Suit

I.M. Bagedonow|Jean Dessès

1953 · wool · Costume Institute

Jean Dessés originally travelled to Paris from Egypt to study law and diplomacy; however, he soon discovered that his true passion was designing. He opened his own couture house in Paris in 1937 and became known for his characteristic twists and gathers which he magically executed on a variety of fabrics. Considered his best work are his evening dresses of chiffon, which have the appearance of classical sculpture. He favored ombré fabrics and colors other than black, such as Wedgwood blue, old rose, taupe, eggplant, green, brown, pale grays, faint pinks, and whites. This suit from 1953 is unique, most notably in the construction of the skirt. The draping of the front panel is consistent with the designer's technique and is typical of the period. While the suit is well-tailored to the silhouette, the draping at the front panel adds emphasis to the waist.

Artist

I.M. Bagedonow|Jean Dessès

Date

1953

Medium

wool

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 Mary Dorward, 1956