Queens, New York was host to the 1964/65 World’s Fair. On Monday, August 31, 1964 it was delcared “Lucy Day”, honoring TV’s Queen of Comedy. It started with her arrival at 10:00 AM alongside her entourage of husband Gary Morton, mother Dede and friend, gossip columnist Hedda Hopper. Even Lucy’s hair stylist Irma Kusely was there to ensure Ms. Ball looked her best.
After getting caught in the rain, Lucille had to change from her first ensemble into this short sleeve, knee length sheath style dress. The off-white garment features two rows of binding strips at the collar and sleeves as well as two side vents at the bottom hem. It has a silk, champagne color lining and zipper back with hook and eye closure.
Lucy wore the dress for the majoity of the 8-hour day. Including conducting the band who performed “Hey Look Me Over” from her Broadway play Wildcat, during the parade and even while dancing on stage with Gary and Hedda doing her signature ‘twist.’ In the 1980’s Lucy gave the dress to Actors and Others for Animals for their charity auction which is how it ended up in public hands.
