Dress, formal length, champagne color silk chiffon. Bodice is decorated with silver crystals and beads, concentrated at waistline and gradually diminishing over the bodice. Chiffon wrap-around stole neckline with 48-inch tails. Long chiffon sleeves with concentration of crystals and beads at wrists. Center-back zipper. Spaghetti straps at shoulder support bodice lining. Empire waistline has a fully-lined quarter-circle chiffon skirt.
Norma purchased the gown at Seattle's Fredrick Nelson Department Store. She and her mother shopped there when they were poor, but were only able to look then. As her career progressed, she needed fine gowns such as this for concerts and solos on the Lawrence Welk Show. She enjoyed returning to Seattle to buy things that she once was only able to admire. This dress was worn by Norma during the early 1970s for her featured solos on the Lawrence Welk Show. Norma Zimmer performed on the Lawrence Welk Show for several years before being officially named the "Champagne Lady" in 1962. Norma is still known today as the "Champagne Lady."
Donor: | Norma Zimmer |
Circa: | 1970s |
Accession: | 1994.12.01 |
Inventory: | 1023 |