Collection Online

Evening dress
1939 {spring-summer 1939}

Medium
silk

Measurements
126.0 cm (centre back) 30.5 cm (waist, flat)

Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Mrs Krystyna Campbell-Pretty in memory of Mr Harold Campbell-Pretty, 2015
© Grès, Paris

Gallery location
Not on display

 

About this work

Formally trained as a sculptor, Madame Grès began producing high-fashion clothing in the early 1930s, winning first prize for haute couture at the Universal Exhibition in 1937 under her label Alix. Over the course of her extensive career, Grès perfected the art of pleating and draping, building from the simplicity and purity of Grecian classicism to more avant-garde expressions in her later years. This early example utilises metres of silk to create a self-supporting and dramatic form-fitting gown.

Artwork Details

Place/s of Execution
France

Accession Number
2015.580

Department
International Fashion and Textiles

This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of Professor AGL Shaw AO Bequest

Physical description
Evening dress in yellow silk jersey. Pleated draped bodice with full-length skirt.