Evening dress
Madeleine Vionnet was a consummate technician, particularly known for her innovative use of the bias cut and the mathematically precise construction of her garments. Minimalist by philosophy, Vionnet's construction details were often executed so as to create decorative effects, obviating the need for any trimming. This dress was made at the end of Vionnet's career and comes full circle with inspiration from Greek drapery, which was one of her primary influences from the very beginning of her career. Although it features a more structured form and has actual jewelry decoration on it, it has bias cowl draping at the back and a fascinating curved seam that bisects the front panel of the dress: sure indications of Vionnet's life-long unparalleled facility with fabric.
Artwork Details
- Title: Evening dress
- Design House: House of Vionnet (French, active 1912–14; 1918–39)
- Designer: Madeleine Vionnet (French, Chilleurs-aux-Bois 1876–1975 Paris)
- Date: 1938
- Culture: French
- Medium: silk, rhinestones
- Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Anthony Wilson, 1963
- Object Number: 2009.300.1306
- Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute
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House of Vionnet
Madeleine Vionnet
1924
House of Vionnet
Madeleine Vionnet
ca. 1936
House of Vionnet
Madeleine Vionnet
fall/winter 1929–30
House of Vionnet
Madeleine Vionnet
early 1930s
House of Vionnet
Madeleine Vionnet
ca. 1931
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