Dress

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 dress of wool jersey is an excellent example of the designer's draping technique. The bodice of the dress is gathered to the right hip while the skirt of the dress is gathered to the left creating a flattering, slimming effect. An interesting accent is the integral pocket at the upper right corner of the bodice and at the left hip.