Artwork

Robe à bretelles à motif foral rose

Robe à bretelles à motif foral rose, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1957
Robe à bretelles à motif foral rose, by Marie-Louise Carven, 1957

Robe à bretelles à motif foral rose is a drawing by Marie-Louise Carven. It dates from 1957 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.

About this work

Overview

Robe à bretelles à motif floral rose is a fashion design sketch created by Marie-Louise Carven around 1957. The piece features a sleeveless, suspender-style dress with a prominent floral pattern, characterized by large pink flowers on a green background.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a woman wearing the described dress, depicted in a relaxed, sideways pose. The design embodies Carven's approach to fashion, emphasizing lightweight, flowing fabrics and petite-friendly silhouettes.

Technique & Style

The sketch showcases quick, simple lines, contrasting with the suggested softness and fluidity of the dress. The overall aesthetic reflects Carven's penchant for effortless, feminine design.

History & Provenance

Created in the late 1950s, the sketch is part of the Museum of Ethnography's collection. It bears handwritten notations ('Robe à bretelles', 'Toile') and Carven's signature.

Context

This work sits within the context of Carven's pioneering role in Parisian prêt-à-porter and her focus on petite women's fashion, utilizing materials like lace and gingham.

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.