Artwork
'Lutin'

'Lutin' 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
Overview
Lutin, created in 1951 by French fashion designer Marie-Louise Carven, is a fashion sketch featuring two contrasting female figures side by side, highlighting Carven’s approach to womenswear.
Subject & Meaning
The sketch juxtaposes two outfits: a loose, deep blue dress with short sleeves and pockets (left) and a vibrant, colorful swimsuit with a thin cross-chest strap (right), illustrating Carven’s design range for everyday and leisurewear.
Technique & Style
Executed with quick, flat colors and bold outlines against a plain background, the piece showcases Carven’s emphasis on simplicity and clarity in design visualization, characteristic of her work with lightweight fabrics.
History & Provenance
Part of the Museum of Ethnography’s collection, Lutin reflects Carven’s pioneering role in Parisian couture, notably as an early adopter of prêt-à-porter lines since founding her eponymous house in 1945.
Context
Created during a period of post-war fashion evolution, Lutin situates Carven’s designs within the broader shift towards more accessible, modern womenswear, catering to petite women and emphasizing practicality.
Legacy
While specific impact of Lutin on subsequent designs is not detailed, it represents Carven’s contribution to the development of accessible, petite-friendly fashion, influencing the trajectory of prêt-à-porter in Parisian couture.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
Museum
Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris
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