'Smala'

Executed in black lines on a light beige background with a subtle darker beige accent, the drawing showcases a simple, elegant style characterized by clean lines and minimal detailing, reflective of Carven's aesthetic.

Created in 1949 by Marie-Louise Carven, a pioneering couturier who introduced prêt-à-porter lines and innovated with the patented push-up bra. The work is now held in the Museum of Ethnography.

Smala reflects the post-war fashion landscape where designers like Carven were influencing ready-to-wear markets with designs tailored for the modern, petite woman, emphasizing comfort and elegance.

As part of Carven's oeuvre, Smala contributes to the historical narrative of mid-20th-century fashion innovation, particularly in the evolution of accessible, high-fashion designs for a broader demographic.