Dress

Madame Grès (Germaine Émilie Krebs)

1979 · silk · Costume Institute

A number of Mrs. Kempner's dresses that are simple in silhouette have dramatic treatments at the neckline and sleeves. Whether a cascade of ruffles or the large pouf of a gigot sleeve, the concentration of sculptural elements at her neckline and shoulders suggests Mrs. Kempner's preference for styles that framed or brought attention to the head and face. The gown by Mme Grès has a single loop of taffeta extruding one shoulder. While it is ornamental, the puff is not applied but is an integral extension of the pattern piece that forms the body of the gown.

Artist

Madame Grès (Germaine Émilie Krebs)

Date

1979

Medium

silk

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Thomas L. Kempner, 2006