1948 Madame Grès Haute Couture

Service Description

Now available for free for the Couture Council or for private study by appointment, this original 1948 cocktail gown by Madame Grès offers a rare opportunity to examine true haute couture up close. This is an exceptional experience that’s rarely accessible or available, especially here on California’s Central Coast. Crafted in Rodier silk-rayon jersey, the dress features Grès’s signature pleating, arranged in perfectly parallel waves down the body, and is finished with a satin bow at the shoulder. Built on a boned underbodice, the garment showcases her sculptural approach to construction. Worn by Sophie Malgat and published in L’Officiel (Noël 1948), this piece is also supported by archival materials, including Grès’s original sketch from Palais Galliera. Includes: – Up to 2 hours of supervised access – Handling with gloves – Optional guided walkthrough of construction and details By appointment only. Availability is limited. Due to the fragile nature of this garment, the museum reserves the right to decline or cancel access at its discretion, including if the visit does not align with our educational purpose or terms of use. Inquiries welcome. Price Includes: -Private 2-hour tour and study session in Santa Barbara -Climate-controlled retrieval from secure storage from outside the fire and tsunami zones -Transport and safe handling of the garment -One-on-one access with museum director -Use of gloves and study workspace This is an educational visit. Once your research appointment is approved and booked, it is non-refundable.