Suit

Jacques Griffe began his career in fashion apprenticing for a tailor in his hometown of Carcassonne, France. He then went to work for a couturier, Mirra, in Toulouse, who followed the Paris collections. After fulfilling his military service, he went to work with Vionnet from 1936-1939, as a cutter, and it was here that he perfected the technique of draping and executing design ideas on a small mannequin. In 1942, he opened his own house in Paris in the rue Gaillon, later moving to 29, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. After Molyneux's retirement in 1950, Griffe moved into his rooms at 5, rue Royale. Griffe is remembered as a master in draping and cut and understanding the relationship between the fabric and the body.

This day suit is an excellent example of Griffe's technique and ability to execute a design to fit the body perfectly. Extremely form fitting, the cut of the jacket is flattering, with its slight peplum at the waist and piping accent below the collar. His manipulation of the wool fabric is very impressive and shows the high level of skill required for each of his designs.