Dinner dress

Madeleine Vionnet

1937 · silk · Costume Institute

Different patterns of lace cut and stitched together in carefully graduated scallop shapes establish the fit of bodice and skirt. Arcs of lace allow Vionnet complete control over shaping, while seeming to be merely decorative crescents. The piecing of tulle and lace also enhances tactility since both serve as sumptuous surface.

Artist

Madeleine Vionnet

Date

1937

Medium

silk

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. John Chambers Hughes, 1958