Madame Grès Haute Couture Wool Striped Dress with Leather Belt, 1960s

Madame Grès was active as a couturier in Paris from the 1930s through the 1980s. Also known as Alix, she developed minimalist draping techniques executed with sculptural precision. This wool dress, deceptively simple, is comprised of four individual pattern pieces, perfectly cut, gathered and aligned to form an iconic 1960s sheath silhouette with a 18th-century inspired sack-back.

Brown and ivory striped boiled wool day dress with jewel neckline, three-quarter sleeves, and draped back with zipper and three button closure; paired with brown leather thong belt that threads through two front bound holes, around the back body, and ties in the front waist leaving the back dress free and draped.
Label: Grès
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No.: N/A

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 14.75"
Chest: 42"
Waist: 44.5"
Hips: 46"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 37.25"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 27.5"
Belt Length: 78"
Belt Width: 5"

Property from the Collection of a Midwest University

Condition:

The overall condition is very good with some faint red colored soiling to the under arm seam allowances which is unnoticeable on the exterior. The belt is worn but is still wholly intact and in very good condition. The bottom of the three buttons on the back has come loose.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email [email protected] with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

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Madame Grès Haute Couture Wool Striped Dress with Leather Belt, 1960s

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