Evening dress

House of Lanvin|Jules François Crahay

ca. 1969 · silk · Costume Institute

Jules-François Crahay was the master of flou, or soft dressmaking. This gown is an example of his predilection for "the bias, the loose drapery, and the floating effect." Even the finishing of the shoulder with a satin-ribbon tie is a signature of the designer, known for his "softly knotted" dresses. The House of Lanvin was originally associated with the romantically feminine styles of its eponymous founder, Jeanne Lanvin. With Crahay, the house emphasized designs that sought to enhance the personal style of the client. The flattering effect of this classical gown conforms to the Crahay's belief in garments that express the natural grace and individuality of the wearer over the caprice of the designer.

Artist

House of Lanvin|Jules François Crahay

Date

ca. 1969

Medium

silk

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Eugenie Fromer, 2003