Evening dress
Designer
Grès
(French)
1980s
Aubergine matte silk jersey
Gift of Caroline Rennolds Milbank
Object number86.158.1
Madame Grès rendered fluted jersey in three dimensions to create this dramatic, aubergine evening dress, with its full sleeves and covered bodice. By manipulating the ground fabric, Grès created a pattern that, as it undulates and scrolls over and around the back and shoulders, produces a strong chiaroscuro. No figure in French couture used the elements of classicism as completely or as poetically as did Madame Grès.
DescriptionPurple silk jersey Goddess evening gown; high V neck; elbow length sleeve; scroll and shirred shoulder yoke extends into elbow length sleeve, bodice and skirt; center front zipper and snap closing. Matching rouleau tie belt.Collections
Exhibitions