1950s

Geneviéve

Geneviéve is based in a vintage dress from 1956. This sheer, cotton candy pink, flocked organza dress reflects the turn towards ultra feminine silhouettes that are reminiscent of clothing for little girls. This trend was established as society wished to reclaim the strict gender roles prevalent prior to WWII. With women taking on jobs traditionally held by men during the war, society wanted women to return to the roles of wives and mothers. Fashion designers lead the way by offering silhouettes of exaggerated femininity. Geneviéve is an excellent example of glorified womanhood.

Geneviéve is a light, frothy dress with magnficient details. The bodice front features double French darts at the side seam and a self collar. The skirt has sixteen pleats at the center front to increase its fullness. There are 28 decorative buttons stitched down the center front of bodice and skirt. The sleeves are full as they are gathered at the armhole and at the 1 1/2" cuff. The Geneviéve is stitched in entirely with French seams.

White taffeta slip sold separately.

Dry clean only.

Dress: $200

Geneviéve's white taffeta slip was based on a vintage pattern from 1955. The slip itself is not full. It is intended to be worn in between the dress and a crinoline. The three tiers of ruffles are designed to accommodate the volume created by the crinoline. The bodice of the slip is princess lined and has a dropped albeit fitted waist. The Geneviéve slip has a zipper at the side.

Slip: $140