Ensemble
Jean Dessés originally travelled to Paris from Egypt to study law and diplomacy; however, he soon discovered that his true passion was designing. He opened his own couture house in Paris in 1937 and became known for his characteristic twists and gathers which he magically executed on a variety of fabrics. Considered his best work are his evening dresses of chiffon, which have the appearance of classical sculpture. He favored ombré fabrics and colors other than black, such as Wedgwood blue, old rose, taupe, eggplant, green, brown, pale grays, faint pinks, and whites.
The treatment of the jacket and the dress, which create this ensemble, has been precisely executed down to the finest detail. The flattering fit of the jacket and cut of the sleeves is enhanced by the lining, which harmoniously matches the dress. The plaid silk taffeta dress is perfect for the period, with the inclusion of the tie collar, cap sleeves and full pleated skirt.
The treatment of the jacket and the dress, which create this ensemble, has been precisely executed down to the finest detail. The flattering fit of the jacket and cut of the sleeves is enhanced by the lining, which harmoniously matches the dress. The plaid silk taffeta dress is perfect for the period, with the inclusion of the tie collar, cap sleeves and full pleated skirt.
Artwork Details
- Title: Ensemble
- Designer: (a, b) Jean Dessès (French (born Egypt), Alexandria 1904–1970 Athens)
- Designer: (c) Hattie Carnegie (American (born Austria), Vienna 1889–1956 New York)
- Date: ca. 1955
- Culture: French
- Medium: wool, silk
- Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. R. L. Gilpatric, 1960
- Object Number: 2009.300.280a–c
- Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute
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Jean Dessès
ca. 1950
Jean Dessès
1953
Jean Dessès
1949
Jean Dessès
early 1950s
Jean Dessès
1949
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