspired pieces.

Throughout recorded history a woman's social position has been determined by the way she dressed. Nowhere was this more evident than in 18th and 19th century Europe. To be considered socially acceptable, a lady was expected to be intelligent, appealing and, above all, suitable attired. Then, as now, French fashion set the tone for the rest of Europe.

Equally important was the place a young lady would have in society. This was largely determined by when she was seen and with whom. Nothing enhanced that standing more than an appearance at a court social function. These invitations were hard won and not only assured respectability, but conferred a social cachet coveted by every member of the ruling class. With these designs, each of the participating designers brought his or her own unique style to the task of interpreting 18th century fashion.

Mary McFadden gown of
re-embroidered Lurex lace design
inspired by Marie Antoinette

Blush rose silk tafetta gown by Albert Capraro