Jacques Doucet Sheer Lace and Cotton Blouse, ca. 1910. Label: Doucet, 21. Rue De La Paix, Paris. The blouse is a Haute Couture blouse. Bodice is made of cream lace and cotton with a stand collar, dolman sleeves with a buttoned cotton cuff and a center front decorative row of covered buttons. An asymmetrical net ruffle extends down the left front and the bodice closes down the center back with hooks and eyes. The interior shear lining is gathered into a wide internal waistband. The exterior of the bodice is in very good condition. The underarms of the sheer lining show signs of damage from wear and sweat. The white linen skirt ist part of the lot. Very good condition. A few little stains. The decoration (incl. belt) is not included.
As a connoisseur of art, Jacques Doucet admitted he merely designed clothing to finance his true passion of art collecting. Nonetheless, Doucet was a world-renowned designer who dressed members of elite society, royalty and actresses. The House of Doucet was originally founded by Jacque’s parents in 1817 and specialized in women's lingerie and laces. In the 1870s, Jacques Doucet inherited the family business, expanding the label with the addition of a couture department that became known for extravagant gowns and tailored suits. Doucet’s taste for art resulted in meticulous quality, unusual color combinations and a reappropriation of artistic elements and motifs. The House of Doucet was one of the most highly regarded couturiers throughout the Belle Époque and into the first quarter of the 20th century and was home to both Madeleine Vionnet and Paul Poiret before they began their own labels.
Bust: ~ 84 cm
Waist: ~ 56 cm
Length Blouse: ~ 37 cm
Length Skirt: ~ 100 cm