Dress

Madame Alix Grès' career spanned five decades and throughout them all she excelled in her ability to manipulate fabric and use its innate characteristics to enhance her designs. Grès introduced her classically influenced, body-skimming gowns in silk jersey in the 1930s and returned to that source again and again, reworking and refining its interpretation. Her Winter 1977 collection illustrates how she accomplished one such transformation, adapting her signature evening gown style to day wear. By shortening the design to street length, Grès reduced the weight of the skirt, allowing it more freedom of motion. The dense bodice pleats fall from a pair of trademark cutouts in the upper bodice, adding visual interest and a sense of irreverence.