Drop-dead ballgowns collected from the Victorian/Edwardian era up through the 50’s, including couture finds and bridalwear. Ruching, draping, bustles, chiffon panels, ornamental clasps, sprays of tulle, the catalog is a dazzling tour through the various design trends of eveningwear past, the details presented in proud close-ups with juicy bits of historical context strewn throughout. The Celebrity Wardrobe section features fancy dress from Claudette Colbert, Marlene Dietrich, Liza Minelli, and – yeah! – Xena.