Madame Grès

About

Madame Grès, born Germaine Émilie Krebs in 1903, was a renowned French couturier celebrated for her masterful draping techniques and Grecian-inspired gowns. She initially pursued sculpture, but transitioned to fashion, applying her sculptural skills to fabric. Grès founded her couture house in Paris, initially under the name Alix, before adopting her signature name in 1942. Her designs were favored by icons like Marlene Dietrich and Grace Kelly. Grès' work is characterized by timeless elegance and attention to detail. She pioneered seamless garments and was known for her pleating techniques, which transformed fabric into sculptural forms. Despite financial challenges later in her career, Grès' influence on haute couture remains profound. Her legacy extends beyond her iconic gowns to include rare jewelry pieces, reflecting her minimalist yet refined aesthetic. Grès retired in the late 1980s, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire modern designers.