Hat

Madame Suzy

1939 · silk · Costume Institute

French milliers have long been regarded for their high standards in the design and trimming of women's hats. A hat like this example, from a prominent Parisian designer of the 1930s, would have been a prized commodity for American women. The skillfully applied jewel-tone ribbons and the refined quality of the delicate veiling are indicative of the materials and techniques used in French millinery ateliers such as Madame Suzy's. However, the late 1930s marked a turning point for the industry. War interupted fashion production in Paris the year after this hat was made and allowed for American designers to gain recognition in the 1940s.

Artist

Madame Suzy

Date

1939

Medium

silk

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. R. A. Bernatschke, 1955