Artwork

Laos

Laos, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1959
Laos, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1959

Laos is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1959 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Laos is a fashion design sketch created by French couturier Marie-Louise Carven around 1959. The piece is now part of the Museum of Ethnography’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch depicts a woman wearing a light gray, above-knee-length coat with distinctive brown cuffs and pockets. A simplified line drawing alongside illustrates the coat’s back cut. The term 'Laos' is handwritten, possibly indicating the design’s name or a contextual note.

Technique & Style

Executed in a quick, preliminary style, the sketch conveys an initial design idea. Characteristic of Carven’s approach, the coat design emphasizes lightweight, practical elements suited for petite women.

History & Provenance

Created by Marie-Louise Carven, founder of the Carven fashion house (established in 1945), Laos reflects her pioneering work in prêt-à-porter among Parisian couturiers. The sketch is now held in the Museum of Ethnography.

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.