Television's neckline controversy, for months a matter of minor skirmishes, has become a public controversy with Faye Emerson's announcement on her weekly program that she had been criticized for her neckline, which is one of the lowest and most exuberant on TV. According to Faye's critics, the dresses worn by Faye and many of her sister stars threaten the equilibrium of the U.S. home.
TV networks do not welcome controversy and one studio, which reminds its actors that they are guests in a family living room, keeps a bouquet of roses on hand as standard prop. Whenever an actress turns up with a too-low neckline, the bouquest is pinned on to conceal her bosom. Faye, however, insists that gowns like the one she is wearing in the image below are simply what she always wears at 11 p.m., the time of her show, and has carried her case to her own audience. 95% of those who answered her poll said they would be delighted to have Faye in their living rooms just as she was.
Early-evening neckline clings to Faye's neck as she checks script. This is standard attire for her guest appearances when they take place before 9.
Late-evening neckline plunges downward as Faye makes appearance on own program at 11 p.m. on Mondays. This is a CBS publicity picture.
Rebel Randall, another TV beauty who keeps her shapely shoulders bare, has subordinate role in an ABC show called Auction-Aire. She chose her first name for herself because she has kin in the South.
Maggi McNellis is partial to low-cut gown to establish a feline, sophisticated effect appropriate for her show, Leave it to the girls (NBC).
Arlene Francis is more the giddy, girlish type, runs good natured program called Blind Date, which unites young people who don't know each other, herds them through an evening in New York.
photos and documentation: LIFE Magazine (US) | Zetu Harrys collection
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