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.