Madeleine Vionnet

About this book

Famous for the "bias cut " Madeleine Vionnets sophisticated approach to couture remains a pervasive influence today. Eschewing artificial and restrictive padding and stiffening she liberated the female form with designs that integrated movement and comfort into womens fashion. She also championed unusual fabrics that were luxurious and sensual yet simple and modernchiffon silk crpe de chine gabardine and satin. Her most revolutionary creationsthe handkerchief dress cowl neck and halter topcling to and seamlessly move with the wearer. Vionnets principles of elegance movement architectural form and timeless style continue to inform contemporary fashion. This lavishly illustrated book showcases Vionnets daringly original designs worn by 80 internationally famous models photographed especially for this book alongside original patterns and archival images by such icons as Horst and Steichen.