Madame Bruyere: 1930s French Couture in the U.S.

1930's Dress from Bruyere Couture of Paris

This 1930's dress was designed by a French woman who had formed her own couture house in about 1929.  Madame Bruyer (1881 – 1961) was raised in rural France, moving into Paris when she grew older.  As a young woman she worked for several known couture houses, Lanvin being the most famous. 

1930's Evening Gown: Grecian Drapery in Mint Chiffon

In the late 1930's the softer silhouette retained a Grecian style for many evening style.  This gown is probably a silk charmeuse.  It gathers up the center front into a narrow placket and skirt fullness is released at the end of that placket.  The draped sleeves have a bit of fullness to give her shoulders fashionable width.

I don't have the date or source, this picture is from an undated fashion scrapbook.

Turn Around to See the Back View: early 1930's Fashion

Fashion during the 1930's was cut with diagonal bias seam lines to be smooth and slinky. The back view of a dress was often its best feature.  Let's take a look at some inspiring back views in these wonderful fashion illustrations.