Designer Gown (Ghio, 1984) TB RE HM AM

Designer Gown is an elegant tall bearded iris introduced by Joseph Ghio in 1984, growing to about 34 inches and blooming early to midseason with reported rebloom in favorable climates. The standards are soft pink orchid, rising above light pink falls that deepen slightly at the hafts, while a bright tangerine beard adds warmth at the center of the bloom. Bred from a complex lineage culminating in a cross with the famous pink iris Beverly Sills, this variety showcases the refined pastel tones and classic form that made Ghio irises so beloved. As a historic iris introduced before 1994, Designer Gown represents an important era of modern tall bearded breeding. It earned both the Honorable Mention and Award of Merit and remains a favorite among collectors of classic pink irises. Rebloom has been reported in California, Texas, and Washington.