Artwork

'Grisette'

'Grisette', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951
'Grisette', by Marie-Louise Carven, 1951

'Grisette' is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1951 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

The title "Grisette" hints this might be a type of working-class Parisian woman from the 19th century, often linked to fashion and independence.

This sketch shows a woman in a loose, flowing dress with a wide skirt and a hat pulled low over her face. Her arms are crossed, holding the dress at her chest, and her legs are slightly apart. The lines are simple but confident, with soft shading to suggest fabric folds.

The title "Grisette" hints this might be a type of working-class Parisian woman from the 19th century, often linked to fashion and independence. The drawing feels quick, like a snapshot of movement frozen in time.

Look up womenswear to see how clothing styles like this one shaped daily life.

Overview

'Grisette' is a fashion illustration created around 1951 by Marie-Louise Carven, a French designer known for her petite, feminine clothing designs.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a woman in a flowing dress and hat, with the title 'Grisette' referencing a type of independent, fashion-conscious Parisian woman from the 19th century.

Technique & Style

The sketch is characterized by simple, confident lines and soft shading, capturing a sense of movement and fabric texture.

Context

Carven's work, including 'Grisette', reflects her emphasis on ready-to-wear clothing and designs suited to petite women, influencing daily life through its representation of contemporary womenswear.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Marie-Louise Carven

Artist

Marie-Louise Carven

Marie-Louise Carven (31 August 1909 – 8 June 2015), born Carmen de Tommaso, was a French fashion designer who founded the house of Carven in 1945.