First Lady Nancy Reagan originally wore this evening dress on May 7, 1981, at a state dinner for Zenko Suzuki, the prime minister of Japan, and his wife, Sachi Suzuki. The gown was worn again on the occasion of the first state dinner for the then-new president of Egypt, Hosni Mubarak, and his wife, Suzanne Mubarak, on February 3, 1982. It was donated to the IMA later that year.

One of Mrs. Reagan’s favorite designers, Blass was renowned for his ability to cleverly combine unexpected textures in luxurious eveningwear. By juxtaposing delicate chiffon and lustrous taffeta, both dyed “Reagan” red, Blass created a dress that perfectly captures the popular silhouette of the 1980s. The large pouf sleeves created a dramatic yet slimming effect, while the large bow at the waistline added balance to Mrs. Reagan’s petite frame.