Dress
Brand
Chanel
(French, founded 1914)
Designer
Gabrielle Chanel
(1883 - 1971)
1926
Silk crepe
Gift of Mrs. Georges Gudefin
Object number80.13.3
The simple silhouette of this dress belies a sophisticated design that incorporates construction details as subtle forms of embellishment. In addition to the shaped yoke and covered buttons, this technique is most evident at the dropped waistline: Chanel created the effect of a waistband by topstitching the box pleats, releasing them into soft gathers on the bodice, for a bloused effect. The precise rows of stitching evoke quilting, one of Chanel's signature motifs. She created several versions of this dress in woven and knit fabrics, using a single color for each one. The style recalls the functionality and uniformity of the attire she would have worn as a young schoolgirl, translated here into the streamlined modernism that defined much of Chanel's daywear.
DescriptionLong sleeve chemise dress in peacock blue silk crepe; modified bateau neck, inset bib front with buttoned mock closure at left, shaped back shoulder yoke, drop waist; knee length skirt with narrow, stitched down box pleats; coutureCollections
Exhibitions
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